US Army Corps of Engineers

For Kentuckians looking for an exceptional outdoor experience with stunning views and abundant recreational opportunities, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) manages several fantastic campgrounds across the state. Among the most prominent and beloved is Kendall Campground, located near Jamestown, KY. Situated just below the iconic Wolf Creek Dam, which forms the magnificent Lake Cumberland, this campground offers a truly memorable escape into nature. It’s a place where the grandeur of a massive man-made lake meets the tranquility of a well-maintained natural setting.

Kendall Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a hub for adventure and relaxation. Whether you're an avid angler, a hiking enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat with breathtaking scenery, this USACE-managed site provides ample space and facilities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. As one satisfied visitor noted, even when busy, there's "plenty of room and beautiful views," underscoring the campground's ability to accommodate many while retaining its natural charm. For locals, it represents an easily accessible slice of paradise right here in Kentucky.

Kendall Campground, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, is precisely located at 80 Kendall Road, Jamestown, KY 42629, USA. This prime address places it just south of Jamestown, directly below Wolf Creek Dam and on the majestic Lake Cumberland. Lake Cumberland is renowned as one of the largest man-made lakes east of the Mississippi River, offering an expansive aquatic playground.

Access to Kendall Campground is straightforward for Kentuckians. From Jamestown, you can take US Highway 127 south for approximately 10 miles and then turn right just before crossing the dam onto Kendall Road. The campground is easily identifiable. Its location provides excellent accessibility to several key attractions. The Wolf Creek Dam National Fish Hatchery is within walking distance, offering free tours and an Environmental Education Center, making for an educational and enjoyable side trip. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park is also just 6.5 miles away, expanding the range of activities available, from additional hiking and horseback riding to mini-golf and boat rentals. This strategic positioning ensures that while you're immersed in nature, you're never too far from additional amenities and points of interest, making it a convenient destination for residents across Kentucky.

Kendall Campground, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors:

• Campsites with Hookups: The campground boasts 116 reservable campsites, all of which come equipped with water and electric hookups (both 30 and 50 amp service available, though some 50 amp hookups may have temporary limitations). This caters to both RV and tent campers seeking modern conveniences.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring/grill, and a lantern post, providing essential comforts for outdoor living.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, including well-maintained restrooms and shower houses with running water. Some loops even feature free laundry services, a significant convenience for longer stays.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A readily available sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, making waste disposal convenient for campers.
• Recreational Facilities: The campground features a variety of recreational amenities including a boat ramp with a courtesy dock, a fish cleaning station, a basketball court, a horseshoe pit, and multiple playgrounds for children.
• Splash Pad: A popular highlight, especially during warmer months, is the modern splash pad with various water features, shaded tables, and an adjacent play structure, offering a fun way to cool off for families.
• Group Day-Use Shelter: A group day-use picnic shelter with water and electric hookups is available for gatherings and events.
• Snack Bar/Concession Stand: Captain Jake's Snack Shack is located within the park, offering ice cream, milkshakes, breakfast, lunch, drinks, ice, wood, and bike rentals, adding a convenient option for food and supplies.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are generally allowed in COE campgrounds, provided they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet or confined to a pen/cage. They are not permitted in restrooms, swim areas, or playgrounds.

Kendall Campground boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that contribute to its popularity among Kentuckians:

• Stunning Lake Cumberland Views: The campground offers "beautiful views" overlooking the majestic Cumberland River and Lake Cumberland, the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi. Many campsites are situated close to the water, providing picturesque scenery.
• Prime Fishing Destination: Located just below Wolf Creek Dam, the campground offers convenient access to a cold water trout stream (Hatchery Creek), which is regularly stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout. This makes it a popular spot for anglers.
• Proximity to Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery: The hatchery is within walking distance and provides free tours, an Environmental Education Center, and opportunities to feed the trout, making it an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
• Spacious and Level Sites: Campsites are generally large, well-spaced, and mostly level with gravel pads, making them easy to set up for both RVs and tents. Many sites are also shaded by dense stands of mature hardwoods.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Beyond the standard playgrounds, the inclusion of a modern splash pad for children is a significant highlight, offering an inclusive and accessible way for kids to cool off and play.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a generally "calm quiet" ambiance, especially given its expansive size and thoughtful layout, allowing for a relaxing retreat.
• Hiking Opportunities: The Whispering Pines Trail, a non-strenuous half-mile trail, is located within the campground. Additionally, Lake Cumberland State Park, just 6.5 miles away, offers more extensive hiking trails.
• Convenient Concessions: The on-site Captain Jake's Snack Shack provides convenient access to food, drinks, ice, firewood, and bike rentals, reducing the need to leave the campground for essentials.
• Good Cell Service: Reviewers note that Verizon service works great in the area, which can be a valuable amenity for those who need to stay connected.
• Friendly Hosts: The presence of "friendly hosts" contributes to a welcoming and supportive environment for campers.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Kendall Campground, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, please use the following contact details:

Address: 80 Kendall Road, Jamestown, KY 42629, USA

Phone: (270) 343-4660

Mobile Phone: +1 270-343-4660

Reservations for campsites are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, and can be conveniently made through the Recreation.gov website. It is always advisable to check the Recreation.gov page for Kendall Campground for the most up-to-date information on availability, specific site details, pricing, and any alerts or notifications regarding park operations, such as temporary amenity closures. Additionally, while cell service is noted to be good, planning ahead for your visit and reviewing park rules and regulations ensures a smooth and enjoyable camping experience at this popular Kentucky destination.

Kendall Campground, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Kentucky, offering a premier outdoor destination right in their own state. Its strategic location below Wolf Creek Dam provides immediate access to Lake Cumberland, a massive recreational playground perfect for boating, swimming, and especially fishing, with the added bonus of a cold water trout stream. This direct access to diverse water-based activities makes it an ideal choice for any Kentuckian who loves spending time on or by the water.

The campground’s robust amenities, including spacious sites with electric and water hookups, impeccably clean bathhouses, and even a fun splash pad for kids, ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for families and individuals alike. This combination of natural beauty with modern comforts means that locals don't have to sacrifice convenience for an authentic outdoor adventure. The presence of the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery nearby adds an educational and unique element that can enrich a family trip, making it more than just a camping excursion.

Furthermore, the "always a good time, even if it's busy" atmosphere suggests a well-managed and welcoming environment that can handle crowds while still providing a sense of space and tranquility, a testament to the USACE's operational standards. For Kentuckians seeking an affordable, accessible, and activity-rich camping destination that truly showcases the natural wonders of their home state, Kendall Campground stands out as an excellent and highly recommended choice.

US Army Corps of Engineers

100 Boat Dock Rd, Jamestown, KY 42629, USA