Eastern Kentucky camping around Staffordsville centers on several state parks and recreation areas along scenic lakes and forested hills. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground offers full-hookup sites for RVs and walk-in tent camping areas near the water, while Jenny Wiley State Park provides cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options. The Daniel Boone National Forest extends through the region with additional developed campgrounds. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with select locations offering cabin rentals and glamping experiences.
Reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, particularly during the peak season from April through October. Many state park campgrounds in the area close completely during winter months, with Paintsville Lake State Park being a notable exception that remains open year-round. "The campground seems maintained fairly well. No wifi and Verizon is touchy. Out in the recreation area I had one bar and LTE though the data seemed pretty good," noted one camper about Paintsville Lake. Access roads are generally well-maintained, but some campgrounds have limited pull-through sites and narrower roads that may challenge larger RVs. Flash flooding can occur in low-lying areas during heavy rains, particularly in spring.
Lakefront camping represents the primary draw in the Staffordsville region, with several campgrounds providing direct water access. Many campsites at Paintsville Lake offer lake views, with reviewers specifically mentioning site 18 as having excellent vistas. Full hookups at reasonable rates attract longer-term visitors, especially at privately operated campgrounds like Wildcat Camping and Fishing. Bathroom facilities and amenities vary significantly between locations - Paintsville Lake receives consistent praise for cleanliness, while some reviewers report maintenance concerns at Jenny Wiley State Park. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, with one reviewer noting that raccoons frequently visit campsites, making proper food storage essential. The proximity to fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities enhances the camping experience for most visitors.
$25 - $35 / night
"We tent camped at one of the hike-in (it's a well maintained gravel path) sites at PLSP, #33. This is the first site on your way in."
"Very clean campground, the marina is great and easy access to the lake. We kayak and it was great being that close to the lake and the campsites have plenty of room."
$30 - $35 / night
"The park’s along the lake and has hiking, birding, a restaurant, and a nice surprise: an open air theatre with shows outside all summer."
"I lived in the Dewey Lake-JWSP area with family members, until 2002. Currently, I live about 10-15 minutes away from JWSP and visit the park at least once a month, depending on the weather."
$18 - $30 / night
"In my opinion the best sites are the boat in tent camping sites down the hill by the lake. The sites also run along a gravel rode that can be used to hike in."
"It's been a few years since I've visited Yatesville Lake State Park Campgrounds but it used to be a staple of my summer. The campsites are a LONG distance from each other."
$50 / night
"Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels."
"this campsite is not for the new camper, very limited on the nicer things at a campsite. but easy access to the lake. And great view"
"There is a lake nearby, and most of the other campers were boating or horseback riding. Showers and bathrooms."
$30 / night
"Grayson Lake State Park- East Kentucky. So, we had reservations for Carter Caves, but they canceled on me due to redoing the campground."
"This stunning Eastern Kentucky State Park offers spectacular views of rock formations, tree lined roads, and a stunning lake."
$31 - $105 / night
"Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer."
"E-12 was close enough to the bathrooms that it wasn’t a bad walk but we didn’t have to smell anything. Water pump was across from the campsite. Plenty of space for four tents. Sturdy pic-nic table."
$37 - $72 / night
"The sites are nice and most have direct access to the creek and beach area. Privately owned so not ruled to death like some state park campgrounds."
"There's a dollar general at the entrance."
$20 - $80 / night
"Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."
"Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."
$35 - $150 / night
"Stayed here for one night on a road trip to the Great Lakes. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere but nestled nicely on a lake with pretty water and nice scenery."
"It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it."
TravelerThis beautiful camping area owned by the US Forest service is just the spot. Fits my small camper perfectly. The sites have enough room to be enjoyed and have great gravel pads to prevent flooded tents in the rain. Add the hot shower house and it’s just what the doctor ordered.
ScoutThe twin knobs campground is well maintained - clean bathrooms, clean Campgrounds, clear lake water. Each site is fairly private and not right next to the next. Lots of trees and green around.
ScoutI love this campground as the nostalgia is strong for me. The family has been camping here for years and years but now it's my turn to take my little family camping and I'm so thankful to give them the same memories I was able to have!
East fork is always clean, polite, well maintained and kid friendly. We are very thankful to live just about an hour away for impromptu camping trips!
GuideThe first thing I would say is the bath house is the absolute cleanest bathroom I’ve seen at a campground, they are individual rooms with full doors, no men’s or women’s. This area is in the center of it all. Close to tons of trails, it’s pretty quiet, some light hwy noise but not bad. They have a water fountain in the lake, very well maintained grass, the lots are tight, only gravel, but overall it’s nice with water/ electric and they have a dump station as well. The office has wood, ice, and essentials in case you forget something. We are coming back! Oh and plan to visit the reptile zoo at the front of the park! It’s impressive!
TravelerWe were surprised to find the store open when we arrived at 6, but woman inside was a trip. She could not seem to figure out how to do anything and talked to herself the whole time. Check in took about 20-30 minutes! She was very friendly though and explained how to get to our site. Tried to get propane- first she said she didn't know how to do it, then she decided she did, but wound up being clueless. She did let us change our site because it was so far from the bathroom. We had to go down a crazy steep narrow hill to get to the lower area. Thought it might be quiet but wound up on top of a busy road. Ok for an overnight. Huge street lights over us. Sites a little junky looking.
