Zilpo Campground

For Kentucky locals, the call of the wild often leads to the vast and captivating landscapes of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Nestled within this natural wonderland, on the tranquil shores of Cave Run Lake, lies Zilpo Campground – a true gem for those seeking an immersive and memorable outdoor experience. Far from just a place to pitch a tent, Zilpo Campground offers a comprehensive and welcoming environment that consistently garners rave reviews from visitors, making it a highly recommended destination for anyone in the Bluegrass State looking to reconnect with nature.

Zilpo Campground stands out as a prime destination for families, friends, and solo adventurers due to its diverse camping options and exceptional customer service. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping, the convenience of an RV site with electric hookups, or the comfort of a cozy cabin rental, Zilpo caters to a wide range of preferences. Reviews consistently highlight the dedication of the camp hosts, like Jason and Lisa (or "Buffalo and Lisa" as affectionately called), who go "above and beyond expectations" to ensure everyone's stay is comfortable and enjoyable. From maintaining pristine facilities to fostering a welcoming atmosphere, Zilpo Campground is much more than just a place to sleep; it’s a community where "precious memories" are made amidst the stunning backdrop of Cave Run Lake and the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Zilpo Campground is strategically located at 79-99 Center St, Salt Lick, KY 40371, USA. This address places it on a beautiful 355-acre wooded peninsula that extends directly into the middle portion of Cave Run Lake, a prominent feature of the Daniel Boone National Forest. For Kentucky locals, this location offers an ideal balance of seclusion and accessibility. While it provides a deep immersion into nature, it remains reachable from various parts of the state via well-maintained state and U.S. routes. The drive itself, leading into the heart of the national forest, is part of the experience, offering scenic views as you approach this tranquil retreat.

The campground’s access roads are paved, and campsites are designed with asphalt drives and level gravel pads, making them generally easy to navigate for both tent campers and RVs of various sizes. However, visitors should be aware that Zilpo is intentionally remote. As some campers have noted, "it's an hour to get any supplies" from the nearest community. This emphasizes the need to come prepared with all your food, drinks, and essential items. The remoteness contributes significantly to the "super quiet campground" atmosphere that many cherish, providing a genuine escape from urban noise and light pollution. Despite being in the mountains, there’s often "surprisingly" good cell service, particularly in certain loops like H Loop, a welcome convenience for modern campers.

Zilpo Campground is celebrated for its comprehensive range of services, designed to enhance comfort and convenience for all types of campers. These include:

• Diverse Campsite Options: Zilpo offers 166 tent and RV campsites, including a selection of "lakefront sites" and sites with "electric hookups." Some sites are "electric and water hookups," while others are electric only or primitive.
• Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, Zilpo provides 12 basic rental cabins. These can accommodate up to six guests with bunk beds, a table, chairs, and a porch. Selected cabins (41, 120, 121, 123) are pet-friendly, and some (109, 123, 136) have accessible ramps.
• Modern Restrooms and Hot Showers: Throughout the campground, bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are available. While some reviews note occasional issues with cleanliness (spiders, lint) or lighting, the consistent availability of hot water is highly appreciated.
• Potable Water: Drinking water spigots are centrally located within each loop, ensuring easy access for all campers to fill their water tanks or containers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires. Many sites also provide metal posts with hooks for hanging lanterns or garbage.
• Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is available for RV campers to dispose of waste.
• Camp Store: The country store on-site offers essential items such as ice, firewood, basic groceries, fishing licenses, bait, and tackle, though some reviews indicate it may not always be open, so it's wise to bring most supplies.
• Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp is available for camper use only, providing easy access to Cave Run Lake for boating and fishing.
• Dedicated Camp Hosts: A significant highlight repeatedly mentioned by visitors is the presence of phenomenal, friendly, and helpful camp hosts who go "well above and beyond expectations," even organizing events like trick-or-treating or providing crucial safety information during storms.
• Accessibility Features: Some facilities and cabins are designed to be accessible, including ramps and accessible bathhouses.

Zilpo Campground's most compelling features stem from its stunning natural setting and the wealth of recreational opportunities it provides, all enhanced by its dedicated staff:

• Cave Run Lake: The crown jewel of the area, this expansive 8,270-acre lake is perfect for "water skiing and swimming." It's a renowned fishing destination for muskie, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The sandy beach with a roped swimming area offers spectacular lake views.
• Spacious & Private Campsites: Reviewers consistently praise the "huge camp sites" and the "privacy" afforded by the dense woods of mixed hardwoods that shade the campground. Sites are "extremely level" with well-defined areas.
• Abundant Wildlife: The campground is a haven for wildlife, with frequent sightings of raccoons, bears, and wild turkeys. This natural aspect adds to the wilderness experience, though campers are strongly advised to "secure all food and supplies safely inside car or RV" to avoid animal encounters.
• Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail: A 2.25-mile hiking trail starts within the campground, connecting to a larger network of trails around the lake, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
• Tater Knob Fire Tower: Located nearby, this historic fire tower is open to the public and provides "outstanding views" of the Daniel Boone National Forest and Cave Run Lake.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Described as a "fun-filled campground on Cave Run Lake" and a "prime destination for families," Zilpo offers a safe and engaging environment, often with special events like campground trick-or-treating.
• Exceptional Host Service: The personal touch provided by camp hosts like Jason, Lisa, and "Buffalo" is a recurring highlight, making visitors feel welcome and cared for.
• Scenic Beauty: The campground sits on a peninsula, with many sites offering "great views of the lake," surrounded by "beautiful clean" natural surroundings.

For reservations, general inquiries, or to get the most up-to-date information on Zilpo Campground, the following contact details are provided:

Address: 79-99 Center St, Salt Lick, KY 40371, USA

Phone: (606) 768-2722 (This is the direct campground office number, as noted on official sites like Recreation.gov and by campers for inquiries).

Mobile Phone: +1 606-768-2722 (Same as above, confirming mobile accessibility).

For reservations, especially, it is highly recommended to use the national reservation system: (877) 444-6777 (Recreation.gov, also mentioned in reviews for booking).

It is always advisable to check the official Recreation.gov website for the most current information regarding site availability, booking windows, alerts (e.g., for flooding cleanup as mentioned in alerts), and specific details on different loops and cabins.

Zilpo Campground on Cave Run Lake is an absolute must-visit for Kentucky locals seeking an unparalleled outdoor adventure. Its prime location within the Daniel Boone National Forest makes it easily accessible from various parts of the state, ensuring that a rejuvenating escape is always within reach. The variety of camping options, from comfortable RV sites with electricity to cozy cabins and traditional tent sites, caters to diverse preferences, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo campers alike. The "super quiet" and remote setting allows for a true disconnection from the stresses of daily life, fostering a deep connection with nature.

What truly sets Zilpo apart for Kentuckians is the phenomenal experience created by its dedicated camp hosts, whose commitment to visitor comfort and community spirit transforms a simple camping trip into a cherished memory. Combined with the boundless recreational opportunities that Cave Run Lake offers—from boating, fishing, and swimming to hiking scenic trails and observing abundant wildlife—Zilpo Campground provides an all-encompassing outdoor experience. Despite the need to come prepared due to its remote location, the pristine environment, excellent facilities, and welcoming atmosphere make Zilpo Campground a treasured "hidden gem" that embodies the very best of Kentucky's natural beauty and hospitality. It's the perfect place for locals to create new traditions and lifelong memories right in their own backyard.

Zilpo Campground

79-99 Center St, Salt Lick, KY 40371, USA