Dewey Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
$30 - $35 / night
"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."
"These are primarily situated around Dewey Lake. I have never actually stayed in the camping facilities as it's always seemed more fun to go "off grid" and visit a more private site."
$25 - $35 / 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."
"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."
$18 - $30 / 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."
$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."
$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."
$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)."
$30 / night
"Grayson Lake State Park- East Kentucky. So, we had reservations for Carter Caves, but they canceled on me due to redoing the campground."
"This stunning Eastern Kentucky State Park offers spectacular views of rock formations, tree lined roads, and a stunning lake."
$20 - $120 / night
"Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."
"Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."
GuideThis 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.
ScoutIt 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.
TravelerPlenty 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.
GuideWe 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.
GuideSmall 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.
LegendGrayson 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!
TravelerThis 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!
ScoutBbathrooms 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.
TravelerWonderful 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.
Camping near Dewey Lake, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.
Camping near Dewey Lake, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a designated campground at Dewey Lake?
Yes, there are several designated camping options at Dewey Lake. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground offers formal camping facilities around Dewey Lake with numerous sites. Additionally, German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides camping access with basic amenities including water and toilets. The area also features numerous backcountry camping spots situated around the lake for those seeking a more primitive experience away from developed facilities.
What permits are required for camping at Dewey Lake?
For camping at Dewey Lake, you'll need different permits depending on your chosen location. At Yatesville Lake State Park Campground and other nearby Kentucky state parks, reservations serve as your permit for designated sites and can be made through the state park reservation system. For backcountry camping around Dewey Lake itself, you should check with the local ranger station as some areas require backcountry permits. Always verify current regulations before your trip as permit requirements may change seasonally or annually.
What is the best time of year to camp at Dewey Lake?
The ideal time to camp at Dewey Lake is late spring through early fall (May to October). Zilpo Campground, which shares a similar climate, shines in fall with spectacular foliage. Late spring offers comfortable temperatures and flowering landscapes, while summer provides perfect conditions for water activities despite occasional heat and humidity. Fall camping features mild days, cool nights, and stunning color displays. Twin Knobs Recreation Area visitors note that even during peak summer, the lake provides welcome relief from the heat. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited.
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