How much does camping cost at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Camping fees at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. range from $31-$105/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. first-come first-served or reservation?

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. before I book?

Yes! Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. is open March 29 to October 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Yes, Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Cell phone service at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. have?

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. has 355 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Yes, pets are allowed at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

Q: Can I have a campfire at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.?

Fire policies at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.31

962 reviews

8697 Zilpo Road, Salt Lick, KY 40371

Summer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Red River Gorge Best Campgrounds Kentucky Hiking Camping Kentucky

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

800 ft

Price

$31 - $105/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

355 campsites

Season

Peak season: March 2...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Vista Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

800 ft

Price

$31 - $105/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

355 campsites

Season

Peak season: March 2...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Vista Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

$31.00 - $105.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $105.00; MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD DOUBLE ELECTRIC : $59.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC- PRIME: $58.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $44.00;...

Standard Site Fee$28.00

Hookup Site Fee$50.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

606-768-2722vista@vista-rec.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

8697 Zilpo Road, Salt Lick, KY 40371

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

8697 Zilpo Road, Salt Lick, KY 40371

Nearby places

Salt Lick (12 miles, approximately 30 minutes)

Weather at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

Current alerts(7)

A discount of 25% is now available for reservations that include 7 or more consecutive days.
Beach is opened from Memorial day to Labor day, unless flooding occurs hours of operation are 11am to 8 pm
Each cabin has 2 double bunk beds with out mattresses, Please bring your own sleeping bags or other bedding. Each cabin can accommodate up to 6 people and 1 vehicle. Tents and RVs are not allowed at the cabins.
Limit 6 people and 2 vehicles per single campsite; additional vehicles will be charged an additional fee per night; additional guest will be charged $2 per night.

Best Time to Camp at Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

Best season: summer. Summer delivers warm, lake-friendly weather (daytime highs commonly 80–90°F, nights in the 60s) and full campground services, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and waterfront camping at Zilpo. All boat ramps, beach areas, and rental/picnic facilities are in peak operation and fish activity for largemouth bass and stripers is excellent. Expect busier weekends and holiday crowds on the peninsula, but midweek stays are peaceful and provide outstanding sunrise views over Cave Run Lake. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Opens Mar 23; good boating/fishing and quieter spring visits though early season services may be limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 29 to October 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season: March 23–October 25. Closed from October 26 to March 22.

About Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

Zilpo sits on the shores of Cave Run Lake in Daniel Boone National Forest, near Salt Lick. Operated by Vista Recreation, this waterfront campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, primitive options, and rental cabins spread across a forested setting with direct lake access. Visitors come for swimming, boating, and hiking, with well-spaced sites and a camp store serving seasonal guests.

Zilpo Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations suitable for primitive, RV, and tent camping. Cabins are also available for rent, making it a versatile option for all camping preferences.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers warm, lake-friendly weather (daytime highs commonly 80–90°F, nights in the 60s) and full campground services, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and waterfront camping at Zilpo. All boat ramps, beach areas, and rental/picnic facilities are in peak operation and fish activity for largemouth bass and stripers is excellent. Expect busier weekends and holiday crowds on the peninsula, but midweek stays are peaceful and provide outstanding sunrise views over Cave Run Lake. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation800 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMixed hardwood forest. Oak, maple, hickory. Covers the peninsula at 800 feet elevation. The 8,270-acre lake, formed by damming the Licking River, surrounds the campground on three sides with sandy beaches and coves. Deer appear at forest edges. Wild turkeys walk through campsites. The lake reflects autumn foliage when hardwoods turn. One review notes the rocky beach requires swim shoes. The landscape is recent in geological terms, reclaimed forest over what was an Appalachian valley before the dam.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are 12 cabins available for rent, accommodating up to six guests each. The cabins include two sets of bunk beds, a table, two chairs, a lantern post, a picnic table, and a campfire ring. Notably, three cabins (109, 123, and 136) have wheelchair-accessible ramps. Pets are allowed in select cabins (41, 120, 121, and 123).

Programs & ActivitiesNature programs are scheduled during peak seasons, providing educational opportunities for visitors.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights maximum

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 6 guests per single campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its contact center.

AccessibilityMultiple wheelchair-accessible cabins are available, and paved roads improve accessibility. However, some reviews mention uneven paths and overgrown areas that may limit accessibility in certain spots.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious and well-maintained. 'Large sites with plenty of room,' a user commented.

PrivacyCampsites offer a good degree of privacy, often surrounded by trees. 'Sites have a good amount of trees and vegetation between campsites,' according to one review.

Total Campsites355 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and lake views, choose Loop H sites (e.g., 21, 26, 27). For cabins, opt for pet-friendly units like Cabin 14.

Best CampsitesLoop H sites 21 and 27 get praise in reviews for lake views and private beach access.

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Recreation.gov Guide

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Amenities available

Zilpo Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest offers a rich mix of amenities tailored for diverse camping needs, including tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Key facilities include electric hookups at some campsites, central drinking water locations, flush toilets and showers distributed throughout the campground, and picnic tables and campfire rings at individual sites. Notably, the campground also features a dump station, a concrete boat ramp for lake access, and a camp store offering ice, firewood, camping gear, and food. "Drinking water is located centrally within the loops. Flush toilets and showers are spread throughout the campground as well," as stated in official descriptions. Roads are paved, and tent pads are composed of gravel for stability.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Zilpo Campground is a hub for outdoor activities, thanks to its location on the scenic Cave Run Lake. Offerings include hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Hikers will appreciate the Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail, while anglers can challenge themselves with the abundant muskie, bass, and catfish in the lake. The sandy beach and scenic surroundings offer additional outdoor recreation.

