General Burnside Island State Park Campground

For Kentuckians seeking the ultimate outdoor escape, General Burnside Island State Park Campground offers an exceptional experience on Kentucky's only island state park. Located in the scenic waters of Lake Cumberland, this campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub for recreation, relaxation, and embracing the natural beauty that our state is famous for. Reviews consistently highlight its cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and incredible access to one of the nation's largest man-made lakes.

This article is specifically crafted for you, a local Kentucky user, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of General Burnside Island State Park Campground. We will explore its unique island setting, the comprehensive services and amenities it provides, and what truly makes it a standout destination for families, anglers, golfers, and anyone looking to unwind by the water. Our goal is to equip you with all the necessary information to plan your next memorable adventure right here in the Bluegrass State.

Customer reviews paint a consistently positive picture of this state park. Visitors "Loved it. Very nice camping spot and bath house was immaculate!!" another describes it as a "very clean state park campground" with "friendly and informative" camp hosts. The cleanliness of the shower houses, with temperature-controlled, non-push-button showers, receives particular praise. While some sites, particularly "up the middle," may be closer together or less ideal for large units, the overall consensus is one of satisfaction and a desire to return. The "very nice" boat ramp providing "great access to the lake" is a significant highlight for boating enthusiasts, despite potential crowding during prime season. This feedback underscores the park's commitment to providing a high-quality camping and recreational experience, making it a reliable choice for Kentuckians.

General Burnside Island State Park encompasses 430 acres in the middle of Lake Cumberland, offering cool lake breezes and beautiful views. It's not just a campground; it's a full-service state park featuring an 18-hole golf course, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and, of course, unparalleled access to Lake Cumberland. The campground itself is extensive, with 94 sites that include utility hookups, ensuring comfort for a wide range of campers. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended stay, General Burnside Island State Park Campground provides an ideal setting for your Kentucky adventure.

General Burnside Island State Park Campground is uniquely located at 8801 US-27, Burnside, KY 42519, USA. What sets this park apart is its distinct geographical feature: it is Kentucky's only island state park, situated entirely within the expansive waters of Lake Cumberland. This creates a remarkable setting that offers panoramic lake views and a sense of being truly "away from it all," while still being highly accessible.

For Kentucky residents, reaching the park is straightforward, as it's located directly off US-27, a major north-south highway that traverses much of the state. This excellent road access makes it convenient for RVs and trailers of all sizes. Once on the island, the campground and its various amenities are well-signed and easily navigable. The park is just south of Burnside, a community that offers convenient access to groceries, supplies, and dining options, meaning campers can easily restock without venturing too far.

The island location provides a natural buffer from urban noise and light, enhancing the tranquility of the camping experience. Its position in the heart of Lake Cumberland also means immediate access to boating, fishing, and water sports, making it a central hub for aquatic adventures. For Kentuckians, General Burnside Island State Park offers an ideal blend of serene island living and practical accessibility, ensuring a smooth journey to a premier outdoor destination.

General Burnside Island State Park Campground provides a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable stay for all campers. These offerings cater to various needs, from basic utility hookups to full-service facilities:

• Utility Hookup Sites: The campground features 94 sites with utility hookups, including water and electric. Reviews also confirm the presence of sewer hookups at many sites (though some larger rigs may find certain sites less ideal for full hookups). Electric services typically include 50/30/20 amp to accommodate a variety of RVs.
• Immaculate Bathhouses and Restrooms: A consistently praised service, the park's central service buildings feature "immaculate" and "always clean" bathhouses with restrooms. Showers offer temperature control and are "always on," not push-button timed, providing a more comfortable experience.
• Dump Station: A central dump station is available for campers to dispose of grey and black water, a vital service for RVers.
• Boat Launch Ramp: The park boasts a "very nice" and extensive boat ramp, often described as five or six trailers wide. This provides "great access to the lake" for boating, fishing, and water sports. Parking for trailers, including overflow lots, is also provided.
• Playgrounds: Picnic areas are complemented by playgrounds for children, ensuring family-friendly entertainment within the park.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and grill, facilitating outdoor dining and cooking.
• On-site Golf Course: A major recreational amenity, the park features an 18-hole regulation golf course, complete with a pro shop and cart rentals. This championship course is a significant draw for golf enthusiasts.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground generally allows pets, making it a welcoming destination for those traveling with their furry companions (with standard rules regarding leashes and waste disposal).
• Firewood and Ice Sales: While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, state park campgrounds often sell firewood and ice on-site for convenience.
• Laundry Facilities: Some sources indicate that laundry facilities are available, which is a significant convenience for longer stays.

These services ensure that campers at General Burnside Island State Park have access to essential utilities and recreational opportunities, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable stay in Kentucky.

