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.

Special Weather Statement issued October 10 at 6:20AM EDT by NWS Jackson KY

6:20 AM — 5:00 PM

A period of strong wind gusts is expected on today as the remnants of Hurricane Isaias move into eastern Kentucky. Southeasterly winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph are expected. Isolated gusts up to around 40 mph are possible in exposed areas near Lake Cumberland. The strongest winds are expected from late morning through the afternoon and should coincide with the arrival of the leading bands of rain. Once rainfall becomes steady, winds will lighten. The gusty winds could blow around unsecured outdoor objects and decor.

Daniel Boone National Forest

Offices closed for Columbus Day, Oct 12

All Forest offices will be closed Monday, October 12, 2026, in recognition of Columbus Day. Offices will resume normal hours of operation Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

Daniel Boone National Forest

National Visitor Use Monitoring, Oct 2026-Sept 2027

From October 2026 through September 2027, survey interviewers will be conducting National Visitor Use Monitoring surveys of Daniel Boone National Forest visitors around the Forest. Surveys are voluntary and all responses are confidential. Surveys take roughly 15 minutes to complete. Survey sites…

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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