Hiking

Swimming

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground, including dumpsters at strategic points. However, there are instances where these facilities have been reported as not well-maintained.

Cell CoverageCell phone service at the campground is described as 'spotty' and highly dependent on carrier and location. A camper noted, 'Cellular service is spotty. The strength of your signal will vary by carrier.' AT&T seems to provide some level of connectivity, but visitors are advised not to expect consistent signals.

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

962 reviews

Recommended

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Zilpo Campground enjoys a mix of positive and critical reviews. Common praises include the scenic location, spacious campsites with good privacy, and friendly staff. However, complaints often highlight maintenance issues, such as unkempt trails, outdated facilities, and tick infestations.

Review Summaries

Based on 962 reviews

What Campers Love

Beautiful lake views, well-spaced campsites, clean and functional cabins, and a friendly and accommodating staff. Many users also praised the natural setting and wildlife.

Based on 962 reviews

Common Concerns

Outdated bathroom facilities, inconsistent cell service, rocky beach areas, and issues with maintenance such as overgrown trails and a lack of hot water in showers.

Based on 962 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Loop H receives high praise for its proximity to the lake and spacious sites, with Site 27 frequently mentioned for its private beach access. However, some cabins were criticized for bed bug...

Based on 962 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring swim shoes for the rocky beach, carry bug spray to deal with ticks, and ensure all necessary supplies are packed due to the remote location.

Based on 962 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) brings well-attended nature programs and beach activities but also sees higher tick activity. Off-season visits provide serene and less crowded conditions.

Based on 962 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Campsites are large, clean, and well-spaced.' 'Ticks are a real issue - bug spray is a must!' 'The lake access and views are stunning.'

Based on 962 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-accessible cabins are appreciated, but overgrown trails and uneven pathways are a concern for some visitors.

Based on 962 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but dogs are not permitted at the beach. Cabins 41, 120, 121, and 123 are pet-friendly.

Based on 962 reviews

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Go if

You want lake access with a range of camping options from primitive sites to full-hookup RV spots and cabins.

Skip if

You're visiting off-season and need all facilities open, or you're sensitive to ticks and prefer more modern restrooms.

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Campgrounds

Daniel Boone National Forest

Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For.

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Zilpo - Daniel Boone Nat. For. sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

Zilpo Recreation Area is a 355-acre campground on <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=39320">Cave Run Lake</a> on <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=39316">Cumberland District</a>. This area has sites for tent camping and RV hookup.Basic rental cabins sleep up to 7, with beds, table, porch, accessible ramp entrance and picnic tables. Bathrooms and water are located nearby at the bathhouse.The campground has bathhouses with hot water showers, hiking and jogging trails, scenic overlooks, a boat ramp and a nearby country store. A sandy beach with a roped swimming area offers visitors a spectacular view of the lake.The Zilpo Store is your one stop shop to purchase food, floats, ice, wood, etc. during your beach and camping stay. Hours:  11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Thursday - Sunday.<a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=71038">Zilpo Mountain Trail #1802</a> begins across from D loop in Zilpo Campground and loops back around to near the entrance station.<a href="https://usfs-public.box.com/s/q18extxpqb7ota6w4c6vpl65317w2iv0">Zilpo Campground Map</a> (pdf)<a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=39320">Cave Run Lake</a> is nestled among the beautiful mountains of eastern Kentucky. Built for flood protection by the <a href="https://www.lrl.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/Lakes/Cave-Run-Lake/">U.S. Army Corps of Engineers</a>, this 8,270 lake provides flood protection to the lower Licking River valley and supplies water to area communities, improves water flow conditions on the Licking River, and offers habitat for many species of fish and wildlife. The lake is known for its excellent muskie fishing.<iframe allowfullscreen="" aria-label="Zilpo Recreation Area" frameborder="0" height="800" src="https://cdn.recreation.gov/widget/fs/camping/index.html?id=232370" width="100%"></iframe>

About the campground

The elevation is 800 ft. The campground is scenic and located on a peninsula in the middle portion of Cave Run Lake. It has eight sections - Arrow, Bat, Cardinal, Deer, Eagle, Fox, Goose, and Heron. These sections are loops except for Deer which is two spurs forming a "Y". The turn around for each spur should be ample for most rigs. Electric hookups are scattered throughout the campground. Goose and Heron sections, located at the end of the peninsula and furthest from campground entrance, are in the denser stand of mixed hardwoods. Some sites in each section overlook the lake. Overall, privacy between campsites is fair to good. There is an excellent view from Tater Knob fire tower located not far from campground and just off Forest Rt. 918. Three miles of shoreline offer bank fishing. One "Camper's Cabin" is available; contact the ranger district office for information. There is a camp store with limited groceries, camping supplies, firewood and ice. Interpretive programs are held on the weekends. Camper’s cabin available through recreation.gov/ This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. No alcoholic beverages are allowed in the campground.

Seasons & access

Open March 24 through October 22

Facilities

Showers are wheelchair friendly.

Water activities

Cave Run Lake is 8,270 acres. Large sandy beach.

RV information

The parking aprons are paved. Two RV waste stations are within the Daniel Boone National Forest 162 recreation area.

Directions

In Salt Lick, KY, at the intersection of State Rt. 211 and US Rt. 60, take Rt. 211 south for 3.6 miles to Forest Recreation sign. Turn left at sign onto Clear Creek Rd. and go 3.9 miles to Zilpo campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Rt. 918 and go 8.7 miles to campground.

National Forest: Boone National Forest
Ranger District: Cumberland
Elevation: 800
Rate: $22 per day - single (no hook-ups) $33 per day - double $27 per day - prime plus $10 per day surcharge for electric hookups NOTE: No discount on surcharge.
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: 3rd Friday in March – Last Sunday in October