Glamping opportunities near Jamestown, Kentucky center around Lake Cumberland, which covers 65,530 acres with 1,255 miles of shoreline at summer pool. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85°F to 90°F. Most glamping sites operate seasonally from April through October due to the moderate climate, with fall bringing colorful foliage and temperatures in the 60s-70s during the day.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Kendall Campground provides direct access to trout fishing on the Cumberland River below Wolf Creek Dam. "Fish the river for trout, walleye and stripers or go upon the lake for a joy ride," notes Kenny P. "The trout stream is beautiful and you can always see plenty of wildlife."
Hiking trails: Numerous trails of varying difficulty levels surround the camping areas. At Smith Ridge Campground, campers can access the Woodland Trail directly from some sites. "The walking trails around the brooke and campground were easy enough even for someone with limited mobility," according to a Kendall Campground visitor.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. "The beach is great and right next to the marina," notes Thomas R. about Pulaski County Park. Swimming, boating, and fishing are available at most locations, with boat ramps at several sites.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds report regular deer sightings. "We had daily deer visitors at our site and went trout fishing too," shares a reviewer at Kendall Campground. The natural setting creates abundant opportunities for observing local wildlife.
Spacious sites: Alum Ford Campground provides generous spacing between sites. "The trees are mature so there is plenty of shade and lofty space between each lot. We are on a paved site surrounded by gravel picnic table light post and fire ring also with a food storage bin to keep out the bears," reports Rebecca J.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. Waitsboro Campground receives praise for its upkeep: "The bath house was very clean and the showers were hot. Our site was all gravel and level. I think every site has electric and water."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. At General Burnside State Park, visitors reported good coverage, while at Smith Ridge Campground, a reviewer noted "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T."
Terrain considerations: Some campgrounds feature challenging terrain. "The site I was in was on such a steep hill I left early because I was afraid I would break my leg getting in and out of my camper," reports one camper about General Burnside State Park.
Water levels fluctuate: Lake levels can vary significantly throughout the season. "Water is WAY down" in certain periods, noted one visitor to Pulaski County Park. This affects boat ramp accessibility and beach areas at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "The campground sets on a point with woods all the way around. There is plenty of shade with hiking path and a playground for kids," notes Kenny P. about Smith Ridge.
Food options: Some campgrounds offer on-site dining. "The snack shack has great burgers & ice cream for those times you don't want to cook," mentions Paula H. about Kendall Campground, which can be convenient for families with children.
Educational opportunities: The National Fish Hatchery adjacent to Kendall Campground provides learning experiences. "The National Fish Hatchery is beside the campground, along with the Trout Stream, which is a really neat man-made stream and wetland from the hatchery down to the Cumberland River," explains a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Kendall Campground, a reviewer noted: "Stayed on site #1. We had a tent and 2 vehicles and that's about all you could fit on there. Maybe a small camper and tow vehicle would fit."
Power considerations: Electrical issues can occur at certain sites. "Our electrical pole at Site 001 showed reverse polarity, so I had to move to site 004," shares a camper at Alum Ford Campground. Bring surge protectors and be prepared to request a different site if needed.
Dump station availability: Most campgrounds in the area offer dump stations, though not all sites have full hookups. "No sewer or cable but everything else is good," notes Randy M. about Kendall Campground.
