Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review: A Scenic Riverside Escape in Kentucky
Looking for a peaceful riverside retreat with excellent amenities and easy access to Kentucky’s top attractions? In our Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review, you’ll see why this hidden gem is the perfect spot for your next Bourbon Trail adventure or a home base for exploring central Kentucky! With the scenic Kentucky River and the towering palisade cliffs, Cummins Ferry RV Resort offers an ideal escape from life’s busyness. Not only is the park well-maintained and exceptionally clean, but it also boasts tons of outdoor activities—from kayaking and hiking to disc golf and playground fun—all without leaving the campground!
During our recent visit (Spring 2025), we found Cummins Ferry RV Resort to be a fantastic home base for exploring Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill, and the nearby horse country. The campground’s friendly atmosphere, clean facilities, and beautiful riverfront views made our stay relaxing and enjoyable.
However, getting there takes a bit of planning—the final stretch includes a steep, narrow road that requires cautious driving, especially for larger rigs. Fortunately, the Cummins Ferry RV Resort team is well-prepared and advises campers on the best entrance route and ideal arrival/departure times to avoid traffic issues. Additionally, Verizon cell service was nonexistent (other carriers unknown), so having Starlink or using the free campground Wi-Fi (which I found to be very slow) is recommended.
In this review, we’ll dive into what to expect at Cummins Ferry RV Resort, covering road conditions, campsite setups, amenities, and nearby attractions to help you decide if this is the perfect spot for your next RV getaway.
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR) Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review 🚐
Looking for a scenic and peaceful RV Resort near the Kentucky Bourbon Trail? Our Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review shows why this campground is a top pick for RV travelers. Cummins Ferry RV Resort is a well-maintained riverside campground with great amenities, easy access to Bourbon Country, Shaker Village, and horse farms, and plenty of on-site activities.
Quick Takeaways:
✅ Beautiful riverside setting with scenic views
✅ Well-kept amenities – bathhouse, laundry, kayak rentals, pool (seasonal)
✅ Family & pet-friendly with a large Bark Park, playground, disc golf, hiking trails
✅ Close to Bourbon Trail, Keeneland, and Herrington Lake
✅ Upcoming ice cream/food truck in 2025!
⚠️ Steep, narrow entrance road – plan arrival carefully
⚠️ No Verizon cell service – use campground Wi-Fi or Starlink
⚠️ Some sites require extra leveling
⚠️ Sewer hookup at Site 56 drained slowly – check with staff if concerned
Would We Return?
Yes! A peaceful riverside retreat that’s perfect for families, pet owners, and Bourbon Trail travelers. Just plan for the road conditions and limited cell service, and you’ll have a great stay!
Getting to Cummins Ferry RV Resort
Reaching Cummins Ferry RV Resort requires a bit of planning, but the scenic views along the Kentucky River and escape from the constant ringing of a cell phone make the journey worthwhile. The campground is located about 6 miles off Highway 127, and the best route is via Road 1988, which takes you directly to the entrance.
However, the final stretch of the road presents a challenge—a narrow, winding two-lane country road that transitions into a one-lane section near the campground. Sara and I even wondered if we were on the right road! Fortunately, we had clear directions from the campground staff and used RV Life Trip Wizard (our go-to source for RV-safe directions). If you’re towing a large rig, timing your arrival and departure is crucial to avoid meeting another RV head-on.
One of the biggest concerns for RVers is the steep downhill grade just before reaching the park. While the hill is only about a quarter-mile long, it’s extremely steep—up to an 11% grade in places! With planning and patience, this road is completely manageable. Use common sense, drive cautiously, downshift to lower gears, and control your speed—slower is definitely better! The campground staff is proactive in advising guests on the best arrival times to minimize the chances of encountering oncoming traffic.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Arrival:
✅ Follow the recommended route via Highway 127 and Road 1988.
✅ Avoid arriving after dark—the steep grade and narrow road can be tricky at night.
✅ Call ahead to ask about the best arrival times for a stress-free check-in. We received a text message with the recommended arrival and departure times!
✅ If towing a large trailer, use engine braking to control your descent on the final hill.
Despite the slightly challenging approach, the peaceful riverside setting makes the drive 100% worth it!
First Impressions & Check-In
After navigating the final stretch of road, Cummins Ferry RV Resort’s entrance greeted us with a fun surprise—a Bigfoot statue standing guard at the front gate! This quirky touch set the tone for the campground’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere.