General Burnside Island State Park Campground boasts an array of unique features and highlights that make it a premier destination for Kentucky locals seeking outdoor recreation and a relaxing escape:

• Kentucky's Only Island State Park: This is a singular and defining feature. Being entirely on an island within Lake Cumberland provides a distinct sense of seclusion, unique views, and unparalleled access to the lake's abundant recreational opportunities.
• Exceptional Lake Cumberland Access: With a multi-lane (5 to 6 wide) paved boat ramp, the park offers superior and easy access to Lake Cumberland. This is a massive highlight for boaters, anglers targeting crappie, bass, and stripers, and anyone interested in water sports like tubing and jet skiing. The lake itself is one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S.
• Immaculately Maintained Facilities: A consistent theme in reviews is the outstanding cleanliness of the park, particularly the bathhouses and restrooms, described as "immaculate" and "always clean." This attention to detail significantly enhances the comfort and satisfaction of campers.
• Temperature-Controlled, Non-Timed Showers: Unlike many campgrounds with push-button timed showers, General Burnside offers showers with temperature control that are "always on." This thoughtful amenity provides a more comfortable and leisurely showering experience.
• On-Site Championship Golf Course: The park features an 18-hole regulation golf course designed by Brian Ault, recognized for its scenic beauty with panoramic views of the lake and forested hills. This is a huge draw for golfers looking to combine their love for the game with a camping trip.
• Friendly and Informative Staff: Camp hosts are frequently praised as "very friendly and informative," contributing to a welcoming and supportive environment for visitors.
• Strategic Location for Exploration: While on an island, the park's proximity to US-27 and the town of Burnside means easy access to supplies, restaurants, and other local attractions. It's also a manageable drive to other Kentucky highlights like Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: The park is set amidst the natural beauty of the Lake Cumberland area, offering cool lake breezes, lush foliage, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, providing a truly refreshing escape.
• High Potential for Return Visits: The sentiment of "likely to go back next season and will likely camp here again" from satisfied customers is a strong indicator of the park's overall quality and appeal, proving its sustained value to visitors.

These features collectively establish General Burnside Island State Park Campground as a premier destination for diverse outdoor activities and a highly recommended experience for anyone living in Kentucky.

For Kentucky residents eager to plan their visit or inquire further about General Burnside Island State Park Campground, direct contact through phone is the most reliable method. The park is part of the Kentucky State Parks system, and their official website is an excellent resource for detailed information and reservations.

• Address: 8801 US-27, Burnside, KY 42519, USA
• Phone: (606) 561-3625 (Campground Office)
• Mobile Phone: +1 606-561-3625 (This is likely the same number or direct line to the campground office)

It is always recommended to call the campground directly for the most current information regarding site availability, seasonal operating dates (typically mid-March to mid-November for camping), reservation policies, and specific amenities. For golf course inquiries, a separate pro shop number (606-561-4104) may be available through the Kentucky State Parks website. Additionally, visiting the official Kentucky State Parks website and searching for "General Burnside Island State Park" will provide comprehensive details, including online reservation options, maps, and information on park rules and regulations. This proactive approach ensures a seamless and well-planned visit to this unique Kentucky gem.

For Kentucky residents, General Burnside Island State Park Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for their camping and recreational needs. Its distinct island location within the magnificent Lake Cumberland, combined with its robust amenities and commitment to cleanliness, creates an unparalleled experience right here in our own state.

Firstly, the park's unique status as Kentucky's only island state park is a huge draw. This geographical rarity offers a special sense of escape and breathtaking lake views that are hard to find elsewhere. For Kentuckians who cherish the outdoors and water activities, the unparalleled access to Lake Cumberland via its multi-lane boat ramp means effortless days of boating, fishing for stripers, bass, and crappie, or simply enjoying the expansive waters. It truly offers a quintessential Kentucky lake experience.

Secondly, the high quality of the campground facilities directly benefits local users. The consistently praised "immaculate" bathhouses with temperature-controlled, non-timed showers provide a level of comfort often desired after a day of outdoor activity. The presence of full utility hookups at many of the 94 sites makes it convenient for RVers, ensuring a comfortable stay. This commitment to cleanliness and functionality, coupled with friendly and informative camp hosts, creates a welcoming and stress-free environment that encourages repeat visits, as noted by satisfied campers.

Finally, beyond camping and lake access, the on-site 18-hole golf course adds another layer of appeal, allowing locals to combine their love for golf with a camping getaway. The park's balance of secluded island tranquility and convenient accessibility via US-27 means it's an easy drive for many Kentuckians, making weekend trips or longer vacations feasible without extensive travel. General Burnside Island State Park Campground truly offers a diverse, high-quality, and deeply enriching outdoor experience that encapsulates the best of what Kentucky has to offer its own residents.