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Best Campgrounds near Prestonsburg, KY

460 Reviews

Prestonsburg, Kentucky serves as a gateway to several established campgrounds in eastern Kentucky's mountainous terrain. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations along Dewey Lake, while Paintsville Lake State Park Campground provides year-round camping facilities approximately 20 miles north. German Bridge Campground at Dewey Lake and Yatesville Lake State Park Campground round out the developed options within a 30-mile radius. Most established sites feature electric hookups, drinking water, and picnic tables, with several offering full RV connections including sewer hookups.

Seasonal operation affects availability throughout the region, with many state park campgrounds operating from April through October. Jenny Wiley and Yatesville Lake campgrounds specifically note April 1 to October 31 seasons, while Paintsville Lake remains open year-round. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds provide showers, toilets, and sanitary dump stations, though amenities vary by location. Cell service can be limited in the more remote areas, especially in the valleys between mountains. One camper noted of Jenny Wiley State Park: "Zero cell reception and no wifi. No television reception either. Almost everyone's site was not flat and took a lot of work to get campers close to level."

The region's campgrounds offer varied experiences based on proximity to water features. Lakeside camping dominates the area, with Dewey Lake, Paintsville Lake, and Yatesville Lake providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Several campgrounds maintain boat ramps for easy water access. Campers frequently mention the natural beauty of the surrounding Appalachian foothills as a highlight. Sites at Jenny Wiley State Park include access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, with the park known for its elk population. A visitor commented that the park has "hiking, birding, a restaurant, and a nice surprise: an open air theatre with shows outside all summer." While most developed campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, site sizes and levelness vary considerably, with some locations better suited to smaller rigs or tent setups.

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Best Camping Sites Near Prestonsburg, Kentucky (68)

    1. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auxier, KY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 889-1790

    $35 - $45 / 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."

    2. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 297-8488

    $25 - $40 / 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."

    3. German Bridge - Dewey Lake

    4 Reviews
    Dewey Lake, KY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 789-4521

    "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."

    4. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 673-1492

    $20 - $32 / 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."

    5. Wildcat Camping and Fishing

    2 Reviews
    Flatgap, KY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 265-3629

    $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."

    6. German Bridge Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Prestonsburg, KY
    2 miles

    7. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $28 - $94 / 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."

    8. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    48 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / night

    "We've some spent time now in Kentucky and Red River Gorge area is one of favorites in this state. The campground is good pretty simple."

    "It is located just off Exit 11 on the Bert T Combs Parkway (the highway that runs through the area, which is a beautiful drive itself)."

    9. Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Breaks, VA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 865-4413

    $20 - $38 / night

    "It was surrounded by a lot of trees, so it had shade. It was a short walk to the bathhouse which was very clean with nice showers. 

    The campground has 4 different loops."

    "A wonderful getaway when you want to be away from it all. Several campground sections to choose from with primitive sites to full hookup with electric, water, and sewer."

    10. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Prestonsburg, KY

128 Photos of 68 Prestonsburg Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Prestonsburg, KY

460 Reviews of 68 Prestonsburg Campgrounds

  • Carol J.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    Great spot for nature lovers

    This is a very well maintained park, with many hiking and overlook opportunities.  White tail deer are frequent, and very tame.  Bathrooms are clean and well maintained.  Lots of hot water and water pressure in the showers.  There is a pool and waterpark on site, and a gift shop and camp store.  Was disappointed that the Visitor Center was only open on the weekend (and it was still prior to Labor Day).  Staff was helpful and friendly, although there was no camp host on site on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday nights.

  • Lisa Horton
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    We took off for 4 days and decided to go to the Breaks and fish, camp out, and just enjoy our time with one another.

    It was a very nice camping spot and it also had a grill that we used to cook out. They also have a restaurant in the park that has some of the best food I have ever ate.

  • Adriyel P.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Ashland Huntington West KOA

    Good Basic KOA

    Plenty of spots, including pull thrus. More affordable than some of the nearby state “resort” parks, though without much in the way of shade or scenery. Staff is very kind, helpful, and understanding. Perfect for an overnight.

  • Paul K.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Fantastic.

    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.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Chief Logan State Park Campground

    Lots of activities

    Small sites but full hookups. Many amenities. multiple pools in the area, mini golf, animal exhibit although closed when we were there. Both trails we went on weren’t maintained well but the area was pretty.

  • Cynthia K.
    Jun. 24, 2025

    Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    Very Nice State Park!

    Grayson Lake State Park- East Kentucky. So, we had reservations for Carter Caves, but they canceled on me due to redoing the campground. I was fortunate to find a site at Grayson Lake for Wednesday & Thursday night. 

    This is a very nice campground at a small state park roughly 10 miles from Carter Caves. Most of it is campground & golf course, with 2 trails.