Upon arrival, we immediately noticed the large, well-maintained Bark Park, perfect for campers traveling with dogs. Scattered around the campground, we also spotted a 9-hole disc golf course, adding to the list of on-site activities.
Checking in was a smooth process. The campground uses a gated entrance, so you’ll need access instructions before arrival. If you’re arriving after hours, the staff has a simple self-check-in system—they provide an arrival packet with all the information you need to get settled.
The main office area includes:
✅ A laundry facility
✅ A bathhouse with showers
✅ A small campground store with essentials
The friendly staff made us feel welcome right away. It’s clear they take pride in keeping the park clean, organized, and guest-friendly.
Campsites & Setup
At check-in, we took a moment to look over our map before heading into the campground so we could go straight to our site. As luck would have it, we were assigned site 56, and the RVers checking in behind us were in site 59—which meant they’d have to wait for us to park. To avoid delaying their setup, we pulled over and let them pass, a small courtesy that made the process smoother for everyone.
First Impressions: A Mix of Full-Time & Short-Term Campers
As we drove into the campground, we noticed a number of long-term campers. This makes sense—winters can be tough on campgrounds, and long-term guests provide steady cash flow. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that long-term campers naturally accumulate more “stuff” around their sites. Some were neatly kept, while others had a bit more clutter. We’re unsure how many long-term stays remain during peak season, but in the off-season, expect to see a fair number of full-time RVers.
Campground Layout & Site Options
Cummins Ferry RV Resort features a single-loop layout, making navigation simple and convenient for all types of RVs. The layout consists of:
- Pull-through sites in the center of the loop
- Back-in sites along the riverfront
The riverside sites offer the best views, featuring level gravel pads, concrete parking pads, and stamped concrete patio sites—a nice touch that adds to the comfort. Non-riverside sites, while still nice, appeared less level, so bringing leveling blocks is a good idea.
Big Rig Friendly? Yes!
If you’re traveling with a large rig, no worries! At the end of the loop, there’s a wide U-turn area, making it easy for big rigs to navigate. We had no trouble maneuvering our 40-ft fifth wheel into place.
Each site includes:
✅ 50/30 amp electric hookups
✅ Water hookups
✅ Sewer at most sites (honey wagon service available for others)
✅ Picnic table & fire pit
The campground is well-maintained, and hookups were in great condition. Water pressure was solid, and power remained steady throughout our stay.
Seasonal Considerations
Being so close to the river, the campground gets a lot of water flow, and heavy traffic takes its toll on the grass. Since we visited in early spring, the staff was actively working to regrow grass in preparation for peak season. It’s clear that they take great pride in keeping this campground in top shape!
Campground Amenities & Activities
One of the standout features of Cummins Ferry RV Resort is the variety of amenities and activities available for campers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or just a relaxing place to unwind, this campground has something for everyone.
Family-Friendly & Outdoor Fun
✅ Swimming Pool – Closed during our early spring visit, but a great feature for summer stays!
✅ New Playground – Equipped with rubber mulch for extra safety and perfect for kids to burn off energy.
✅ Disc Golf Course – A 9-hole course scattered throughout the campground.
✅ Tetherball & Community Fire Pits – Great for gathering and socializing with other campers.
Water & Trail Activities
✅ Kayak Rentals – Explore the Kentucky River at your own pace. The boat dock makes for easy launching.
✅ Hiking Trail (~2 miles) – A scenic nature trail runs through the campground, offering a great way to stretch your legs and take in the views.
✅ Picnic Tables Along the Scenic Overlook – A perfect spot for morning coffee or an evening sunset.
Pet-Friendly Features
✅ Large Bark Park – One of the first things we noticed upon arrival! A well-maintained, spacious area for dogs to play and exercise.
Other Notable Amenities
✅ Clean Bathhouse & Showers – Located near the main office, kept in great condition.
✅ Laundry Facilities – Super convenient for extended stays.
✅ Boat Dock Access – Ideal for campers who want to bring their own boats for a day on the water.
Insider Tip! 🍦
While chatting with the staff, I learned that the campground manager is converting a truck into an ice cream and food truck for 2025! This will be a fun and convenient way to grab a treat without leaving the campground. We’re excited to see this new addition next season!
The campground also hosts live music events in the summer, making it an even better destination for a fun weekend getaway!
