About BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND
Overview Boat Gunnel Group Campground is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest on Cave Run Lake. Widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities, Cave Run Lake is home to Kentucky's state record Muskie. This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Recreation Nearby Twin Knobs Campground offers a boat ramp and beach. Scenic foot trails in the area include the Boat Gunnel Shoreline Trail, the Oak Ridge Trail and the Wildlife Trail. Facilities Boat Gunnel Group Campground offers a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers, picnic shelter, horseshoe pit and drinking water. The camping area accommodates large groups of up to 100 people and is available by reservation only. The picnic shelter is equipped with a grill, serving table and electricity.Natural Features The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky. Nearby Attractions The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
How to Get There
From Lexington, Kentucky, on I-64, take exit 133. Turn right at the top of the exit ramp to proceed south on KY-801. Proceed 8.4 miles on 801. The campground entrance is on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND
Heading to BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251820) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND?
From Lexington, Kentucky, on I-64, take exit 133. Turn right at the top of the exit ramp to proceed south on KY-801. Proceed 8.4 miles on 801. The campground entrance is on the right.
How do I contact BOAT GUNNEL GROUP CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at email: vista@vista-rec.com.
References & Official Resources