TravelerWe got to RRG national forest campground and every spot was booked. So headed on over to Woodstock campground. I had seen this campground across from Creation Falls road. The owner is so kind and helpful. We had an awesome weekend at this primitive campground
GuideNice camp spots right right on the river. Lots of fish jumping and minimal traffic noise. I will say, there was some trash and lots of broken glass (watch your doggos so they don’t cut their paws!!). Overall really enjoyed the spot.
GuideThis is a great place to camp if you are looking for a local area driving distance to the mini trails in the gorge. There are not very many mature trees., and the highway is very loud. However, they have full hook ups, and the lots are very spacious., they have an amazing restaurant called toads in the back of the camp, we had amazing food and drink drinks there, and they have beautiful outdoor seating.
ScoutThe spots are pretty close, but expected from what the map showed when we booked. While they are close there is enough room to make yourself at home. Nice new picnic tables and clean fire pits! It rained while we camped and there was some water pooling in areas.
Camping options near Staffordsville, Kentucky cluster along several waterways at elevations between 600-900 feet in the eastern foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences seasonal flash flooding during spring rains with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F and high humidity. Winter camping availability remains limited to a few year-round facilities, with most campgrounds closing completely from November through March.
Kayaking at Grayson Lake: The lake features unique rock formations and waterfalls accessible only by water. "Kayaking spots on Grayson Lake... Going to 'The Grotto' aka Clifty Falls is a must (4.5 mile round trip). The same boat ramp has a decent place to get in and swim," notes one visitor to Grayson Lake State Park Campground.
Boat-in tent camping: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites accessible only by water. At Yatesville Lake State Park Campground, "the best sites are the boat in tent camping sites down the hill by the lake. The sites also run along a gravel rode that can be used to hike in. All sites throughout have fine gravel pad, picnic table, a fire ring and access to numerous bathrooms."
Natural bridge hiking: The area features multiple natural stone bridges and arches. "The park is amazing and I have no idea how it took me 39yrs to find it so close to home. The caves are absolutely amazing and the park has some of the best natural bridges I have ever seen," reports a camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park.
Backcountry permits: Several parks offer permits for backcountry camping with specific requirements. One camper at Jenny Wiley State Park notes: "Make sure to get a permit for Horn Hollow on a day of no rain or else you will not be able to enter it."
Secluded lakefront sites: Many campers prefer water-accessible sites away from crowded areas. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, "We stayed in one of the 'premium' sites, right on the water F19. The view was incredible. The campground was quiet and the facilities clean. Perfect spot."
Well-spaced sites: Campgrounds with ample space between sites receive consistently positive reviews. A camper at Zilpo Campground noted: "Great campground with a lot of privacy!" Another mentioned: "Campground is 'ok' if you just are camping, and not expecting much else to do."
Year-round camping options: While most campgrounds close seasonally, a few remain open all year. Wildcat Camping and Fishing offers year-round accommodations with "Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels."
Fishing opportunities: Many campers specifically visit for fishing. "If you like catfishing, this is your Lake," notes one visitor to Jenny Wiley State Park about Dewey Lake, while another warns: "The water is muddy a lot."
Campsite terrain variations: Many campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. At Grayson Lake State Park Campground, "Bring all the leveling blocks you own because very few sites are level and most are very sloped. Also bring a very long hose/ hose extensions as the sites are well-spaced with water between them."
Limited cell service: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception," reports a camper at Jenny Wiley State Park.
Wet conditions: Rain drainage varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. At Falls Campground, a camper noted the comfortable conditions, stating "The people that work here are so very nice. I love the relaxed chill atmosphere, I stay in a certain place everytime with a great view of the waterfall right out my tent door."
Water conditions: Lake water quality varies considerably. One camper reported: "We did reserve a small boat and went swimming off of it but do regret it after a UTI and seeing all the trash and debris in the lake. I've never seen so much garbage in a lake in my life."
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better recreational facilities for children. Falls Campground receives praise as "Very family friendly. Clean. Fantastic staff. Every time we think of trying a new place, we go back here instead. They also have a fantastic Halloween themed October."
Private campground advantages: Commercially operated campgrounds often have fewer regulations. One camper noted: "We avoid many state parks due to the amount of rules and being stacked right on top of others. Once we discovered Falls, we only camp here. Kids can be seen from all spots, all over the campground."
Wildlife precautions: Wildlife encounters require appropriate preparation. A long-time visitor to the area warns: "DON'T DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!"
Seasonal programming: Some campgrounds offer special activities during peak seasons. One camper at Twin Knobs notes "The site is good but remember to bring sleeping pad due to you only for site for tent," indicating the rocky terrain requires additional padding.
Hookup locations: Water and electrical connections at some campgrounds require planning. At Carter Caves State Park Campground, "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
Limited pull-through options: Most campgrounds have back-in sites with varied accessibility. "Full hookups at Wildcat Camping and Fishing could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels," according to a recent visitor.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump facilities. One camper warned: "Dump station overflowed and closed," demonstrating that facilities can sometimes be compromised.
Seasonal road conditions: Weather impacts campground access considerably. A camper reported: "It didn't help that there was also 5"-8"+/- rain over the 3 days. In 8 years never experience such a mess," highlighting the impact of weather on camping conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Staffordsville, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Staffordsville, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Staffordsville, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Staffordsville, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Staffordsville, KY is Paintsville Lake State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 14 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Staffordsville, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Staffordsville, KY.
What parks are near Staffordsville, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Staffordsville, KY that allow camping, notably Dewey Lake and Grayson Lake.
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