Best Glamping near Lake Cumberland in Kentucky

Looking for the perfect glamping experience near Lake Cumberland? Glamping near Lake Cumberland is a great way to travel off the beaten path. Find the right glamping site for you with our user-submitted photos, reviews, and tips. Search nearby glamping or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Glamping Sites Near Lake Cumberland (28)

    Shari  G.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Parkers Lake, KY

    1. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    46 Reviews
    216 Photos
    168 Saves
    Parkers Lake, Kentucky
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Kendall Campground near Jamestown, KY

    2. Kendall Campground

    20 Reviews
    75 Photos
    80 Saves
    Jamestown, Kentucky

    Overview

    Kendall Campground is located at 80 Kendall Road, south of Jamestown, Kentucky, just below Wolf Creek Dam, which forms beautiful Lake Cumberland. Click here for the Lake Cumberland virtual tour.

    Recreation

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. Kendall Campground offers visitors convenient access to a cold water trout stream, making it a popular fishing destination. The stream is well-stocked with rainbow, brook and brown trout. Whispering Pines Trail, located within the campground, is a non-strenuous trail approximately half a mile long.

    Natural Features

    The campground overlooks the river, offering sweeping scenic views. Dense stands of mature hardwoods forest the site, offering scenic views, pleasant shade and wildlife habitat. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, the lake provides varied outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

    Nearby Attractions

    Wolf Creek Dam National Fish Hatchery is within walking distance of the campground. It is open year-round and offers free tours to the public and an excellent Environmental Education Center. Click here for more information. Lake Cumberland State Park is just 6.5 miles from the campground. This beautiful park offers fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mini golf, disc golf and boat rentals. Birders enjoy the park for its exceptional viewing prospects of raptors, songbirds and waterfowl. Grider Hill Marina and Resort is 25 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store. Jamestown Marina & Resort is 25 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store. State Dock Marina is 8 miles away, with boat rentals, snack bar and general store.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $16 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, TN

    3. Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    130 Photos
    33 Saves
    Stearns, Kentucky

    Overview

    Blue Heron Campground is a rustic and spacious campground, situated on the Kentucky side of The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.

    Recreation

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Natural Features

    The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres of both rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, this ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys that are found throughout the park.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just a few miles from the campground is Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway Depot is located about 9 miles away in the town of Stearns, which offers train rides and other educational opportunities for campers. More information can be found online at https://bsfsry.com. Additional attractions include the Daniel Boone National Forest and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, offering additional recreation opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Pulaski County Park near Nancy, KY

    4. Pulaski County Park

    11 Reviews
    46 Photos
    22 Saves
    Nancy, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Lake Cumberland

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    The Dyrt's photo of glamping accommodations at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland near Burnside, KY

    5. Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    9 Reviews
    20 Photos
    67 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    Overview

    Waitsboro Campground is at 500 Waitsboro Road and is situated on beautiful Lake Cumberland in southern Kentucky.Click here for the Lake Cumberland virtual tour.

    Recreation

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. The lake has an abundance of largemouth, smallmouth, white and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye, making it a favorite among anglers. The Black Walnut Nature Trail, located near the lake office, is a self-guided educational trail. The trail is open Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4pm EST.

    Natural Features

    The campground overlooks the main body of the lake, offering sweeping scenic views. Dense stands of mature hardwoods forest the site, offering scenic views, pleasant shade and wildlife habitat. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, the lake provides varied outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

    Nearby Attractions

    General Burnside Island State Park is nearby. It was named after Civil War General Ambrose Burnside, who led patrols along the Cumberland River, circling this 400-acre island to keep watch for Confederate soldiers. Visitors come today to enjoy boating, fishing, golfing and picnicking on Kentucky's only island state park. Burnside Marina is 10 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $16 - $42 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at General Burnside Island State Park Campground near Burnside, KY

    6. General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    22 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Lake Cumberland

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    David's photo of glamping accommodations at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Great Meadows Campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY

    7. Great Meadows Campground

    8 Reviews
    8 Photos
    23 Saves
    Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

    The Great Meadows Campground, located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is developed on both sides of the road. Deer Loop is on the right; Raccoon Loop is on the left. Deer Loop is open year round; but the water is shut off during the winter season. Raccoon Loop is April 1 - November 15. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to Great Meadows Campground. Learn more... View Great Meadows Guide and Map Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs along the Raccoon Loop. Rock Creek is stocked with rainbow trout March - June and September - December.. Campsite availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Trails nearby: Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 37 and Section 38; Mark Branch Trail # 635 and Gobblers Arch Trail # 636.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 - $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) near Nancy, KY

    8. Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

    3 Reviews
    17 Photos
    42 Saves
    Nancy, Kentucky

    Overview

    Fall Creek Campground is located at 1144 New Fall Creek Road, Monticello and is situated along the shores of the vast Lake Cumberland in southern Kentucky.Click here for the Lake Cumberland virtual tour.

