Glamping in Manchester, Kentucky offers unique outdoor experiences set within the mountainous terrain of eastern Kentucky, where elevations range from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. Several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius provide luxury camping options with full hookups and modern amenities during the region's typically humid summer months when temperatures average in the mid-80s. Winter camping remains available at select sites despite occasional snow and temperatures that drop to the 30s.
What to do
Hiking trails with historical context: Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground features several hiking paths that showcase pioneer history. "Pretty wooded spot along the water with lots of history to explore. Pros: lots to do (pool, museum & historic buildings, some hiking trails, ranger talks, playground, sports fields, pool)," notes Justin S.
Fishing from multiple access points: Buckhorn Dam Campground offers fishing directly from campsites. "Our site backed up to the creek and a nice little levee for fishing. You could also go up back the park and fish right at the spillway from Buckhorn Lake Dam. Really fun experience," writes Marissa G.
Explore local waterways: Grove Boat-In Campground provides unique water-based camping experiences. "My first experience to a boat in and did it all on my own! My boat was my kayak. I parked at the Grove marina and packed all I could on my kayak and headed to the sites," shares Emilee B.
Adventure activities for additional fees: Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort offers guided rafting trips and ziplines. "The rafting was fun and a great way to introduce beginners to the sport. The rapids were not too wild and none of us fell out of the raft. There were several areas to jump out and swim," explains Heather K.
What campers like
Heated facilities during winter stays: Lago Linda Hideaway maintains comfortable restrooms year-round. "The bathrooms were heated which was a nice touch since it snowed the other two days I was there," mentions Sarah H.
Unique accommodation options: Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA provides a range of camping styles. "Staff was extremely friendly and helpful.. firewood delivered to campsite and very helpful," reports Vinny K.
Family-run operations with personalized service: Laurel Lake Camping Resort staff provide attentive service. "The owner got on the phone called in staff/life guards to come in so my 2 kids could play on it for an hour. To me that is 5 stars all in its self," Donna H. explains.
Well-maintained play facilities: Buckhorn Dam Campground features exceptional playgrounds. "Hands down the best playground for kids we have seen in a campground," notes Marissa G., while another camper mentioned the park has "a playground, basketball court, swing, and volleyball court."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Routes to some campgrounds require careful planning. "DO NOT TAKE 'PLEASANT VALLEY RD' into the campgrounds! That road takes you on a single lane road and if you meet another vehicle, someone will have to backup," warns J.B. about Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake.
Seasonal availability varies: Buckhorn Dam Campground operates on a limited schedule. "The dump station was clean and easily accessible with a hose for flushing," notes Marissa G., but the campground is only open "May 1 to September 29."
Cell service limitations: Many luxury camping options have limited connectivity. "No cell or wifi service would probably keep us from staying here again as it was impossible to get any work done," Jessica L. mentions about Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort.
Water pressure issues: Be prepared for inconsistent utilities. "Very nice place, quite ample room on camp site, good 50 amp power supply but water pressure is very poor in the camper," reports Bryan Y. about Falls Creek Cabins & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider activity schedules: Some campgrounds plan regular events for children. "The campground is family owned and offers lodging for any need," shares Doug and Terri C. about Falls Creek Cabins & Campground.
Choose sites with kid-friendly amenities: Laurel Lake Camping Resort offers water activities specifically designed for children. "They have a pond for fishing and another pond for swimming with nice Sandy beach. They also put out bouncy houses for the kids at no extra cost," explains John P.
Look for beginner-friendly outdoor activities: Lago Linda Hideaway maintains easy trails suitable for all ages. "The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day," describes Sarah H.
Book early for holiday weekends: Popular periods fill quickly at most campgrounds. "Very busy on labor day weekend!" warns Emilee B. about Grove Boat-In Campground's peak seasons.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. "Spots were pull through so that was a plus. Pretty unlevel though. Bring lots of blocks," suggests Travis S. about Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground.
Maneuverability concerns: Larger rigs face challenges at some sites. "Low branches and very tight turns. Some spaces were long," Bill B. cautions about Laurel Lake Camping Resort, despite its "Big Rig Friendly" designation.
Full hookup limitations: Check for specific site utilities when booking. "Only the pull thru sites have sewer taps. All sites have water and 50 amp service though and a dump station is available," John C. explains about Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort.
Dump station positioning: Consider logistics for arrival and departure. "The dump station would have been convenient if we were dumping on the way in, but not placed well for dumping upon departure," notes Jessica L.
