Best Tent Camping near Lake Cumberland

Lake Cumberland, Kentucky provides tent campers with multiple options across state parks, county facilities, and national forest lands. Pulaski County Park in Somerset offers primitive tent sites with lake views and walk-in access from April through October. Hidden Ridge Camping features secluded tent-only sites on 53 acres of wooded land with basic amenities like drinking water and fire rings. For those seeking more isolation, Clifty Campground at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park provides tent campsites with varying levels of privacy, particularly sites 48-50 which are considered the most secluded tent-only spots. Grove Boat-In Campground offers unique tent camping accessible only by water from April to mid-October.

Most tent campgrounds in the Lake Cumberland area provide basic facilities including vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Primitive tent camping areas typically lack electricity and running water, though some sites at Clifty Campground offer water hookups. Surface conditions vary from gravel pads to natural ground, with limited shade at some locations. Backcountry tent camping requires permits in certain areas, particularly in Daniel Boone National Forest. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and high humidity. Spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate temperatures but increased chance of rain.

The tent camping experience around Lake Cumberland features distinctive waterfront opportunities and forested settings. According to reviews, site 49 at Clifty Campground provides the best privacy for tent campers, with one visitor noting, "The privacy of site 49 was worth the lack of electricity and water." Primitive tent sites at Pulaski County Park can become crowded during peak season, particularly near the water. One camper reported leaving early due to noise levels: "There is constant traffic to the water area, some blasting music, and at night kids running around on golf carts non-stop." For those seeking solitude, backcountry tent camping in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area requires more preparation but rewards with peaceful settings and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Best Tent Sites Near Lake Cumberland (24)

    1. Pulaski County Park

    11 Reviews
    Nancy, KY
    12 miles
    Website

    "It has RV sites, tent sites, and shelter houses.. There are several cabins on site. Great  lake views and beach.  Lots to do at PCP."

    "There are hiking trails near the entrance of the camp. There is several different types of camp areas ranging from primitive to cabins."

    2. Hidden Ridge Camping - Tents

    1 Review
    Lake Cumberland, KY
    1 mile
    Website

    $50 - $160 / night

    "We're so excited to have this property on our platform. These sites are spacious and secluded, the perfect spot for your next family adventure. Check out the hiking trails close by!"

    3. Halcombs Landing

    1 Review
    Jamestown, KY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    "Halcombs Landing Recreation area and Boatramp on Rt 127, is past Lake Cumberland State Park outside Jamestown, Ky.

    A nice, picturesque stop off on your travels through the area."

    4. Ryans Camp Ramp

    1 Review
    Albany, KY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    5. Clifty Campground — Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    5 Reviews
    Parkers Lake, KY
    30 miles
    +1 (606) 309-4808

    $28 - $31 / night

    "We looked at the tent site map on the state resort park map and nothing looked GREAT except for Clifty Campground spots 050, 048, and 049 they all look isolated from any of the other sites with 050 being"

    "Each site had a water hook up, standard lantern/trash pole, fire ring, electric box, and was a short walk from the Clifty campground bathroom."

    6. Rockcastle

    2 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-5225

    "The site are well spread out for the most part, the view is very nice if you get to camp on the water, and we were able to find space on a major holiday which was very welcome."

    7. Backcountry Camping

    1 Review
    Oneida, TN
    30 miles
    Website

    $5 - $25 / night

    "We parked at the Twin Arches Loop National Recreation Trail head, then made our way down into the valley to view the two gorgeous and huge arches there."

    8. Tuscarora Glade

    2 Reviews
    Byrdstown, TN
    32 miles

    $15 / night

    "This site is perfect for primitive tent camping and laying back to look at the stars."

    "If you are looking for a great view with plenty of space for tents and hammocks, look no further.  You will not go wrong with booking with this host."

    10. Grove Boat-In Campground

    4 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    "It was dark once I set up but an awesome could helped me with fire wood and had a nice talk around their campfire. Beautiful area. Very busy on labor day weekend!!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Lake Cumberland

505 Reviews of 24 Lake Cumberland Campgrounds



Guide to Lake Cumberland

Tent camping near Lake Cumberland in Kentucky offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Explore Scenic Hiking Trails

  • Hidden Ridge Camping - Tents provides spacious and secluded sites, perfect for families looking to enjoy nearby hiking trails.
  • Little Lick Campground is nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, offering access to various trailheads for hiking and horseback riding.
  • Halcombs Landing features picturesque views and is a great spot for a picnic after a day of exploring the area's trails.

Enjoy Water Activities

  • Ryans Camp Ramp is a convenient spot for boat storage and access to the water, ideal for those looking to spend their days fishing or boating.
  • Wolf Creek Resort Park is located near fishing spots below the dam, making it a popular choice for anglers.
  • Rockcastle offers a boat launch, allowing campers to easily access the water for a day of fun on Lake Cumberland.

Campground Amenities for Comfort

  • Hidden Ridge Camping - Tents is well-equipped with amenities like drinking water, showers, and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Down Yonder Campground is in the process of adding overnight sites and offers a reservable option for those planning ahead.
  • Little Lick Campground features spacious sites with picnic tables, making it a great choice for families and groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lake Cumberland?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lake Cumberland is Pulaski County Park with a 3.6-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Lake Cumberland?

TheDyrt.com has all 24 tent camping locations near Lake Cumberland, with real photos and reviews from campers.