Boat Gunnel Group Campground

Open

Open seasonally from mid-March through early November. Reservation required through Recreation.gov. Dump station access available at nearby Twin Knobs and Zilpo campgrounds for an additional fee.

Extreme Heat Warning issued July 1 at 10:34PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Jackson KY

July 1st, 10:34 PM — 7:45 AM

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values near or exceeding 105 degrees. Additionally, low temperatures in the 70s will provide only limited relief at night. * WHERE...Portions of east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Kentucky. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...An extended period of hot and humid conditions continues through at least Friday - with the most oppressive conditions expected on Thursday.

Daniel Boone National Forest

Fees waived at Natural Arch, Billy Branch for Independence Day, July 4

In recognition of Independence Day, visitors will not be charged recreation fees at standard amenity fee* sites, Saturday, July 4, 2026. *Standard amenity fees are often charged at picnic areas, developed trailheads and destination visitor centers. Natural Arch Picnic Area and Billy Branch Picnic…

Daniel Boone National Forest

Offices closed for Independence Day, July 3

All Forest offices will be closed Friday, July 3, 2026, in recognition of Independence Day. Offices will resume normal hours of operation Monday, July 6, 2026.

About

Boat Gunnel Group Campground sits on Cave Run Lake in the Cumberland District of Daniel Boone National Forest, surrounded by the rolling hills of eastern Kentucky. This reservation-only group site is ideal for large gatherings, accommodating up to 100 people with 15 tent sites and up to 4 RV spots with 30/50 amp electric hookups. The campground features a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers, drinking water from faucets, and a covered picnic shelter equipped with electricity, a grill, and serving tables. A horseshoe pit provides on-site recreation. The lakefront location provides access to Cave Run Lake, known for its scenic beauty and state-record muskie fishing. Nearby Twin Knobs Campground offers a boat ramp and beach for additional lake access. Scenic hiking trails in the immediate area include the Boat Gunnel Shoreline Trail, Oak Ridge Trail, and Wildlife Trail. Dump stations are available at Twin Knobs and Zilpo campgrounds for an additional fee.

Directions

From Lexington on I-64, take exit 133 (Farmers Sharkey). Turn south onto KY-801 and proceed 8.4 miles. The campground entrance is on the right.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups No
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store No
Price $175

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (606) 784-6428

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

Photos

Fire Pit
Shelter
Fire Pit

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