Dispersed camping near Stearns, Kentucky provides primitive outdoor experiences in the Daniel Boone National Forest region at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching the high 80s and winters dropping to the low 30s with occasional snow. Most dispersed sites are located on former logging roads or creek access points with limited level terrain for camping setups.
What to do
Creek swimming opportunities: During summer months, Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 offers refreshing water activities. "There are three dispersed camp sites along this road. We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing," notes camper Pam B.
Wildlife observation: Swain Ridge offers excellent star gazing and bat watching opportunities. "It was wonderfully secluded... There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing! We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night," reports Sierra E.
Boating access: Redbird Boat Ramp provides water access for small watercraft. "Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities. The sky was beautiful. Would go again. About ten miles off 75," shares Kody Bear A.
What campers like
Campfire opportunities: Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road sites include fire pits for evening ambiance. "One picnic table and fire pit. Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening," explains camper Pam B.
Winter camping options: Trace Branch remains accessible even in snowy conditions for properly equipped campers. "Visited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping... We left our site unattended for hours to check out the streams and rivers and nothing was missing," reports Matthew H.
Seclusion from crowds: Most dispersed sites around Stearns provide quiet camping experiences with limited neighbors. At Jellico Creek, campers typically find ample space between sites, with the first location offering room for multiple camping setups while maintaining privacy between groups.
What you should know
Ground hazards: Swain Ridge has natural challenges to be aware of. "We did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there," warns Sierra E.
Designated site restrictions: Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA) has fire rings but may contain debris. "The spots are pretty spacious but there's no privacy... There are fire pits, mine is full of garbage," notes Rachel G.
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads that may challenge certain vehicles. "Dirt rd I, washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow. My opinion not for 5th wheel. No cell for miles," cautions Michael W. about routes in the Catoosa WMA area.
Tips for camping with families
Ground preparation strategies: At certain sites like Swain Ridge, tall grass may need attention. "We used the car to 'mow' the grass down, and set up fine," shares Sierra E., demonstrating a practical solution for preparing your campsite.
Seasonal planning: For families, timing can greatly impact the camping experience. "This area is beautiful almost all times of the year! Plenty of wildlife and lots of shady areas," notes John B. about Bi-Color Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Families camping in the area should expect close encounters with various wildlife. "Also a random heard of cattle strols through every now and again... Lots of wildlife sounds at night," reports Robert W. from Bi-Color Campground.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Small to medium RVs can access many dispersed sites, though setup locations are limited. "It's nice and private. Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs," notes Kody Bear A. about Redbird Boat Ramp.
Hunter awareness: During hunting seasons, RV campers should expect company at certain sites. "Rifle season starts Nov 20. I'm 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here... Lots of RVs," shares Rachel G. about Bi-Color Campground in the Catoosa WMA.
Weather planning: RV campers should prepare for potentially muddy conditions that can complicate parking and setup. "This camp is perfect for the fam as it can accommodate RV sized vehicles. Only word of caution is that the ground can get a bit muddy, so try to find something dry," advises Nicholas at Bi-Color Campground.