    Recreation

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. The lake has an abundance of largemouth, smallmouth, white and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye, making it a favorite among anglers.

    Natural Features

    The campground overlooks the main body of the lake, offering sweeping scenic views. Dense stands of mature hardwoods forest the area, offering pleasant shade and wildlife habitat. Due to the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, the lake provides varied outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Mill Springs Mill Park is just a 15-minute drive from the campground. This historic mill site offers interpretive tours and grinding on the weekends and holidays, picnic sites and a gift shop. Grinding is at 2:00pm Saturday, Sunday and Holidays. Interpretive tours of the mill are given Saturday, Sunday and Holidays during the recreation season.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Hidden Ridge Camping - Glamping Tents near Lake Cumberland, KY

    9. Hidden Ridge Camping - Glamping Tents

    1 Review
    Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

    Immerse yourself in Lake Cumberland's natural beauty and enjoy life's simple pleasures from 53 acres of wooded land near Conley Bottom Resort. Tent camp, glamp, tuck away in an RV site, rent our lodge or just come for live music! Trails throughout the property lead you on adventures to a waterfall, the lake and a stocked fishing pond. Escape the world for a while at Hidden Ridge.

    Looking for a place to park your home-away-from-home? Maybe tent camping is more your thing? Perhaps you like the idea of camping, but not roughing it? Or you just need a big house for an event or lake weekend (or week!)? We’ve got you covered! We have a limited number of sites dispersed throughout our 53 acres, ensuring you are immersed in nature - not neighbors!

    Named for a favorite Willy Porter song, "Moonbeam" is a 12'x14' safari tent on a wooden platform with a roof. Listen to tree frogs while drifting off to sleep on a queen size memory foam bed with soft, dreamy linens. The tent features power, lamps, chairs, and a desk. Outside, enjoy a private fire pit or sit a spell on rocking chairs on the back deck. Our Community Shelter, with a fridge, sink, and coffee maker, and our Bath House with flush toilets and hot showers are a short walk away.

    Moonbeam is secluded, yet close to amenities like the Community Shelter, which provides a a sink, mirror and outdoor shower, as well as useful cooking items: charcoal grill, refrigerator, electric burner, coffee maker, toaster, pots, pans and tongs. We also have a grate system that allows you to cook over the open fire (grates are hanging from a tree near the community fire pit).

    Parking is approximately 200 feet from the tent.

    The main trail to the lake begins right past the shelter, and there are other trails located throughout the property that take you to a natural spring and along the multiple creeks that flow down into Lake Cumberland.

    Guests have the entire tent to themselves, as well as access to our Community Shelter, hiking trails and stocked fishing pond.

    Other things to note

    OUR LAKE ACCESS

    We have one main hiking trail to the lake that starts at the back of the property near the Community Shelter. It will take about 15 minutes to get to the water, where there is a rocky beach to hang out and swim from. Because you are descending (or ascending) a ridge, it is steep in places and may be challenging for small kids and elderly adults.

    Things that will make your experience most enjoyable: Water shoes (not flip flops), floats/lifejackets.

    PLEASE NOTE: During spring and early summer, the water levels are higher and there may be limited beach area.

    NEARBY ACCESS POINTS

    [~ 1.5 miles] A public launch at the end of Highway 2393 (go out of the property and turn left. You will see signs for the ramp about a mile down the road. There is a small parking lot and rocky beach, as well as a ramp into the water.

    [~ 2 miles] Fall Creek Recreation Area. 874 New Fall Creek Rd. There are picnic tables, a playground and a ramp into the water.

    [~ 4 miles] Conley Bottom Marina, 270 Conley Bottom Road. You can rent kayaks, canoes, pontoons and ski boats. There is a store on-site that also sells bait.

    [~5 miles] Old Fall Creek (this is the cove in the back of the main Fall Creek Recreation Area, and there is a different road to access it). Take a right out of the property, right onto 1275, right onto Pete Upchurch Rd, right onto Old Fall Creek Rd. Follow it until it dead ends into the water.

