Waitsboro Campground
4.2789 reviews500 Waitsboro Road, Somerset, KY, 42501, USA
Waitsboro Campground
$16.00 - $42.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$42.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 for tent-only non-electric sites to $42 for group standard electric sites.
About this campground
Perched along the stunning shores of Lake Cumberland, Waitsboro Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover Kentucky's hidden waterfront gem. This intimate campground serves as your gateway to endless adventures on one of the Southeast's premier recreational lakes, where anglers cast lines into trophy bass waters and boaters explore hidden coves beneath towering bluffs. While the dramatic hillside setting creates some adventurous approaches to campsites and wayfinding can be a wilderness puzzle, visitors consistently praise the pristine conditions and breathtaking scenery that make every challenge worthwhile.
Waitsboro Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including RV, tent, and group camping. Waterfront sites are available, offering scenic views.
Historical SignificanceStep into a region steeped in American history, where the waters of Lake Cumberland hold stories of the past beneath their surface. Just a short journey away, General Burnside Island State Park preserves the legacy of the Civil War era, offering visitors a chance to explore Kentucky's rich heritage between outdoor adventures. This area serves as a living testament to both natural beauty and the historical tapestry of southern Kentucky.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Kentucky's temperate climate throughout an extended recreation season that stretches from early spring through late fall. Mother Nature occasionally flexes her muscles here, with unexpected rainfall and the rare unseasonal flood adding drama to the landscape and creating ever-changing camping conditions that keep each visit unique. The long warm months invite endless days on the water, while crisp autumn evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings.
ElevationThe campground's dramatic topography creates a natural amphitheater overlooking Lake Cumberland, with sites carved into hillsides that rise and fall with the ancient contours of the land. This elevated vantage point, characteristic of the region's rolling terrain, rewards campers with commanding views while providing a moderate-altitude escape that keeps summer temperatures comfortable and breezes flowing through the forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of mature hardwood forests where ancient oaks and maples create a living canopy overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. From nearly every vantage point, the sapphire expanse of Lake Cumberland's main channel stretches to the horizon, its waters reflecting sky and forest in an ever-changing canvas. Wildlife thrives in this protected habitat, where deer browse at dawn and diverse bird species serenade campers throughout the day.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of southern Kentucky's distinctive karst landscape, Waitsboro Campground showcases the region's geological wonders along the shores of Lake Cumberland—an engineering marvel that ranks as the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. The surrounding mature hardwood forests cloak ancient limestone formations and rolling hills that have been shaped over millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for this waterfront paradise where expansive lake views meet Kentucky's timeless mountain beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets and showers are available. There are no specific mentions of additional accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are generally described as small to medium. Some sites require tight maneuvers and have steep inclines.
Sites PrivacySites are staggered for privacy and offer scenic views of the lake. Some areas are described as clustered.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 6 is recommended for smaller rigs due to its direct water views, while Site 15 is highlighted for its challenging driveway grade but scenic surroundings.
Best CampsitesSites 6 and 15 are frequently praised for their views and location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests mentioned in user reviews.
Groups
The group shelter is non-electric and available for $35 per night. Details on maximum occupancy are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized into loops and staggered horizontally and vertically, promoting privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 22, 2025, to October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is allowed, but availability updates are not provided on-site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are permitted anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Cumberland provides a wealth of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The Black Walnut Nature Trail is a self-guided educational trail near the lake office. The campground's proximity to the lake makes it ideal for fishing and water activities.
Hiking
The Black Walnut Nature Trail offers a self-guided educational experience. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with Lake Cumberland home to largemouth, smallmouth, white, and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish, and walleye.Boating
Boating is popular, and a boat ramp is available on-site. Nearby Burnside Marina offers additional boating facilities, including rentals.Wildlife viewing
The campground's wooded surroundings provide a habitat for wildlife, but specific species are not detailed.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and other non-motorized water sports are likely given the lake's size and facilities, but are not explicitly detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but users must bring their own firewood as none is sold on-site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated but user reviews note a generally peaceful atmosphere.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep hills and uneven campsites are noted hazards, especially for larger rigs. Flooding has also been mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest hospital: Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital (approximately 5 miles away). Police station and ranger services are available in Somerset.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - October 12, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their location or pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Cumberland, with some sites waterfront.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include difficulty maneuvering large rigs, unclean restrooms in certain locations, and poorly placed dump stations.
HostHosts are generally described as helpful and friendly, although some reviews mention inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
500 Waitsboro Road, Somerset, KY, 42501, USA
Driving directionsFrom Somerset Kentucky, take Highway 27 south for 5 miles. Turn right on Waitsboro Road and follow signs to the campground.
The road leading to the campground includes steep hills and sharp turns, presenting challenges for larger rigs. User reviews mention faded signage and a lack of clear direction, causing confusion for some visitors.Nearby places
Somerset: approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes driving.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as gas are available nearby. Wendy's and a gas station are mentioned in user reviews as close by. For firewood, visitors had to visit a Kroger store.
Camper Reviews
4.3
89 reviews
Waitsboro Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Waitsboro Campground receives mixed reviews with an average general sentiment of 4.12. Positive highlights include scenic views, clean facilities, and a peaceful environment. Common complaints involve poorly designed dump station, steep and uneven campsites, and inadequate signage.
Review Summaries
Based on 89 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic views of Lake Cumberland are frequently praised. Clean and well-maintained bathrooms are another highlight. Many users appreciate the quiet and peaceful nature of the campground.
Based on 89 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include difficulties maneuvering RVs due to steep and uneven sites, a poorly located dump station, and inadequate signage. Some users also mention issues with cleanliness and lake...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites. Smaller RVs are better suited for this campground. Consider alternative locations for dumping RV waste due to the challenging dump station. Plan for...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended due to fewer visitors and comfortable weather. Summer reviews highlight lake activities but also mention site flooding and debris after heavy rains.
Based on 89 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The view was wonderful - the only redeeming thing about this campground.' 2. 'Bathrooms were kinda dirty, we took Clorox wipes and cleaned them.' 3. 'Loved being able to see the lake from the...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is noted for its steep incline and backing challenges. Site 22 is described as secluded with lake views. Site 7 is mentioned as soft and unlevel but has a great view.
Based on 89 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and showers are available. No reviews specifically address experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 89 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific comments on pet-friendly features are available.
Based on 89 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025