Carr Creek Lake campsites span multiple developed sites across eastern Kentucky, situated in the mountainous terrain at approximately 1,000 feet elevation. The camping areas remain open primarily during warmer months, typically closing from November through March when temperatures can drop below freezing. Water levels in the lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline accessibility at certain camping locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Buckhorn Dam Campground, campers can fish right beside their site. One visitor mentioned, "You could also go up back the park and fish right at the spillway from Buckhorn Lake Dam. Really fun experience."
Hiking trails: Kingdom Come State Park Campground offers numerous connected hiking paths. "The surrounding mountains provide many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired," according to a camper who particularly enjoyed the area's natural features.
Bird and wildlife watching: The region provides chances to observe local wildlife. At Kingdom Come, one visitor reported, "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions." The park provides food storage poles at each site to reduce wildlife encounters.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming zones. A camper at Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake noted that "half of the campsites are right on the water" and the park includes "picnic areas, bathrooms, showers, a playground, and a boat ramp."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many visitors appreciate the remote nature of these camping areas. At Littcarr Campground, a guest commented, "Awesome, clean and plenty of space between camp sites. Bathrooms and showers kept clean and laundry was great." The campground provides a canal that connects to Carr Creek Lake.
Playground facilities: Families highlight the recreational amenities for children. Buckhorn Dam Campground received praise for having "Hands down the best playground for kids we have seen in a campground," with additional recreational options including "horseshoe pits in two locations."
Cell service limitations: Some campers appreciate disconnecting. At Trace Branch, one visitor noted, "There is also no cell service here, so be prepared to unplug and unwind." This makes it ideal for those wanting to escape digital connectivity during their stay.
Free firewood: Kingdom Come State Park offers complimentary firewood. A camper mentioned, "Every day a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping," representing significant savings for visitors planning longer stays.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Trace Branch, a camper warned, "Access to the camp may be tough for larger rigs as there's a few miles of windy, one-lane roads with switchbacks, drop-offs, and the occasional washout." Similarly, at Kingdom Come, a visitor noted, "The road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facilities receive mixed reports across campgrounds. At Carr Creek State Park Campground, a visitor observed, "The commodes have a button to flush which is difficult to push. I think young children couldn't push it, so the toilets got nasty and full." However, Littcarr received praise for "excellent, very clean" bathroom facilities.
Limited store access: Most campgrounds are remote from shopping. A Littcarr camper noted, "You are always from Walmart, but there are several little stores for essentials." Similarly, at Carr Creek State Park, "It's about 5+/- miles in either direction for a store."
Seasonal availability: Most sites operate from April through September. Buckhorn Dam Campground specifically operates "May 1 to September 29," while Carr Creek State Park runs "April 1 to October 31."
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: Consider how far children will need to walk. At Carr Creek State Park, "Water surrounds campground but not visible through the trees. A few very steep trails from some sites down to the lake." Another visitor mentioned, "It might be a slight challenge walking back up the steps to the parking lot if you're not in good shape."
Playground options: Buckhorn Dam Campground provides multiple recreational facilities. A family camper shared it has a "very nice playground, basketball court, swing, and volleyball court" making it "perfect for families with kids!"
Noise considerations: Be prepared for varied noise levels during peak times. At Carr Creek, a visitor noted, "While we were there, somebody with a super loud speed boat was racing around, so be aware that if you're wanting peace and quiet, there is boating noise."
Swimming opportunities: Breaks Interstate Park Campground provides additional swimming options nearby. "There is a pool and waterpark on site, and a gift shop and camp store," according to a recent visitor, offering alternatives to lake swimming.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for comfort. At Breaks Interstate Park, campers should "prepare for some levelling" as the "campground itself isn't really all that great" despite the spectacular surrounding park.
Hookup variations: Check site utilities before booking. At Carr Creek State Park, "All sites have electric and water, picnic table, two poles to hang garbage or lantern, also fire rings with grates for cooking." However, at other campgrounds, hookup availability varies significantly.
Space between sites: Consider privacy needs when selecting locations. Littcarr Campground offers what one camper called "plenty of space between camp sites," while at other locations, sites may be closer together.
Electronic connectivity: Most campgrounds have limited service. At Littcarr, a camper noted, "Definitely needed WeBoost to make data functional. Verizon worked best of my carriers. Visible had zut coverage. ATT and Cricket were usable with WeBoost." For those requiring connectivity, bringing signal boosting equipment may be necessary.
