Buckhorn Lake campsites sit among the Appalachian foothills of eastern Kentucky where the elevation ranges from 750 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The lake spans approximately 1,230 acres with camping options scattered around its 65 miles of shoreline. Weather conditions vary significantly between seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing from your site: At Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake, campers can fish directly from their campsites. "I stayed here for two night and enjoyed my time. RV spots are a little close to your neighbor but it was quiet and peaceful. This is a great spot if you don't mind not having a network connection or Wi-Fi," notes Maze M.
Explore mountain biking trails: The surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest offers numerous trails suitable for mountain bikes. "Koomer Ridge campground has a great location for mountain biking (what we went for), hiking, fishing - anything really! The Daniel Boone Nat Forest is, I think, at its most beautiful in late spring," shares Erin H.
Watch for wildlife: Eastern Kentucky is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly elk. "This area is the best place to see Elk in the east! This is a small campground near Buckhorn Lake. It is close to the water for boating and swimming, there is a playground, but for much else you will need to travel outside the area," writes Lynn G. about Buckhorn Dam Campground.
What campers like
Quiet, remote camping: For those seeking to disconnect, several campgrounds offer peaceful settings. "This campground is a hidden gem. It's in the hills, far off the beaten path, and half of the campsites are right on the water. In addition to campsites, the park has picnic areas, bathrooms, showers, a playground, and a boat ramp," explains Damon O. about Trace Branch.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate free sites like Turkey Foot Campground. "For a free campsite this was very well maintained. There's a privy near the campsites and a creek the runs nearby. All sites have fire rings and lamp post along with picnic tables," says David M.
Recreation facilities: Many campgrounds offer additional amenities beyond basic camping. "Very nice playground, basketball court, swing, and volleyball court. We got to fish right beside our camper," writes Martha about Buckhorn Dam Campground.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region. "This area looks to be prone to flooding in the spring months when the snows thaw so time your visit accordingly. There is also no cell service here, so be prepared to unplug and unwind," cautions Damon O.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "Be aware that one of the entrances is blocked off due to a mud slide so make sure to check ahead for directions and updates on road closures," warns David M. about Turkey Foot Campground.
Bathhouse maintenance varies: Facility upkeep can be inconsistent between campgrounds. "The men's bathrooms don't appear to have been cleaned in awhile and weren't cleaned during my week there. Only half of the toilets would flush," reports a camper at Trace Branch.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Middle Fork Campground offers recreation for children. "We stayed here Mothers Day weekend. Had perfect weather and our tent site was by the creek so we could hear running water all night. It was so peaceful! The Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge area is beautiful with great hiking!" shares Mary B.
Swimming options: Multiple locations offer swimming opportunities for children. "The beach is about 100 yds long. Water was clean and clear. It might be a slight challenge walking back up the steps to the parking lot if you're not in good shape," notes Lee D.
Spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with room for kids to play. "This has ranked #1 for campgrounds for our family this season. Nestled in the mountains of eastern Kentucky, this campground has all the things your family could want to do in nature," writes Marissa G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most campgrounds have varying terrain. "We were on site 13 and it was nearly perfectly level from left to right. It had both 30 and 50 amp hookups and water (about 35psi on pressure)," notes Marissa G. about Carr Creek State Park Campground.
Size limitations: Larger rigs may struggle at some campgrounds. "Access to the camp may be tough for larger rigs as theres a few miles of windy, one-lane roads with switchbacks, drop-offs, and the occasional washout," warns Damon O. about Trace Branch.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground. "Campsites have hookups for electric and water, with a dump site nearby. There are also picnic tables and fire rings, with firewood available to purchase," explains a reviewer about facilities at Trace Branch.