    [~ 30 miles] Pulaski County Park. The park offers a beachy area and various spots for fishing and paddling around. Also great for picnics!

    1200 Highway 3189

    Nancy, KY

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    • Trash

    $75 - $95 / night

    The Dyrt's photo of glamping accommodations at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge near Campbellsville, KY

    10. COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge

    10 Reviews
    20 Photos
    8 Saves
    Campbellsville, Kentucky

    Overview

    Situated along Kentucky's Highland Rim, Smith Ridge Campground is surrounded by forested tracks, rolling meadows and the pristine banks of Green River Lake. Click here for the Green River Lake Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    With 8,000 surface acres of water, the lake is an ideal place for boating. With ten boat ramps located around the shoreline, guests have plenty of room for fishing, jet skiing, wake boarding and more. Three full-service marinas are also located around the lake. Fishing is a popular activity at Green River Lake. Walleye, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, muskie and bluegill are all found in abundance. Hunters enjoy the surrounding land, with various habitats supporting deer, turkey, rabbit, quail, squirrel, dove and waterfowl. There are also miles of trails that wind around the lake and along the shore, affording some of the most scenic views in the region.

    Natural Features

    Green River Lake encompasses a total of some 32,000 acres in the central portion of Kentucky, creating countless recreational activities for visitors.

    Contact Info

    Between 05/12/2023 and 09/10/2023 this location is staffed. Please call (270) 789-2743 to speak with local staff. From 12/15/2022 to 05/11/2023 this location is unstaffed. Please call (270) 465-4463 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Corps of Engineers Visitor Center and the Historical Civil War Atkinson-Griffin Log Cabin are located only a short 13.5 miles from Smith Ridge near the Green River Lake Dam . Several historical attractions and National Parks are located within an hour of Green River Lake, including the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln and Mammoth Cave National Park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Customers who change their dates outside the original reservation date (i.e., different week or month) will incur a $10 change fee. No-Shows are charged a $20.00 plus the first nights use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $36 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews near Lake Cumberland

231 Reviews of 28 Lake Cumberland Campgrounds


  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Jun. 26, 2018

    Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Small and quiet

    The campground has all of the glamping necessities. Water hook-up, electrical, dumping station, clean hot water showers, etc. It's pet friendly and the campground is very clean. The location is excellent for those who love rock climbing (sport and trad), easy and moderate level hiking, white water kayaking, or maybe want to spend a day or two also doing some backcountry camping. There are bears and other curious wildlife so make sure to keep your stuff in the provided bear boxes!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Aug. 10, 2021

    General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    Big park

    Nice park on lake Cumberland. VERY busy in season. Doubt you'd get in without reservations. Bath houses available but we didn't check them out. Not the most level sites, but not too difficult to get leveled out. Would stay here again.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Oct. 30, 2021

    General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    Great Spots in a Great Are

    The spots are very large and paved. They have full hookup available with a gravel side lot that comes with a fire ring. Perfect area in Burnside close to Daniel Boone National Forest and Lake Cumberland. It also has a nice golf course on the grounds if you’re into that!

  • Erin H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Jul. 12, 2016

    Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    Waits Boro Campground

    This place was clean, had several choice spots with water view, and lots of shade! Loved it! Lake Cumberland is the perfect summer rec lake to cool off at. Near Somerset, KY as well for town "stuff!" The best part of this campground are the water sites. Fall asleep to the sound of the gentle lapping of the water!

  • Paul B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Jun. 17, 2022

    General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    Great Campground

    General Burnside SP campground is large and can accommodate most rigs. My site, 14 was smaller than most, but right across from the bathhouse. State Employees kept it meticulously clean and did so each morning around 8am. Some camp sites provided more shade then others. I stayed here because I wanted to the play the on site golf course, which was also well taken care of. Many people camp here also because of the public boat ramp for Lake Cumberland. Seemed also to attract a lot of family reunions. If you are a sightseer, I would definitely recommend visiting Cumberland Falls State Park about 30 minutes away.

  • Whistle P.
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Apr. 17, 2023

    General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    Mostly great with some awkward sites and a racetrack nearby

    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. (Pic for example)

    The bathrooms are clean and laundry is nice. Showers are free and hot.

    There are some awesome hikes nearby in Daniel Boone National Forest. Natural Arch, Yazoo Arch and Yazoo Falls are all worth the drive.

