Camping spots near Parkers Lake, Kentucky provide access to 708,000 acres of the Daniel Boone National Forest, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,750 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s and winter lows dropping to the 20s. Fall camping from mid-September through October offers moderate temperatures and colorful foliage displays throughout the surrounding forests.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: The Bee Rock Recreation Area offers several trails leading to panoramic views of the Rockcastle River. One camper noted, "The hike to Bee Rock is very enjoyable. Lots of small falls and cool views of the muddy river." Sites at Bee Rock Rec Area provide easy access to these trails.
Golf and boating: General Burnside Island State Park combines camping with recreation options. "Come here for golf, fishing, and/or picnics. The golf course is apparently well known and quite pretty, but we spent the weekend hiking in nearby Daniel Boone Park while the guys golfed," explains one visitor to General Burnside Island State Park Campground.
Adventure activities: Beyond standard camping, some sites offer additional recreation. At Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, "They offer many different activities through their company, such as electric bikes, white water rafting, zip lines, and tubing. We did the rafting and tubing. The rafting was fun and a great way to introduce beginners to the sport."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural settings at Holly Bay. One visitor shared, "I love this campground! The sites are spaced out, large and completely shaded. There are several bathhouses and some include large sinks to wash supplies." Holly Bay gets high marks for site privacy and layout.
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard campsites, some locations offer alternative lodging. At Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, "There are plenty of signs and it is well marked, easy to find. Directly behind the snack bar is the circle of covered wagons with a fire pit in the middle of them. These were really cool looking and seemed like a fun way to camp."
Fishing opportunities: Many campsites provide access to fishing. At Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground, "Sanded, river front tent sites. The camp sites are also shaded, very comfortable even in July. Great place for canoe, kayak & swimming activities. Fishing, hiking and more."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Cumberland Falls State Resort Park's Clifty Campground, "The sites are inconsistent between their sizes. We had two small tents and one car. If we had any more gear or people it would have been uncomfortable." Research specific sites before booking at Clifty Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October. A visitor at General Burnside noted, "We stayed here in October 2021. Campground was a little tight but we liked it. Close to the falls. Bathhouses dated but clean. Leaves were turning and very pretty."
Cell service limitations: Communication can be challenging in some locations. One camper at Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort reported, "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, I don't have booster."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer specialized activities for children. At Laurel Lake Camping Resort, "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."
Educational opportunities: The area offers learning experiences through natural features. At Blue Heron Campground, "There are miles of hiking and horse trails through the picturesque countryside. Take a steam train ride around the ridge tops, or wet your line in the streams."
Playground access: Consider campgrounds with built-in entertainment. A visitor to Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort mentioned, "The playground is unique & plus it's dog friendly. Our puppers had the best time! The kids asked if we could stay here again as we left!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At General Burnside Island State Park, "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."
Hookup placement: Some sites have utility connections in unexpected locations. One RVer at Ridgeline Campground noted, "Make sure to bring an extension cord if you want to use power. The hookups are too far away. It was quiet and wooded."
Size limitations: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. A camper reported, "This small campground is good only for small campers (20ft or smaller). The spots are uneven and many backup to a large hill. Some spots have decks."
