Are fires allowed at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Paragon Dispersed Camping Area have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Paragon Dispersed Camping Area does not have wifi.

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Activities

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Dispersed Camping

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

7 Reviews

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, near Clearfield, Kentucky, offers a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the frills of traditional campgrounds. This spot is perfect for campers who appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and don’t mind a little roughing it, as it features no amenities beyond pit toilets and a few fire rings.

Visitors often rave about the stunning views of Cave Run Lake and the surrounding forest. Many enjoy fishing and kayaking right from their sites, making it a great place for water activities. Just remember to bring your own water and toilet paper, as these essentials aren’t provided.

While the area is generally peaceful, some campers have noted that it can get a bit busy, especially after holidays. It’s a good idea to come prepared to clean up after others, as some sites have been left with trash. As one camper wisely pointed out, “Carry it in, folks, and then carry it out.”

If you’re up for a little adventure and don’t mind a more primitive setup, Paragon is a solid choice for a weekend escape. Just be ready to enjoy the natural beauty and take care of the environment while you’re at it!

Description

US Forest Service

Daniel Boone National Forest

Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

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Location

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area is located in Kentucky

Directions

From I-64, take exit 137 (KY 32) toward Morehead. Turn right on US 60. In less than one mile, turn left onto KY 519. Continue to follow KY-519 south for several miles. Turn left on Forest Service Road 947. The campground is on the right.

Coordinates

38.04871792 N
83.39535182 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

WiFi
Unknown
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Unknown
T-Mobile
Unknown

Site Types

Tent Sites
Dispersed

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 7 min from Huntington
1 hr 9 min from Lexington
2 hrs 2 min from Cincinnati

Kevin C.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 19, 2024

Beautiful location just off a paved road

We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake.

Our first morning a heron was fishing in the lake less than 100 feet from us. We saw him catch a fish. There were woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize.

The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!

The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down.

While there we saw one group hang a deer carcass in a tree. Good times!

SiteLakeside

Month of VisitOctober

(7) View All

Dawn P.

Scout

Reviewed Oct. 10, 2020

Scary

This place was trashy. Cars came and went all night. People are living there. There were people hunting something until 2 am with flashlights. (Guessing frogs)

Don’t go

Month of VisitOctober

Shari G.

Legend

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2020

Beautiful & Free, but Lots of Trash Around

We simply love camping in the National Forest Service campgrounds, most often because they are isolated, beautiful, inexpensive and usually, very quiet. We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer. With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group.

There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites. There were portable pit-toilets (bring your own TP, if you want to have some). There are no trash cans or dumpsters in the area, so plan accordingly. The main activity of folks in the campground seemed to be fishing, so I assume the fishing is good, or at least the trying is. But launching a kayak for an easy paddle about the lake couldn’t be easier from your site.

We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash. It’s discouraging to love these camping areas and find them in such a rough state after others use them. It’s a good reminder to come prepared to pick up after yourself and others who aren’t as thoughtful. We spent a good hour cleaning up the area, and filled one section of our truck bed with it when we left. Carry it in, folks, and then carry it out.

Month of VisitJuly

(9) View All

Wayne H.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 1, 2019

Broke campers dream

This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups. Most spots have boat in access! Will definitely be going back! Located in Morehead, KY.

(27) View All

Sandra M.

Scout

Reviewed Aug. 26, 2019

Beautiful place

It is a beautiful campground.. just make sure you clean up after your selves so the next person doesn't have to clean your mess! If you leave food and garbage out you will attract Bears.. Always remember we are in their home so yes they will come for food! Just keep your area tidy and clean and take your trash with you when you leave..

Dylane S.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 22, 2019

Not always accessible

June 2019 was not able to access the campsite due to a gate blocking the road.

Lynn G.

Ranger

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2017

Dispersed camping in Daniel Boone National Forest

The National Forest has hiking, multi-use trails, and boating (there is a ramp nearby). This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment.

Yay: Close to the river, on the less busy side of the forest. Drive along the road and decide which campsite to stay at. All free.

Nay: Sadly, there was a lot of trash at all the sites. Not all sites have fire rings. There are only 7 sites so and no reservations so you may end up out of luck (but there are many other campgrounds in the area). Can be very muddy!

Surprise: call or visit the ranger office before entering the forest to get the latest recommendations for good trails and where to see wildlife!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fires allowed at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area?
Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.
Does Paragon Dispersed Camping Area have wifi?
No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Paragon Dispersed Camping Area does not have wifi.

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