Kentucky Alum Ford Campground sits at the border of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, straddling the Kentucky-Tennessee line at about 1,000 feet elevation. The area features distinctive sandstone cliffs and gorges carved by the Cumberland River system. Glamping near Marshes Siding, Kentucky offers access to both luxury tent accommodations and primitive backcountry sites within dense hardwood forests that change dramatically through seasonal cycles.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: Multiple trails near Kentucky Alum Ford provide scenic vistas of the surrounding Cumberland Plateau. "We hiked the devils dive overlook trail," reports one visitor from Kentucky Alum Ford, highlighting accessible day hikes from established campsites.
Fishing opportunities: Laurel Lake provides year-round fishing access with multiple shore fishing spots. "Sites are level and pretty spacious, if not some a little tight together," notes a camper at Kentucky Alum Ford, mentioning how some sites offer direct access to fishing ponds with "massive lily pads and dragonflies."
Historical exploration: The area contains significant pioneer and industrial history. "There is access to a small mining village," writes a Kentucky Alum Ford reviewer, pointing to preserved historical structures that document the region's coal mining past.
Water recreation: Beyond glamping accommodations, multiple water access points exist for swimming and paddling. A visitor at Grove Boat-In Campground recalls: "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many glamping locations offer secluded settings. "The campsites have a picnic table and a firepit. Our campsite was very nice and private with a big grassy area," writes a Kentucky Alum Ford visitor who appreciates the space between accommodations.
Clean facilities: Bathroom facilities receive frequent positive mentions across glamping locations. "Clean bathrooms with showers," notes a Kentucky Alum Ford reviewer, while another states, "The bathhouse is nice and clean."
Trail access: Direct connections to hiking networks rank highly among visitor preferences. "Great access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks," mentions a Great Meadows Campground guest, adding that the sites are "beautiful secluded free campsite that I highly highly recommend. Swimming hole nearby and toilets."
Scenic waterfront views: Lakefront sites provide natural entertainment. At Waitsboro Campground, "This campground is built between a steep hillside and the Cumberland River. Most sites don't offer much privacy, but the views of the river are so nice."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most glamping accommodations in the area lack reliable connectivity. A camper at Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort reports, "Wireless is unreliable and if there are a lot of people it is unavailable. Limited cell service really only consistent if you walk up to the road."
Seasonal operation: Many facilities close during winter months. "Parts of this campground are open all year, though you need to bring your own water while there's a chance of frost," advises a Great Meadows Campground visitor.
Varying site quality: Not all sites provide equal amenities or experiences. "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," cautions a visitor to General Burnside Island State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Bears inhabit the surrounding forest. A camper at Tranquility Creek mentioned, "Got surprised by a bear while gathering firewood nearby," emphasizing the importance of proper food storage at glamping sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Falls Creek Cabins & Campground, one reviewer shared they "went with a large group and had people staying in each of these [accommodations] and all were happy," making it suitable for multi-family glamping trips.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "There is 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," reports a visitor to Laurel Lake Camping Resort.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites offer learning experiences. A Great Meadows camper suggests, "Take a steam train ride around the ridge tops, or wet your line in the streams," pointing to family-friendly activities beyond standard glamping.
Activity planning: Many glamping locations offer organized events. "Movies on the lawn, dance parties, bands on Holiday weekend while we were there," notes a Laurel Lake Camping Resort visitor about scheduled entertainment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many glamping locations with RV access have uneven terrain. "Sites are level and pretty spacious, if not some a little tight together," observes a Kentucky Alum Ford visitor with practical advice for larger vehicles.
Electrical considerations: Power availability varies across sites. A camper at Kentucky Alum Ford reports, "My electrical post at Site 001 showed reverse polarity, so I had to move to site 004," highlighting the importance of checking hookups when glamping with RV equipment.
Low clearance alerts: Tree branches can obstruct larger RVs at some glamping spots. A Laurel Lake Camping Resort reviewer warns, "Says Big Rig friendly, not so much. Low branches and very tight turns."
Dump station locations: Waste disposal options require planning. At Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, "Only the pull thru sites have sewer taps. All sites have water and 50 amp service though and a dump station is available," information valuable for extended glamping stays with RV facilities.
