Buckhorn Lake's RV camping options extend beyond the immediate lakeshore into surrounding counties within a 70-mile radius. The region sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet in the Appalachian foothills, creating diverse camping terrain. Winter camping remains viable at several year-round facilities where temperatures rarely drop below 20°F, though mountain access requires caution during icy conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: Thompson RV Park offers proximity to river fishing with "large grassy area, well maintained. Near a rivers edge, playground, walking track, dog park, soccer fields...all right on or beside grounds" according to reviewer Marcy B.
Hiking opportunities: 4 Guys RV Park provides excellent access to regional trails. "If you are looking for a campground that is near all of the hiking trails and sights in and around the red river gorge this is the place to be!" notes Jen K.
Coal mining history: Portal 31 RV Park positions campers directly across from a historical exhibition mine. "If you want to see the history of coal production in southeast Kentucky, this is the place," writes Grant M., adding it's just "4 miles from KY highpoint, Black Mountain."
What campers like
Seasonal swimming: Leeman Field Park includes pool access with campground fees. Julie notes, "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees), tennis courts, and disc golf course."
Proximity to trails: Campers appreciate connectivity to walking paths. "There is a gorgeous walking and biking trail beginning at Leeman Field that winds along the river leading to a local grocery store and restaurants," mentions Julie about Leeman Field.
Off-road recreation: Several campgrounds cater to ATV enthusiasts. Brian R. observed that Harlan County Campground "definitely caters to the SxS and off road crowd. Sites are relatively level and there is a decent amount of space between them."
What you should know
Campground vs. parking area: Westgate RV Campground offers utilities but limited amenities. One camper noted: "This place is not an RV park. This is only a parking place behind buildings just off the main road. Yes they do have hook ups but this is not the nicest area and you are sharing a pool with the Budget Inn hotel guests."
Winter closures: While some campgrounds operate year-round, many close seasonally. Duncan C. found Leeman Field Park "nestled nicely in the hills in the Pennington gap" with "lots to do within easy driving distance."
Noise considerations: Construction and road noise affect some locations. Tim mentioned at Westgate: "The only problem right now is construction going on behind it... Also you do get road noise as it is at the intersection of two main Kentucky roads."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground," notes Christy W. about 4 Guys RV Park.
Swimming options: Jessie Lea RV Park offers water recreation with creek access. Lauren J. describes it as "Very beautiful place!! Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground."
Activity variety: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "Loads of amenities; clean/hot showers, playgrounds, pool, full hookups, campstore, fire rings & picnic tables at each sight and nice views," writes Jen K. about her stay at 4 Guys RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. Anne D. notes that at 4 Guys RV Park, "Large level sites. Commercial campground, so sites are close without trees to separate."
Shade availability: Tree cover is limited at newer facilities. "My only complaint, and I will say it is a very small complaint — it must be a relatively new park because there are no shade trees," mentions Raven M. about 4 Guys RV Park.
Maneuverability: Check turning radius and site dimensions before arrival. Brian R. found at Harlan County Campground that "Backing in is quite easy as there is plenty of room to maneuver."
