Zilpo Campground

For Kentuckians yearning for an unforgettable outdoor experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Zilpo Campground stands as a prime destination. Nestled on a picturesque peninsula within the Daniel Boone National Forest and along the shores of the expansive Cave Run Lake, Zilpo offers a diverse range of camping options to suit every preference, from spacious RV sites and private tent pads to cozy cabin rentals. It's a place where the tranquility of the forest meets the exhilaration of lakeside recreation, making it an ideal getaway for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in Kentucky's stunning wilderness.

Zilpo Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant recreation area spanning 355 acres, thoughtfully designed to provide both comfort and adventure. Reviews from past visitors frequently highlight the privacy of the campsites, many of which are "shaded with large hardwood trees and all are within walking distance of the lakeshore." This natural seclusion, combined with well-maintained facilities like "bathhouses with flush toilets and showers," ensures a comfortable stay. Even with ongoing improvements, such as past flooding cleanups and electrical wire replacements, the commitment to providing a quality experience remains evident.

The allure of Zilpo extends to its unparalleled access to Cave Run Lake, an 8,270-acre reservoir known for its excellent fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Whether you're casting a line for muskie, enjoying a day on the sandy beach, or exploring the surrounding trails, Zilpo offers something for everyone. It truly embodies the spirit of a quintessential Kentucky outdoor adventure, inviting locals to create lasting memories in one of the state's most cherished natural settings.

Zilpo Campground is located within the Daniel Boone National Forest, with its physical address often associated with Salt Lick, KY 40371, USA (specifically, 8697 Zilpo Road, Salt Lick, KY 40371). This places it in Menifee County, a part of Eastern Kentucky renowned for its rugged beauty and extensive forest lands.

Accessibility to Zilpo Campground, while requiring a bit of a drive into the forest, is well-documented for Kentucky residents. From US 60, visitors typically take KY 211 through Salt Lick. The route then involves turning onto Forest Service Road 129, followed by Forest Service Road 918, which leads directly to the Zilpo Recreation Area. This journey, approximately 8 miles on forest roads from KY 211, immerses visitors deeper into the scenic wilderness as they approach the campground. While some reviewers note it's a "relatively long drive (19 miles) from Salt Lick to the campground" on "very curvy, narrow road," this also contributes to its secluded charm.

Despite its seemingly remote location, Zilpo is positioned within a reasonable driving distance for many Kentucky communities. Morehead, a larger town offering more extensive services, including a supermarket, is roughly 12 to 17 miles away. This ensures that campers can easily access groceries, gas, and other necessities, striking a balance between immersion in nature and practical convenience. The well-marked Forest Service roads guide visitors directly to this peaceful retreat, making it an accessible adventure for locals from across the Commonwealth. Parking is available at campsites, cabins, the store, beach, and bathhouses, ensuring ease of access upon arrival.

Services Offered at Zilpo Campground:

• Campsites: Offers a variety of sites catering to different camping preferences:
  • Tent Sites: Primitive and designated tent pads, often gravel and level, with picnic tables and campfire rings. Many sites offer good privacy.
  • RV Sites: Accommodate RVs between 16 and 100 feet, with options for:
    • Electric Hookups: Many sites provide 30-amp electric service, with some sites specifically offering electric and water hookups.
    • Water Hookups: Available at some sites, and potable water is centrally located throughout the loops.
  • Lakefront Sites: A selection of campsites offer direct views or immediate access to Cave Run Lake.
  • Double Sites: Available for larger groups.
• Cabin Rentals: 12 basic rental cabins are available, sleeping up to seven guests. They include beds, a table, a porch, an accessible ramp entrance, and picnic tables. Bathrooms and water are located nearby at the bathhouse. Some cabins are pet-friendly and accessible.
• Bathhouses: Modern bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are conveniently spread throughout the campground loops, ensuring comfort and cleanliness.
• RV Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RV waste disposal (a fee applies for non-registered campers).
• Campground Store: A country store is located within the Zilpo Recreation Area, offering food, snacks, ice, fishing licenses, bait, tackle, and camping supplies.
• Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp with a dock for easy loading and a large parking lot provides direct access to Cave Run Lake for motorized and non-motorized boats.
• Sandy Swimming Beach: A large, sandy swimming beach with a roped swimming area offers a designated and scenic spot for cooling off and enjoying the lake. (Note: Beach access or parts of the campground may be temporarily closed due to high lake levels or maintenance, so checking current conditions is advised).
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite, including cabins, is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill grate.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available from faucets located centrally within the loops.

Zilpo Campground, as a key component of the Zilpo Recreation Area within the Daniel Boone National Forest, boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that enhance the outdoor experience for Kentucky visitors.

