Boat Gunnel Group Campground
4.6514 reviews5195 Kentucky 801 South, Morehead, KY 40351
Boat Gunnel Group Campground
$144.00 - $144.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$144.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Electric sites cost $144 per night during peak season (April 11 – October 25). Rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Cave Run Lake, Boat Gunnel Group Campground offers the perfect basecamp for unforgettable group adventures in the heart of Daniel Boone National Forest. This spacious retreat welcomes large gatherings with thoughtfully designed amenities, including a modern bathhouse with hot showers, a covered picnic shelter for memorable meals together, and a classic horseshoe pit where friendly competitions unfold under towering trees. Fresh drinking water stations throughout the grounds ensure your group stays refreshed after days spent exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Boat Gunnel Group Campground is a group-oriented site with both RV and tent camping options. It features a large picnic shelter and exclusive access to the bathhouse.
Historical SignificanceStep into the legendary Daniel Boone National Forest, where centuries of Appalachian heritage meet pristine wilderness. Just a scenic drive away, the renowned Red River Gorge Geological Area beckons with its collection of over 100 natural sandstone arches—each one a masterpiece carved by time and weather. These ancient formations have witnessed countless generations of explorers, from indigenous peoples to pioneering settlers, creating a landscape rich with stories waiting to be discovered.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Kentucky's seasons at Boat Gunnel, where crisp winter days bring light dustings of snow and refreshing breezes through the forest canopy. As spring awakens the landscape, wildflowers carpet the hillsides before giving way to warm summer days perfect for swimming and water sports on Cave Run Lake. The moderate winds keep even the hottest afternoons comfortable, making peak season an ideal time for outdoor gatherings and lakeside adventures.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation within the rolling Kentucky highlands, the campground offers a perfect vantage point for exploring both lakeside and mountain adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rugged sandstone cliffs rise dramatically from emerald forests, and the shimmering waters of Cave Run Lake reflect the ever-changing sky. The campground sits within a natural amphitheater of rolling hills, where morning mist dances through towering hardwoods and evening light paints the cliff faces in shades of gold and amber. This stunning backdrop of the Cumberland Plateau creates endless opportunities for photography, contemplation, and connection with nature.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of the Cumberland Plateau, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a wonderland of steep forested slopes, towering sandstone cliffs, and mysterious narrow ravines. Within Daniel Boone National Forest, this rugged terrain tells a story millions of years in the making—from prehistoric seas to the patient work of wind and water that carved today's dramatic landscape. Each hiking trail reveals new geological treasures, from hidden rock shelters to panoramic overlooks showcasing the region's distinctive topography.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible features such as a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers, a picnic shelter with electricity, and designated tent pads. However, specific details about ADA compliance are not provided.
Sites SizeThe group campground includes spacious areas for both RVs and tents. Users noted the presence of two electrical posts supporting 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110-volt outlets, as well as space for multiple travel trailers and tent setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is highly private, with gated access. A user review remarked, 'The privacy is the best, being able to close the gate and not have to worry about cars coming in where the kids are riding their bikes and playing.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for groups due to private accommodations and spacious tent and RV sites.
Best CampsitesGroup Standard Electric sites are highlighted in user reviews as ideal for large groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit and up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity not clearly stated.
Groups
The group site can accommodate both RVs and tents, with space for multiple travel trailers and about 10 tent sites. Each tent site offers a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern pole. A user mentioned, 'there is space for about 10 tent sites' and praised the layout and privacy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes 10 tent sites and space for RVs; layouts include tent pads, fire rings, tables, and lantern poles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 11 to October 25 during peak seasons. Closed for bookings outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; sites are reservation only.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee. Additional reservation fees are non-refundable. Modifications are allowed with a $10 change fee if dates differ entirely.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of outdoor activities are available at Boat Gunnel Group Campground and the surrounding area. Campers have access to trails such as the Boat Gunnel Shoreline Trail, the Oak Ridge Trail, and the Wildlife Trail. Recreational opportunities on Cave Run Lake include sailing, fishing, and boating, among others.
Hiking
Scenic trails near the campground include the Boat Gunnel Shoreline Trail, the Oak Ridge Trail, and the Wildlife Trail, offering hiking opportunities for varying skill levels.Fishing
Cave Run Lake is a prime fishing destination, known for being home to Kentucky's state record Muskie.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Cave Run Lake, accessible via nearby Twin Knobs Campground. A review highlighted the enjoyment of tying boats to the bank for convenience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Water sports such as sailing are popular in the area, as noted in a review about the '44th Grand Annual Regatta' held nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Charcoal grills and fire pits available.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNone explicitly stated in the source material.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Morehead Office Visitor Center (~13 miles away) for ranger services. Nearest hospital and police stations not clearly specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11 to October 25.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific locations or schedules are not detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Cave Run Lake, known for lake activities including boating and fishing.
Common complaintsSome reviews criticize unclear rules and difficulty reserving due to high popularity.
HostHosts are praised for cleanliness and assistance. "Ken is a fabulous host" and "Laura, was the most personable, helpful host we’ve ever encountered.”
Campground Map
5195 Kentucky 801 South, Morehead, KY 40351
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Accessible via paved roads; no seasonal closures mentioned. 8.4 miles south of Interstate 64 exit 133.Nearby places
Lexington (~58 miles, ~1 hour drive)
Morehead (~13 miles, ~20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
No specific information provided about grocery or camping supply stores
nearby Twin Knobs and Zilpo campgrounds offer dump stations, boat ramps, and beach areas at an additional cost.
Camper Reviews
4.7
14 reviews
Boat Gunnel Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from users, with highlights on its privacy, cleanliness, and suitability for group events. The bathhouse and the presence of a friendly camp host are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, private and gated access, availability of showers and flush toilets, group-friendly layout, and picturesque surroundings near Cave Run Lake. Users also...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include unclear rules regarding usage (e.g., whether it's exclusively for groups or open to individual campers) and occasional maintenance problems with the showers.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book early to secure a reservation, as the campground is highly sought after. Bring extension cords and adapters if using electrical hookups, as noted by users managing multiple RVs. Consider using...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in the warmer months (spring and summer) due to its proximity to Cave Run Lake and associated activities.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The privacy is the best, being able to close the gate and not have to worry about cars coming in where the kids are riding their bikes and playing." - Karen P. "Clean and well taken care of! Our...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground is specifically suited for groups, offering a gated area, multiple electrical hookups, and tent sites. A user review noted, 'there are only two posts, each with a 50, 30, and 110...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
While specific ADA-compliant features are not detailed, the campground's gated access and flat terrain make it more manageable for groups.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025