General Park Conditions
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Cummins Ferry RV Resort is well-maintained and cared for. The staff takes great pride in keeping the campground clean and comfortable, making it a relaxing place to stay.
✅ Clean & Well-Kept Grounds – We didn’t see any trash around the park, and common areas were regularly maintained.
✅ Well-Maintained Hookups – Water, electric, and sewer hookups were all in great shape and functioned perfectly during our stay… for the most part.
✅ Steady Water Pressure & Electricity – No issues with power fluctuations or water pressure drops.
Bathhouse: Exceptionally Well-Kept
One of the standout features was the bathhouse, which was spotless every time we visited. In the men’s restroom, there were three private showers, each with a separate changing stall and clothes hangers—a thoughtful touch that made showering much more convenient. The entire facility was clean, well-stocked, and clearly maintained on a regular basis.
Sewer Hookup Experience at Site 56
While most of the utilities at Cummins Ferry RV Resort worked great, we did run into an issue with our sewer hookup at Site 56. We were able to empty one black tank, but then the flow slowed significantly and backed up. Rather than risk testing our second black tank, we switched to our grey tank and had the same issue—a slow drain and another backup. It was taking so long that we ultimately decided not to risk it and instead used a public dump station at Pilot on our way home.
This could have been a one-off issue with our particular site, but if you’re staying here, it’s worth checking with the campground about sewer flow before setup.
Other Seasonal Considerations
Being so close to the river, the campground gets a lot of water flow, and heavy traffic takes its toll on the grass. Since we visited in early spring, the staff was actively working to regrow grass in high-traffic areas—a great sign that they are preparing for peak season.
The campground also has heated hose plugs at the water spigots, which is a huge perk for winter campers. Some sites even have insulated water hookups to prevent freezing. We also saw several long-term campers, which helps sustain the park during the off-season, though a few sites had some extra clutter.
Overall, Cummins Ferry RV Resort is well-kept, clean, and thoughtfully managed—the perfect place for a peaceful camping experience!
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
If staying connected is a priority for you, Cummins Ferry RV Resort presents a bit of a challenge when it comes to cell service.
📶 Cell Service:
- We learned the hard way that our Verizon service did not work! We typically use our cell phones to communicate while backing into a site, but this time, I kept waiting for “the call” while Sara walked up to let me know—no service! EEK! She quickly switched to hand signals and guided me into our spot like a pro.
- Pro Tip: If you need to communicate while parking, connect to the campground Wi-Fi and use FaceTime Audio or Wi-Fi Calling.
💻 Campground Wi-Fi:
- The park offers free Wi-Fi, and while I didn’t test it extensively, it was good enough to download an updated Starlink app.
- For streaming, calls, or remote work, speeds may be limited, but it’s a great backup for basic connectivity.
🚀 Starlink to the Rescue:
- Many campers were using Starlink, and for good reason—it was by far the best option for a reliable connection.
- If you need strong connectivity, bringing your own Starlink setup is highly recommended.
- Read more about Starlink for RVers here: Starlink Review
Overall, if you don’t have Starlink or an alternate solution, expect limited cellular connectivity during your stay. For those looking to fully unplug, however, this could be a welcome break from screens!
Nearby Attractions
One of the best things about Cummins Ferry RV Resort is its prime location—perfect for exploring some of Kentucky’s top destinations. Whether you’re into bourbon, history, or outdoor adventure, there’s something nearby for everyone.
🍹 Bourbon Trail & Distilleries
Staying at Cummins Ferry puts you within easy driving distance of several iconic distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail:
✅ Woodford Reserve Distillery (30 min) – One of the most scenic and well-known distilleries in Kentucky.
✅ Wild Turkey Distillery (35 min) – Home to classic Kentucky bourbon with a rich history.
✅ Four Roses Distillery (40 min) – Known for its smooth, high-rye bourbon.
✅ Buffalo Trace Distillery (45 min) – One of the most famous names in bourbon, offering free tours.
Pro Tip: Many distilleries require advance reservations for tours—plan ahead!
🚐 Need a Ride? If you don’t want to worry about driving after bourbon tastings, Trail & Track (trail-n-track.com) picks up directly from Cummins Ferry! A great option for a stress-free Bourbon Trail experience.