     Grayson Lake has 71 sites with water& electric. There's a dump station. There's 2 playgrounds. 2 bathhouses. They are on the high side of state park clean. I didn't see any spider webs or bugs.

     The area was meticulously mowed & clean- no trash at the site or fire pit. The staff at check were friendly & helpful. 

    We were at site 19 close to the bathhouse. A nice site, but that row had full sun. There were many nice sites, but many had a serious incline. Stay away from site 39 - that has a good view of the wastewater treatment plant!

    Grayson Lake is part of a larger area managed by the US Army Corp of Engineers. There's a lot of boating & fishing. We had a good time & if in the area would stay again!

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    My Eastern KY Fav!

    This campground is just as I'd hoped--small, clean, and peaceful. The sites are spacious and level. The surrounding hills and lake are gorgeous.

    The campground has many full hookup sites. I checked out the bath house: it's the cleanest I've ever seen! Laundry facilities are available. There is a playground for children.

    Lots of boating and fishing occurred.

    Both the staff and the other campers were friendly and considerate. Quiet hours were observed.

    We've already made reservations for next season!

  • Polly J.
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Carr Creek State Park Campground

    Disgusting

    Bbathrooms are disgusting.  Half don't work and handicap doesn't have lock. Only 1 shower worked. Water leaking from toilet and sink. The beach wasn't open so it couldn't have been beach water. It's been like this for 5 years.  They don't seem to care.

  • paul C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    Hiker's dream

    Wonderful park for pretty much everything from zip line to water park, and to some of the most gorgeous trails in the region. The campground was extremely clean including bathrooms and showers that are immaculate. There are tons of sites to accommodate pretty much any rig. Nice camp store with firewood and propane refill. Most site are full hookup, but not all.

Guide to Prestonsburg

Camping near Prestonsburg, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails in the area. Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground rave about the "great hiking trails leaving directly from the campground." The trails lead into the stunning Red River Gorge, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: If you enjoy water activities, Zilpo Campground is ideal. One visitor mentioned it’s "perfect for kayaking and fishing," with some campsites even having private beaches.
  • Caving: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can explore various caves. A reviewer highlighted the "abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground," making it a great spot for caving enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campers at Zilpo Campground appreciate the "more privacy and more primitive" campsites. This makes it a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park have noted that the "staff cleans the bathhouse every hour," ensuring a pleasant experience.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground have praised the "very nice people" who manage the campground, making their stay more enjoyable.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult."
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Middle Fork Campground have reported noise from nearby highways. One reviewer noted, "The biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill."
  • Site Size: Some sites can be small, especially at Middle Fork Campground. A camper mentioned, "Spaces are pretty tight," so it's good to check site dimensions before booking.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area. A family-friendly reviewer said, "Good level spots. Quiet the first week of April."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. Campers at Carter Caves State Resort Park enjoyed hiking and caving, saying, "We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with clean facilities. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "The campground itself is nice, sites aren’t very level side to side or front to back."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: RVers at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA noted that some sites are not quite level. One camper said, "They were generous with gravel so the drainage is good!"
  • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're staying at a campground near highways, like Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, be ready for some traffic noise. A reviewer mentioned, "There is car and truck noise all day long and all night too."
  • Utilize Amenities: Many campgrounds offer great amenities. Campers at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA appreciated the "family restrooms that are very nice and comfortable."

Camping near Prestonsburg, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Prestonsburg, KY?

Several campgrounds serve the Prestonsburg area. Zilpo Campground offers spacious sites and is often less crowded than nearby alternatives. Twin Knobs Recreation Area provides lakeside camping with amenities including clean bathrooms, a boat ramp, and a camp store. Other options include German Bridge Campground on Dewey Lake for a more rustic experience, Carr Creek State Park Campground with its peaceful setting, and Wildcat Camping and Fishing for those seeking a more private experience. For a unique eastern Kentucky adventure, consider Kingdom Come State Park with its six well-maintained tent sites and nearby hiking trails.

What are the best camping spots within driving distance of Prestonsburg?

Within a reasonable drive from Prestonsburg, you'll find several excellent camping options. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground is the closest option, though sites can be challenging to level. For a stunning outdoor experience, head to Grayson Lake State Park Campground, located about 10 miles from the main lake. The area features beautiful waterways and hiking trails. Other worthwhile options include Paintsville Lake State Park and Yatesville Lake State Park for water recreation, or Breaks Interstate Park if you're willing to drive a bit farther for spectacular mountain views.

What camping is available near Prestonsburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Prestonsburg, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 68 campgrounds and RV parks near Prestonsburg, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Prestonsburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Prestonsburg, KY is Jenny Wiley State Park Campground with a 3.3-star rating from 15 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Prestonsburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Prestonsburg, KY.

What parks are near Prestonsburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Prestonsburg, KY that allow camping, notably Dewey Lake and Fishtrap Lake.

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