Barren River Lake serves as a hub for cabin and yurt camping near Fountain Run, Kentucky. Located in south-central Kentucky, the lake spans over 10,000 acres with 141 miles of shoreline surrounded by rolling hills and limestone formations. Most campgrounds in this area sit between 500-700 feet elevation, creating moderate temperatures that average 55-85°F during camping season from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from camp: At Edgar Evins State Park Campground, just an hour from Fountain Run, trails offer varied terrain. "The 6 marked trails were easy to find and moderate/strenuous. Plenty of water for your hobby needs and two boat ramps and a marina," notes Shelly S.
Kayaking and paddleboating: The Narrows offers direct water access from many campsites. "B loop has several sites that have direct water access and you can 'park' your boat nearby," explains Shelly S. The campground includes "a small sand beach on site that can be accessed from either loop."
Fishing spots near camp: Several campgrounds offer dedicated fishing amenities. At The Narrows, "a cool feature in the sites is a fish cleaning table as well as fire ring and picnic table," according to Shelly S., making it convenient for anglers to process their catch.
Nature observation and wildlife viewing: Camp areas attract diverse wildlife. At Mammoth Cave Campground, Gloria J. reports that "Deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite! Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!"
What campers like
Spacious, level campsites: Nolin Lake State Park Campground offers "spacious, level sites. The sites are located in a grove of pine trees, which makes for well shaded sites with a pleasant surface of soft pine straw to pitch your tents," according to Christina M.
Waterfront camping options: Many campers appreciate direct lake access. Bill G. from Baileys Point mentions, "We love that our boat can be moored into a cove very near site. Always beautiful views of Barren River Lake."
Clean facilities with amenities: Campers consistently mention facility cleanliness. At Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Ashley U. appreciated the "nice clean site, number 62. It had a fire pit, grill and picnic table," while noting the campground offers "overall a clean park with amenities."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternative accommodations, several parks near Fountain Run offer yurt camping structures. These weatherproof shelters provide a comfortable middle ground between tent and cabin camping, with many featuring electricity and raised platforms.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate April through October. Christina M. notes about Nolin Lake: "We might return here but perhaps would choose to camp during the week or during a less busy time of year" as weekends get crowded during peak season.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly. Laura O. warns that Nolin Lake State Park "books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!"
Site variations and leveling needs: Pay attention to site specifications when booking. At The Narrows Recreation Area, Shelly S. notes "Many of the sites are not level so bring your blocks."
Water access differences: Not all waterfront sites offer the same access. At The Narrows, "A loop has mostly shaded sites, the outer loop has more space between sites. A loop sites do not have direct water access but you can walk down to the beach."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave offers extensive activities. Samantha B. shares, "We did arts and crafts, bingo, trick or treating, watched the golf cart parade, played on several of the different playgrounds, and putt putt golf."
Waterplay options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas. Beth H. mentions Jellystone has "Karst beach is so nice with the wibit (extra cost but worth it). The pools are OK in my opinion."
Consider camping on weekdays: To avoid crowds with young children, timing matters. Christina M. notes at Nolin Lake that "Quiet hours do not start until 11 PM which is not ideal for campers with young children" and that weekends can become "a party spot for locals."
Sand beaches for children: Several lakeside campgrounds feature dedicated swim areas. A camper at The Narrows mentions "there is a nice sand beach for swimming" that's particularly good for kids.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Bowling Green KOA accommodates various RV sizes. Laura H. notes, "The park has nice long pull through spaces" and "The sites were level and clear of obstacles. They left plenty of space for vehicles and rigs."
Power considerations: Check electrical hookup specifications. Gregory G. at Cedars of Lebanon cautions, "To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter."
Navigation challenges: Some parks have tight roads. Ashley U. at Cedars of Lebanon mentions "the only thing that was not ideal were how tight the roads were between campsites but it may have felt that way because we are new to hauling a camper."
Dump station timing: Plan departure times strategically. Beth H. warns about Baileys Point: "Also gets a little crowded at the dump station on the weekends at check our time."