🏡 Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill (25 min)
We visited Shaker Village and enjoyed walking through the main street of historic Shaker homes. You’re supposed to check in at the visitor center, but it’s not super well-marked—we didn’t, and nobody seemed to mind.
We also attempted to hike the River Trail, one of only two trails where dogs are allowed. However, the trail was poorly marked, and we wasted 30 minutes driving back and forth trying to find the right trailhead! Just as we finally got started, rain rolled in and shut us down—ARGH!
That said, Shaker Village is still worth visiting, especially for history buffs. Just be prepared for some minor signage confusion.
🐴 Horse Country & Lexington (45 min)
If you love horse farms and racing, you’re just a short drive from:
✅ Kentucky Horse Park – A must-visit for horse lovers, featuring live demonstrations and museum exhibits.
✅ Keeneland Race Track – One of the most beautiful horse racing tracks in the U.S. (Spring & Fall meets).
✅ Downtown Lexington – Great for dining, shopping, and experiencing Kentucky’s horse culture.
We HIGHLY recommend visiting Keeneland or the Kentucky Horse Park—both showcase the very best of Kentucky’s thoroughbred history!
🎣 Herrington Lake (15 min)
For fishing and boating, Herrington Lake is a great spot to:
✅ Launch a boat or rent a pontoon for a relaxing day on the water.
✅ Fish for bass, crappie, and catfish in Kentucky’s deepest lake.
✅ Visit waterfront restaurants for scenic dining.
🚤 Pro Tip: Rent a boat at Chimney Rock Marina and spend the day on the lake!
🏛 Frankfort – Kentucky’s Capital (45 min)
Take a day trip to Frankfort to explore:
✅ Kentucky State Capitol & Governor’s Mansion – Beautiful architecture and free tours.
✅ Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory – Famous for inventing bourbon balls!
✅ Salato Wildlife Education Center – A great stop for kids, featuring native Kentucky wildlife exhibits.
Whether you’re here for bourbon, horses, or outdoor fun, Cummins Ferry RV Resort is a perfect home base for exploring central Kentucky!
Final Thoughts in our Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review: Pros & Cons
After spending time at Cummins Ferry RV Resort, we can confidently say that this Cummins Ferry RV Resort Review highlights an excellent choice for RVers seeking a peaceful, well-equipped campground. The scenic views, friendly staff, and well-kept amenities made our stay enjoyable, and it’s a perfect home base for exploring the Bourbon Trail, Shaker Village, and Kentucky’s horse country.
However, like any campground, there are a few things to keep in mind before booking. Here’s our breakdown:
✅ Pros:
✔️ Beautiful riverside location with scenic views
✔️ Well-maintained facilities (bathhouse, laundry, hookups, and grounds)
✔️ Plenty of activities – hiking, kayaking, disc golf, playground, community fire pits
✔️ Pet-friendly with a large Bark Park
✔️ Great for both short and extended stays
✔️ Convenient access to the Bourbon Trail, Keeneland, and Shaker Village
✔️ Staff is friendly and proactive about arrival times and road conditions
✔️ Upcoming ice cream/food truck addition in 2025!
❌ Cons:
⚠️ No Verizon cell service (connect to campground Wi-Fi for calls or bring Starlink)
⚠️ Steep, narrow road before arrival – requires cautious driving, especially for big rigs
⚠️ Some sites require extra leveling (non-riverside sites in particular)
⚠️ Sewer hookup at our site (56) had slow drainage – check with staff if concerned
⚠️ Some long-term sites had more clutter than others (more noticeable in the off-season)
Would We Return?
Absolutely! Cummins Ferry RV Resort is a fantastic place to relax, enjoy nature, and explore some of the best parts of Kentucky. While the steep entrance road and limited cell service require a bit of planning, the scenery, amenities, and overall experience make it well worth the effort.
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with riverfront views and easy access to Kentucky’s best attractions, Cummins Ferry RV Resort is highly recommended!
About Us
We are Mike and Sara, and our kids and dog are exploring the US while camping in our fifth wheel! Since the late 90s we have been exploring the great outdoors one hiking trail at a time. We introduced our kids to hiking while they were young and they love exploring new places. We call Kentucky home and we find ourselves exploring the state parks, national parks, and other wildlands in our area as often as we can!
Our RV camping journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waking up close to the trails we love hiking was enough for us to get hooked on the camping lifestyle! Thanks for following our adventures!