    Lastly, there’s a racetrack across the highway (Lake Cumberland Raceway) and it is LOUD. The race continued from 6pm-1am. Highly recommend you check their schedule before booking here.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kendall Campground
    Aug. 21, 2017

    Kendall Campground

    Awesome area

    Kendall Rec Area is an all in one recreational haven with the fisher folk in mind.

    Outside Jamestown,Ky on Rt 127 it is easy to find and well worth the drive.

    The Wolf Creek Fish Hatchery is in the same area below the dam of Lake Cumberland. There were several people fishing along the small stream that feeds into the tailwater of the dam.

    The dam power plant is adjacent the entrance to the recreation area. There is a rental store that had kayaks and bikes , not far from the boat ramp that offered easy access to the river with a float plan map and fees clearly displayed.

    The campground has two areas. A two loop area with water access and the annex was smaller and set back from the water but in the same area as the fishing stream. Both were crowded.

    There is a nice pavilion, a nature trail and a small playground.

  • Keith M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground
    May. 13, 2018

    Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground

    Great Campground with Pool.

    Great option for young families. Many activities at the park and it is also close to the birth place of Kentucky Fried Chicken. They have nice sites for larger campers and some for small units that are more shaded.

  • Katrin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Sep. 1, 2022

    Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Quiet little campground

    We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campground is actually not in Tennessee. It's located on the Kentucky side of Big South Fork. The campsites have a picnic table and a firepit. Our campsite was very nice and private with a big grassy area. The bathhouse was nice and clean. There are hiking trails nearby and access to a small mining village. We would definitely camp here again.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Westgate RV Campground
    Apr. 28, 2021

    Westgate RV Campground

    Nice place, a little loud right now.

    This is great for a night or two, we have used it as a base camp for property search. For this ise it has been great. The sites are a good size with picnic tables at each site. The only problem right now is construction going on behind it, they are clearing out land to build something and they started work today at 5 in the morning. Also you do get road noise as it is at the intersection of two main Kentucky roads.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Jul. 12, 2018

    Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    What are you here for?

    Alum Ford Big South Fork Recreation Area is in my top 10 favorite areas.

    I try to participate in the Yamacraw Trail Run every year because it is just AWESOME, and this area is part of their route due to the excellent scenery of the area.

    If you like trees, hills, streams, falls, historical markers, old cabins and history , plus not much use of modern technology when you camp then you will thoroughly enjoy Big South Bend! If you are a bring the kitchen sink kinda camper you might wanna find a nearby KOA or other type campground.

    The campground has no signal, no electricity, no showers, no host. Just you, a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. Oh, and there is one pit toilet. Bring 5$ cash for the honor pay station and your hiking shoes and watercraft. There is a Trailhead at the back of the 6 site campground and a boat ramp down the hill.

    The sites are well maintained and old , probably CCC built with wood steps leading up or down to your site. There is no direct access to the boatramp but there is a short trail that connects the sites to the boatramp that runs along the cliff face down to the ramp.

    The trailhead is part of the Sheltowee Trace Trail and connects to the Yamacraw Bridge. You could easily stage a multi day backpacking trip from Alum Ford to take in the local sights.

    Not far up the road is the Yahoo Picnic Area. I think it used to be a campground just by the way it’s set up. Picnic tables on pads and a nice old pavilion for groups with a grill. Past that Yahoo Falls. This is a technical, moderate trail down to the tallest falls in Kentucky. Also a very old area but maintained with newer restroom facilities. The loop trail was approximately 1.5 miles long with a metal staircase on one side and trail on the far side. This is also part of a thru trail. Get you an old fashion paper map before coming cause your fancy electronic gear may or may not work here.

    This is one of many areas through the Kentucky/Tennessee Big South Fork if you are able plan for an extended stay to check the whole place out;)

  • Lori H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Like the Smokies, without the crowds

    Big South Fork NRRA is definitely one of my favorite places in Tennessee. It stretches into Kentucky’s too. So much to do and see, and the hiking and camping is equal to the Smokies in my opinion, except there’s no crowds, no traffic, not many people! It’s great! There’s a few campgrounds in BSF, like Bandy Creek and Station Camp,and they are excellent spots, but the backcountry is where it’s at n the BSF! I have found so many excellent camp sites along the river and in the forest, and I’ve always been able to find one with plenty of privacy on any given weekend. There’s lots of hiking, 4-wheeling, fishing, swimming, mountain biking, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing, etc here. The possibilities are endless! The sounds at night are so peaceful and relaxing, and the lightning bugs put on quite a show in the summer! I tried to make a video, I don’t think you can see them, but you can hear the woods at night!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
    Apr. 27, 2021

    Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

    Probably great in the summer

    This was a one night stop on our way to Ohio. The property is nice and the sites are spacious. Didn't really like the placement of the fire ring. Had we used it, we would have been listening to our neighbor's music most of the night. We had a W/E site. Our Verizon cell signal was terrible and the campground wifi was not much better. The sites were gravel but were level. We didn't use the showers but they looked clean. The laundry room had only 1 washer and 1 dryer. The playground is best suited for toddlers. The dump station would have been convenient if we were dumping on the way in, but not placed well for dumping upon departure. They did have a zip line and a gem mining station for an extra cost. It was secluded enough that there wasn't a lot of road noise at night. It seems like it would be a nice enough campground during the summer. For the price paid for the site, it would have been nice to have included some of the extra activities. No cell or wifi service would probably keep us from staying here again as it was impossible to get any work done. Be sure to check out the Birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. We didn't get to go inside the cafe(COVID), but we did have some photo ops outside.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Jul. 25, 2021

    Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    Hand pick your site if you can

    The sites are inconsistent between their sizes on the Clifty campground.  We had two small tents and one car.  If we had any more gear or people it would have been uncomfortable.  

    I had to be careful when parking as I had to avoid the water supply, 2 trees, a safety pole for the water supply (painted brown), electricity box, and then the drop off on the other side of the road.  It did take a few turns to get in and out of the campsite.  We did have cell phone service (Verizon) at the campground.  My friend that was T-Mobile did not have cell service. There are areas in the park where I did not have a signal such as when we went hiking or exploring.  I would pre-download maps for the area on All Trails as that was extremely helpful. 

    Some of the campsites at Clifty were much larger and were 2 of my site.  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. If you can hand pick your site or scout it out before hand it is well worth doing that if you have a larger sized family or tent. 

    I actually preferred Clifty over the main campground (Ridgeline). Ridgeline was down a long winding road.  It had way more folks.  Ridgeline is better suited for the RV and large tent crowds. Look closely as each site is rated for a different RV length and they had one pull in site. At Ridgeline they even have one campsite (tent) that was rated for 16 campers.  Generally, each site was rated for 8 campers.  Ridgeline also had some horse campers as I was able to see their horse trailers when going through the campsite. I saw 3 riders on horseback when I was driving to the camp store.  The stables are in two spots on the road down to Ridgeline. 

    Taken from Cumberland Falls State Park webpage "Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is the perfect destination to introduce the family to the thrill of horseback riding. The park offers guided trail rides that are easy enough for the first timer and still adventurous for the more experienced. Riders, age 6 and up will enjoy a 45-minute ride through an eastern Kentucky forest, beautiful in any season. The stables open weekends in May and are daily after Memorial Weekend until Labor Day. Also open on weekends during Sept. and Oct. Rides start on the hour from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost is$20.00 per person. Personal horses are not permitted on the trails at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, but there are several opportunities to do so in the surrounding area. There are many miles of trails and several horse camps in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest and The Big South Fork National River and Recreation area."

    Clifty was smaller and quieter.  It felt like it had more trees and only tents on this row of campsites.  The campsites are close to each other as we talked with our camp site neighbors on the both sides.  When I first booked my site I knew of the difference in locations between Ridgeline and Clifty but I couldn't figure out what the difference in settings/vibe would be like and I am so happy that I had picked Clifty. 

    The perk about the Clifty campsites is that they are close to the pool.  You can easily walk to the pool with your family when it opens.  The pool is free for campers.  I didn't get to check out their bathrooms but my fellow camper did and she said it was good.  I also discovered a trail and more down behind the Clifty campground.  I only found it as I noticed yellow blazes by the bathroom and followed it back to the trailhead.  Close to the bathroom is the dumpster with a home made jamming device to keep the bears out of the dumpster.  The Clifty bathroom was not ADA accessible as no wheelchair bathroom stall.  Shower wasn't accessible either if you have any mobility challenges. 

