Cabins near Dewey Lake offer accommodations in an area with elevations between 600-900 feet above sea level and average summer temperatures of 85°F. The cabins sit within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains where creeks flow into the 1,100-acre Dewey Lake. Most cabin sites remain open April through October, with limited year-round options available.
What to do
Water activities at Dewey Lake: Fishing for catfish is popular at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground where visitors note "the fishing on Dewy Lake is awesome. The water is muddy a lot. But if you like catfishing, this is your Lake." Some campers bring kayaks, though one visitor mentioned, "There's a large lake at the park that accommodates speed boats and jet skis so I didn't put my kayak in."
Trail exploration: Zilpo Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest offers extensive hiking trails. Reviewers note, "if you're a sight seeing, hiking, biking, camping enthusiast, this is a must see!" For those interested in geology, the nearby sandstone formations provide opportunities for hiking to natural bridges and rock formations.
Evening entertainment: Check the schedule at Jenny Wiley Theater during summer months. One camper shares that the park features "an open air theatre with shows outside all summer" which offers a cultural element to your cabin stay. The performances typically run mid-June through early August.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabins and campsites at Twin Knobs Recreation Area provide good separation between neighbors. One reviewer described the area as having "beautiful, well maintained sites" where "each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites." This natural division creates a more secluded cabin experience.
Creek access for cooling off: At Falls Campground, cabins are situated near a creek with natural water features. A visitor mentioned, "We really enjoyed the laid back atmosphere and love the sites along Blaine Creek. My son loves playing in the creek and on the falls so we keep tubes in the camper specifically for here."
Wildlife viewing: Several cabins provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. One camper at Breaks Interstate Park Campground shared, "White tail deer are frequent, and very tame." The forested settings around cabin locations offer chances to spot birds and other woodland creatures.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Be cautious about water activities in Dewey Lake. A visitor explicitly warned, "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER! FISH AT YOUR OWN RISK, CATCH & RELEASE!" Others have observed "all the trash and debris in the lake" noting "I've never seen so much garbage in a lake in my life."
Bring essential supplies: Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground and other cabin locations require guests to bring specific items. One visitor advised, "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites." Most cabins require guests bring their own linens and cooking equipment.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly around Dewey Lake. A camper noted, "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception." Some campgrounds have limited Wi-Fi access points, but connectivity remains spotty throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Ashland Huntington West KOA provides amenities specifically for children. One visitor appreciated the "fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites." Another mentioned, "They have a pool and mini golf to entertain the kids who have been driving you crazy on the road."
Halloween events: Several campgrounds offer special October activities. A camper at Falls Campground mentioned, "They also have a fantastic Halloween themed October. We love the experience each and every year!" These events typically feature decorations, costume contests, and trick-or-treating throughout the campground.
Safety precautions: Families should prepare for wildlife encounters near cabins. One experienced visitor recommends "BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!" Food storage containers are essential to prevent attracting animals to your cabin site.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites require adjustment for level parking. At Breaks Interstate Park Campground, a camper advised, "prepare for some levelling. We lucked out in the B loop." Another visitor mentioned sites are "all clean and level" at Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Hookup placement: Check utility locations before selecting a site. One RVer noted, "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose." Another mentioned, "you share a water spigot with a neighbor so you have to have a long hose to go across your whole section."
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds have limited waste disposal facilities. A visitor reported, "There was only one hole for grey and black water, which I've never seen." During busy periods, lines can form at dump stations, so plan accordingly when departing from your cabin or RV site.
