Pulaski County Park provides both developed camping and primitive sites around Lake Cumberland, with accommodations ranging from basic tent spaces to cabin rentals. Water levels fluctuate throughout the season, with summer months typically offering the highest water levels for boating and swimming. Fall visitors may find certain boat ramps and water access points limited due to drawdown periods, though camping remains available year-round.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: Kendall Campground offers excellent access to trout fishing on the Cumberland River. "The trout stream is beautiful and you can always see plenty of wildlife," notes a Kendall visitor. The campground is located near the National Fish Hatchery with a dedicated trout stream running from the hatchery to the river.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Blue Heron Campground within Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area provides access to numerous trails. "The trails are varied and pretty cool. They twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops," mentions one camper. The trails are primarily designed for mountain bikes with varying difficulty levels.
Disc golf courses: At Pulaski County Park, the disc golf course offers an unexpected hiking experience. "The disc golf will take you on quite a hike and to another parking lot and trailhead totally outside the park," reports a visitor. The course layout provides both recreation and exploration opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Tent campers appreciate the wooded settings at several parks. "Good primitive sites. If they are really busy it can be a little crowded especially down by the water but over all a really good camping spot," notes a visitor about Pulaski County Park's primitive camping areas.
Cabin accommodations: Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort offers unique lodging options. "Cozy cabin 2 had air conditioning, a full size bed and bunk bed. There was a counter, microwave and mini fridge... Really quaint but a perfect way to camp without being too expensive," details one reviewer about their stay in the resort's cabins.
Yurt camping options: Somerset, Kentucky and surrounding areas offer several yurt camping alternatives. Waitsboro Campground provides spacious sites near yurt accommodations. "Very clean great view of the lake," says a camper about the general camping experience at Waitsboro, which is representative of the standards maintained at yurt locations in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal water fluctuations: Lake levels change dramatically throughout the year. "Not crowded right now and the water is WAY down," notes a Pulaski County Park visitor during off-season. Water access points and swimming areas may be unavailable during drawdown periods.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility upkeep differs between parks and seasons. "Bathhouse; showers are so outdated and barley cleaned and just gross, water source is old," states one Pulaski County Park visitor, while others report clean facilities at the same location.
Limited connectivity: Cell service and WiFi are unreliable in many locations. "Our Verizon cell signal was terrible and the campground wifi was not much better," reports a Laurel Lake Camping Resort camper. Plan to disconnect during your stay or travel to nearby towns for connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "There are several play ground areas close by for the kids to play," mentions a Pulaski County Park visitor. Some locations also feature organized family activities during peak season.
Swimming access considerations: Beach areas provide swimming options but may require planning. "Great beach access. Quite and very clean," notes a visitor at Pulaski County Park. Water access points may involve steep terrain at some locations, so scout your route before bringing young children.
Unique camping experiences: General Burnside Island State Park offers distinctive family camping options. "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," observes one camper, highlighting the importance of selecting the right site for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature hilly terrain requiring planning. "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," warns a visitor at Rockcastle campground. Bring adequate leveling equipment.
Dump station locations: Check dump station positioning before setting up. "The dump station would have been convenient if we were dumping on the way in, but not placed well for dumping upon departure," notes a Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort visitor. Plan your campsite selection with this logistics consideration in mind.
Site size considerations: Research space limitations before booking. "Good for small rv like ours or big rigs. FHU," shares a Laurel Lake camper, but other visitors note tight turns and low branches at the same location, showing the importance of knowing your specific vehicle requirements.
