Lake Cumberland stretches across 65,530 acres with 1,255 miles of shoreline in south-central Kentucky. Water temperatures range from 40°F in winter to 85°F during summer months. Most glamping sites operate seasonally from April through October when overnight temperatures stay above 50°F, allowing for comfortable outdoor sleeping conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Kendall Campground: Located below Wolf Creek Dam, this campground offers access to prime trout fishing spots. "This campground has boat ramp very accessible. The shower house has both showers and stalls but are not kept clean during very busy times," notes a visitor to Pulaski County Park. Another camper mentions, "Fish the river for trout, walleye and stripers or go upon the lake for a joy ride."
Hiking at Great Meadows: The trails around Daniel Boone National Forest provide varied terrain for all skill levels. "The campsites are off to thereselfs and make for great camping with privacy. The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway," shares a visitor to Great Meadows Campground.
Golfing at General Burnside: The park features an 18-hole golf course that attracts visitors throughout the season. "General Burnside SP campground is large and can accommodate most rigs. I stayed here because I wanted to play the on site golf course, which was also well taken care of," reports a camper at General Burnside Island State Park.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Fall Creek Campground offers sites on a peninsula extending into Lake Cumberland. "It has 10 sites that are spread out on kind of a peninsula sticking out in the lake. It is up on a hill, so the walk to lake is a hefty one from some of the sites," explains a reviewer at Fall Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds around Lake Cumberland offer opportunities to spot deer and other wildlife. "We had daily deer visitors at our site and went trout fishing too. The walking trails around the brooke and campground were easy enough even for someone with limited mobility," shares a camper at Kendall Campground.
Convenient amenities: Despite being in natural settings, many sites offer modern facilities. "Not a bad place to stay at all. Pros: tranquil, beautiful, waterfalls at several locations on site, views of the lake from every location and I mean every location, clean, flushing toilets," notes a visitor to Waitsboro Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most Lake Cumberland glamping accommodations close during winter months. "Most sites have electric at the higher numbers but there is a station to fill your tank with drinkable water. The non-water sites are quiet and most are shaded. I will be back this fall," explains a camper at Holmes Bend.
Varied terrain: Some campgrounds feature steep slopes that may be challenging for certain campers. "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 RVer.
Limited cell service: Several areas around Lake Cumberland have spotty connectivity. "The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway," notes a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "The playgrounds are cleaned everyday. Walking around you will find wildlife. Lots of deer and turtles and birds. The beach is great and right next to the marina," mentions a visitor.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safe places for families. "The campground was a little close and crowded the October weekend I was there, but maintained and well staffed," shares a camper.
Kid-friendly food vendors: Some campgrounds feature food stands that appeal to children. "The snack shack has great burgers & ice cream for those times you don't want to cook," reports a visitor to Blue Heron Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many Lake Cumberland campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are big but not level. We put one side of the RV on the pad and the other in the gravel just to be level. Sites are also awkwardly diagonal in places so the back ends get pretty close," explains an RVer.
Hookup availability: Water and electric hookups vary by location and site number. "The sites are level and spacious, also they feel secluded. The ramp is a steep grade as are most of the ramps at this lake. The showers and bathrooms are clean and updated. There is a dump station on site."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "Paved roadways great for biking and walking. Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs."
