Tent campsites near Somerset, Kentucky feature varying terrain depending on the lake access point. Somerset sits at approximately 990 feet above sea level, with camping areas ranging from 725 to 950 feet elevation around Lake Cumberland and Laurel River Lake. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F during day with night temperatures dropping to 65-70°F, creating conditions where moisture can collect on tent surfaces overnight.
What to do
Mountain biking on extensive trail systems: Pulaski County Park offers numerous biking paths for various skill levels. A visitor noted, "The trails are varied and pretty cool. They twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops. I won't say their easy to navigate but it's doable if you pay attention to the names and direction your going." Some trails connect to areas outside the main park boundaries.
Disc golf excursions: Pulaski County Park features a full disc golf course that provides a workout along with recreation. One camper mentioned, "The disc golf will take you on quite a hike and to another parking lot and trailhead totally outside the park."
Boating access: Grove Boat-In Campground requires watercraft for access but rewards with peaceful waterfront camping. A kayaker reported, "I parked at the Grove marina and packed all I could on my kayak and headed to the sites. This was a pretty decent paddle away and I waited til too late to get there."
Waterfall viewing: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities. A hiker cautioned about trail signage: "Even some of the signs such as where the waterfall was for the nearby Dog Slaughter Falls Trail said the falls were 1 mile away but it was actually several more miles."
What campers like
Private tent sites with wilderness feel: Clifty Campground at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers more isolated spots. A camper recommended, "I loved site 48 at Clifty Campground. It was the most secluded spot we could find. Definitely book ahead of time if you can."
Lake views from campsites: Tent camping areas along Lake Cumberland provide water access and views. One camper at Rockcastle reported, "The site are well spread out for the most part, the view is very nice if you get to camp on the water, and we were able to find space on a major holiday which was very welcome."
Non-electric sites for true tent experience: Some sites without hookups offer better natural settings. A camper at Clifty Campground observed, "Sites 40-47 have electric and water. Sites 48-50 do not but all sites are close to the bath house."
Swimming access: Several campgrounds provide swimming areas during summer months. One visitor to Pulaski County Park mentioned, "Great beach access. Quite and very clean."
What you should know
Bathroom facility limitations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. One camper at Pulaski County Park noted, "The shower house has both showers and stalls but are not kept clean during very busy times." Another camper suggested, "The only thing I would add is another bath house at the lower end of the camp areas."
Site selection importance: Hidden Ridge Camping offers walk-in tent sites that provide more privacy. A reviewer commented, "These sites are spacious and secluded, the perfect spot for your next family adventure."
Limited primitive sites: Rockcastle campground provides basic tent sites but with minimal amenities. A visitor reported, "There was some trash scattered around due to inconsiderate campers and the vault bathrooms were pretty rough."
Trail navigation challenges: Trail systems can be confusing without proper maps. A hiker at Pulaski County Park advised, "I've been there several times and just recently found another parking area and trailhead. I'm surprised they don't have a tree top trail or zip line."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. One family at Pulaski County Park mentioned, "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."
Recreational diversity for different ages: Tranquility Creek provides a quieter camping experience. A visitor simply stated, "Quiet, clean place to rest. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints."
Weekend crowds: Family campers should be aware of busier periods. A camper at Pulaski County Park advised, "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."
Swimming areas for children: Water access points with designated swimming areas provide safe recreation options. A visitor noted about Pulaski County Park, "There's 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."
Tips for RVers
Site size limitations: Many tent-focused campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. At White Oak Boat-In Campground, a camper noted, "It can't be accessed by car but you can bike in on a dirt service road. Most of the docks are quite small, so plan to visit by small boat or by canoe/kayak."
Check campground layout: Some campgrounds have tight turns and limited parking. A camper at Clifty Campground reported, "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."
Electric hookup locations: Electric sites are specifically designated within most campgrounds. A camper noted about Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, "Stayed in the Clifty Campground. All sites with electric/water and NO RV's. 2 sites at either end totally primitive."
