Top Free Dispersed Camping near Clay City, KY

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Clay City, look no further. The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Clay City just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Clay City, KY (1)

    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    1. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    6 Reviews
    32 Photos
    74 Saves
    Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Clay City

6 Reviews of 1 Clay City Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    October 10, 2020

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Scary

    This place was trashy.  Cars came and went all night. People are living there.  There were people hunting something until 2 am with flashlights. (Guessing frogs) 

    Don’t go

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    August 4, 2020

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful & Free, but Lots of Trash Around

    We simply love camping in the National Forest Service campgrounds, most often because they are isolated, beautiful, inexpensive and usually, very quiet. We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer. With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group. 

    There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites.  There were portable pit-toilets (bring your own TP, if you want to have some). There are no trash cans or dumpsters in the area, so plan accordingly. The main activity of folks in the campground seemed to be fishing, so I assume the fishing is good, or at least the trying is. But launching a kayak for an easy paddle about the lake couldn’t be easier from your site. 

    We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash. It’s discouraging to love these camping areas and find them in such a rough state after others use them. It’s a good reminder to come prepared to pick up after yourself and others who aren’t as thoughtful. We spent a good hour cleaning up the area, and filled one section of our truck bed with it when we left. Carry it in, folks, and then carry it out.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    September 1, 2019

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Broke campers dream

    This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups. Most spots have boat in access! Will definitely be going back! Located in Morehead, KY.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    August 26, 2019

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful place

    It is a beautiful campground.. just make sure you clean up after your selves so the next person doesn't have to clean your mess! If you leave food and garbage out you will attract Bears..  Always remember we are in their home so yes they will come for food! Just keep your area tidy and clean and take your trash with you when you leave..

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    September 30, 2017

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Dispersed camping in Daniel Boone National Forest

    The National Forest has hiking, multi-use trails, and boating (there is a ramp nearby). This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment.

    Yay: Close to the river, on the less busy side of the forest. Drive along the road and decide which campsite to stay at. All free.

    Nay: Sadly, there was a lot of trash at all the sites. Not all sites have fire rings. There are only 7 sites so and no reservations so you may end up out of luck (but there are many other campgrounds in the area). Can be very muddy!

    Surprise: call or visit the ranger office before entering the forest to get the latest recommendations for good trails and where to see wildlife!



Guide to Clay City

Camping near Clay City, 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 choose from.

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."
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Enjoy the water at Zilpo Campground, where one reviewer mentioned it’s "perfect for kayaking and fishing."
  • Caving: Visit Carter Caves State Resort Park for a unique experience. A camper noted, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds."

What campers like

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded spots at Zilpo Campground. One review highlights it as a "quiet, less utilized campground" with more privacy.
  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Carter Caves State Resort Park enjoy the cleanliness, with one reviewer stating, "Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour."
  • Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere at Whispering Hills RV Park is a hit. A visitor mentioned, "Very friendly staff and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper noted, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult."
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Fort Boonesborough State Park reported noise from a nearby stone quarry, which can be disruptive. One review mentioned, "You hear stone crushers and beeping trucks backing up."
  • Site Size: Some sites may be small or uneven. A visitor at Middle Fork Campground mentioned, "Spaces are pretty tight."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. Whispering Hills RV Park has a playground and inflatables, making it great for families. One parent said, "This park is great for kids."
  • Plan for Nature: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, families can enjoy hiking and caving. A reviewer noted, "Great facilities, hiking, caving etc."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Be prepared for anything. A camper at Lago Linda Hideaway mentioned, "They have a restaurant... and two sets of bathrooms."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to choose a level site. A visitor at Twin Knobs Recreation Area mentioned, "Good level spots."
  • Bring Extensions: If you're using an RV, you might need extra cords. One camper at Whispering Hills RV Park said, "Had to go buy an extension" for the sewer hookup.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Campers at Red River Gorge Campground enjoy the local food and scenic views. One reviewer said, "Local food is good, a lot of small mom and pop establishments."

Camping near Clay City, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Clay City, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Clay City, KY is Paragon Dispersed Camping Area with a 3.3-star rating from 6 reviews.