Features / Highlights:

• Cave Run Lake Access: The campground's location on a peninsula in Cave Run Lake is its crowning jewel. This 8,270-acre lake offers:
  • Excellent Fishing: Renowned for muskie, as well as largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish.
  • Boating: Suitable for a wide range of motorized boats (no horsepower limit mentioned, implying standard lake regulations), along with kayaking and canoeing.
  • Swimming: A large, sandy beach with a roped swimming area provides a fantastic spot for relaxation and cooling off.
• Scenic Wooded Environment: Zilpo is shaded by a dense stand of mixed hardwoods, offering natural beauty and privacy for campsites. Reviewers frequently praise the "beautiful wooded sites" and the sense of seclusion.
• Diverse Recreation Opportunities: Beyond water activities, the area provides:
  • Hiking Trails: The Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail (2.25 miles) connects to a network of other trails around the lake, perfect for nature walks and more strenuous hikes.
  • Wildlife Viewing: The forest setting makes it ideal for observing local wildlife.
  • Nature Programs: Regularly scheduled nature programs are offered during peak season.
• Variety of Site Types: From electric RV sites and spacious tent sites to comfortable cabins, Zilpo caters to different camping styles and preferences, including reservable options for convenience.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers consistently note the cleanliness of the restrooms and bathhouses with hot showers, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Tater Knob Fire Tower: A nearby attraction open to the public, offering outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding forest and lake.
• Managed by VISTA Recreation: While part of the National Forest, the campground is managed by a private concessionaire, VISTA Recreation, which helps ensure consistent service and upkeep.
• Accessibility Features: Some sites and facilities (like certain cabins and the bathhouse) are accessible, catering to visitors with disabilities.

While Zilpo Campground, as part of the Daniel Boone National Forest, generally operates on fixed rates for its sites and cabins, there are a few established "promotions" or ways for Kentucky locals to potentially save on their stay:

• Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes: Holders of these passes (such as the America the Beautiful Senior Pass or Access Pass) receive a 50% discount on single campsites. This discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder. This is a significant saving for eligible individuals.
• Long-Term Stay Discount: Reservations for seven consecutive nights or more receive an automatic 25% discount. This is a considerable incentive for Kentuckians planning an extended vacation at Zilpo.
• Standardized Fee Structure: While not a "promotion" in the traditional sense, the transparent fee structure (e.g., Single Site: $28/night; Premium Single Site: $39; Cabin: $94/night, with additional fees for electric or extra vehicles) allows for clear budgeting and ensures consistent pricing for all visitors.

It's important to note that specific, short-term promotional codes or seasonal sales are generally not typical for National Forest campgrounds. However, it is always advisable for Kentucky residents to check the official Recreation.gov website for Zilpo Campground, or contact VISTA Recreation directly, for the most up-to-date information on fees, availability, and any potential new offers. Given the campground's popularity, especially for reservable sites and cabins, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred dates and site type.

Contact Information:

Address: Kentucky 40371, USA (More specifically, 8697 Zilpo Road, Salt Lick, KY 40371, USA)

Phone for Campground Inquiries (VISTA Recreation): (606) 768-2722

Phone for Reservations (National Recreation Reservation Service): 877-444-6777 (TTY: 877-833-6777 for the hearing impaired)

Cumberland Ranger District Office (General Forest Info): (606) 784-6428 (Address: 2375 KY 801 South, Morehead, KY 40351)

For campsite availability, cabin rentals, current conditions (e.g., beach closures due to flooding), or any specific questions about Zilpo Campground, contacting VISTA Recreation or using the Recreation.gov website is recommended.

Zilpo Campground in the Daniel Boone National Forest is an exceptional destination perfectly suited for Kentucky locals seeking an enriching and memorable outdoor experience. Its prime location on Cave Run Lake offers unparalleled opportunities for water-based recreation, from excellent fishing and diverse boating to swimming on a sandy beach. This direct access to one of Kentucky's most beautiful lakes is a major draw for families and outdoor enthusiasts across the Commonwealth.

Beyond the lake, the campground's setting within a dense hardwood forest provides a peaceful and private camping environment, with well-maintained sites and modern amenities like hot showers that enhance comfort. The variety of camping options, from RV sites with electric hookups to primitive tent sites and charming cabins, ensures that every Kentuckian can find their ideal way to experience nature. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs available, Zilpo offers a holistic outdoor adventure. The potential for discounts for seniors and veterans, as well as savings on longer stays, further adds to its appeal as an accessible and value-driven choice for locals. Zilpo Campground truly embodies the natural beauty and recreational spirit of Kentucky, making it a highly recommended escape right in your own backyard.