    Moonbow at Cumberland Falls - We arrived early and had a picnic dinner.  The moon bow is best when the moon is high over the falls.  We were hoping to see it around sun set at 9:30 - 10:00 but we actually had to stay later.  Make sure you take advantage of the picnic tables that are near by and the bathrooms.  The best site to see the Moonbow is at the Upper Falls which is close to the gift shop/snack bar.  You can see the falls from further down at the other observation decks. We hung out there for some time to avoid the crowds at the Upper Falls.  

    The parking lot will fill up as it gets closer to the time of the Moonbow. I avoided that by doing the picnic dinner and coming before sun set. The Cumberland Falls remain open till midnight as they know folks will want to see the Moonbow this is only seen at certain times of the year due to the moon.  It was nice to notice the ranger at the entrance of the park as we were leaving.  He was keeping tabs on the crowds at a distance as he wasn't needed at that time. 

    Hiking - Ask for a map at the lodge as I didn't see them at the campgrounds or even signs explaining what trail 12 vs 2 was in the area.  Also, be aware that the Sheltowee trail is in the area this is a 333 mile long trail and you will see the white blaze or turtle blazes. 

    Even some of the signs such as where the waterfall was for the near by Dog Slaughter Falls Trail said the falls were 1 mile away but it was actually several more miles.  I used the All Trails App and kept track of the miles on my Fitbit.  We found the Extended trail on All Trails and that matched up to the GPS tracking we did while on the trail.  We found 3 different signs for this hike in 3 different locations and each time the mileage was off.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Ridge Camping - Glamping Tents
    Jan. 17, 2023

    Hidden Ridge Camping - Glamping Tents

    15 Minute Walk to The Lake

    Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're happy to have this property on our platform. This site is secluded from other campers, so you'll be immersed in nature. This is a comfortable site, that doesn't require you to rough it. Check them out and leave them some love!

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Feb. 6, 2019

    Fall Creek Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

    beautiful views

    I have been going to this campground my entire life. 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. 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. There is a playground and plenty of walking to do. The sites have electric and I think water on each site. The hosts were wonderful. It is out in the middle of nowhere, but worth it. We drove out and bought ice and vegetables on the honor system at a little stand. There are stores to restock supplies not too far away and it is about 20 minutes to Conley Bottom Marina which has a restaurant and general store. We love this place and will definitely go back.

  • Michael M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Apr. 16, 2023

    Pulaski County Park

    Local hang out

    The facilities are fine. I was in the primitive area and they are OK. But don't come here expecting peace and quiet. There is constant traffic to the water area some blasting music and at night kids are running around on golf carts non-stop. I left a day earlier than planned because I couldn't even here my little radio over the bass blasting from someone several hundred yards away.

  • Anna C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Aug. 20, 2018

    Pulaski County Park

    Beautiful, but crowded and the crowd isn’t usually child friendly.

    This campground is in a great location. Only a 10 minute drive from Somerset, the “big” city, for supplies & food.

    Theres a very large walking trail, and archery area. You can put a boat right in at their little dock as well. The lake view is gorgeous. There’s many places for kids to play, a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area.

    The cost of camping there is very affordable. They also have little cabins you can rent.

    Despite the no alcohol rule, there’s still a lot of partying at night. No one really enforces that. It can get loud and I have heard from friends incidences of theft and cars getting scratched up at night.

    The campsites are close together, so perhaps we just got unlucky with our “neighbors”. We do visit a lot during the day just to swim at the lake and give the kids playtime.

  • Angie B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Pulaski County Park

    Close to boat ramp

    This campground has boat ramp very accessible. The shower house has both showers and stalls but are not kept clean during very busy times.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Mar. 22, 2019

    Pulaski County Park

    Great Place

    I have camped at this campground for over 58 years. It has been improved over the years and still needs work. More RV sites have been added. More are needed. Great place to go camping and priced well.

  • Katie M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Jun. 8, 2019

    Pulaski County Park

    Good camp ground

    My family and I have camped here most of my life. There has been lots of improvements to the camp ground. There is also several shelters you can rent for different events. There are hiking trails near the entrance of the camp. There is several different types of camp areas ranging from primitive to cabins. There are several play ground areas close by for the kids to play. You can bring your boats along and put them in right there they have 2 different ramps on either side of the camp ground. The only thing I would add is another bath house at the lower end of the camp areas. Something for everyone.

  • Terry S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulaski County Park
    Jun. 20, 2019

    Pulaski County Park

    Pulaski County Park

    This is a large and clean campground. 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.


Frequently Asked Questions

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