Zilpo Recreation Area

Open

Open for the 2026 season. Operating season runs from the third Friday in March through the last Sunday in October. Reservations required via Recreation.gov. Beach open Memorial Day through Labor Day, 11am to 8pm.

Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 4:44AM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Jackson KY

4:44 AM — 3:00 PM

* 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 today.

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

Zilpo Recreation Area occupies a scenic peninsula on the south shore of Cave Run Lake within Daniel Boone National Forest. The campground offers over 170 sites ranging from primitive tent camping to RV sites with 30-amp electric hookups, plus 12 rental cabins that sleep up to seven guests. A stand of mixed hardwoods provides excellent shade and privacy between sites. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post, with gravel tent pads and paved roads throughout. The 355-acre recreation area provides direct lake access via a concrete boat ramp and features a sandy swimming beach open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Bathhouses with flush toilets and showers are distributed throughout the campground loops. A camp store sells ice, firewood, camping supplies, and food. An RV dump station is available for registered campers and non-campers alike. Nearby trails include Zilpo Mountain Trail #1802 leading to a lake overlook, and Zilpo Connector Trail #113A providing access to an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. The campground operates from the third Friday in March through the last Sunday in October and requires advance reservations through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From Salt Lick, take KY 211 south for 4 miles and turn left onto County Road 129 (Clear Creek Road). After approximately 4 miles, turn onto Forest Service Road 918 (Zilpo National Forest Scenic Byway) and continue for approximately 8 miles.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups No
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store Yes
Price $28 - $94

Vehicle

Max RV Length 30ft
Max Trailer Length 30ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (606) 768-2722

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Photos

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