1 campground with availability this weekend
Carter Caves State Resort Park features an Equestrian Campground with full hookup options for campers with horses. Campsites include electric (30/50-amp), water, and sewer connections alongside picnic tables and fire rings. The equestrian sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with sufficient space for horse trailers. Trail riders can access nearby bridle paths directly from the campground. Though the facility does not have dedicated horse corrals, campers can bring portable corrals or use tie lines at their sites. The surrounding forest area provides natural shelter and scenic views, while bathhouses with showers and toilets offer modern conveniences for equestrians after a day on the trails.
The bridle trails surrounding Carter Caves connect to broader trail networks within the park's 2,000 acres of wooded terrain. Riders encounter varied landscapes including limestone cliffs, natural bridges, and cave entrances along these routes. Twin Knobs Recreation Area offers additional horse-friendly camping options within reasonable driving distance of Dewey Lake. Water access is available for horses at several points throughout the trail system, though riders should verify seasonal availability. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner-friendly loops to more challenging routes with elevation changes. Most equestrian trails remain open year-round, weather permitting, with spring and fall offering optimal riding conditions when temperatures are moderate and insects are fewer. Some paths close occasionally for maintenance or during extremely wet conditions to prevent trail damage.
"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."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 - $45 / night
"For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn. Campsites are a reasonable price with no hookups, $15."
"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"
"This is a beautiful state park with breathtaking views of creeks along the roadway, wonderful landscape designed by nature, good hiking trails, peaceful campground, and a nice lodge."
"We liked that we could walk to the bathrooms and not have to drive there. We stayed at site 100 and really enjoyed the shade trees."
Available this weekend
from $25 - $85 / 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."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 - $150 / night
"Didn't appreciate the grill in the next site (thought it was too close to us). We were in Site #8. Not sure what all is around here."
"We stayed on the upper end by the veterans cemetery, even though it's close to the pool and playground, it was pretty quiet. Sites were a bit unlevel, but easy to back into."
from $55 - $85 / night
"No water or electricity at the primitive campground, but you’re within walking distance of the main bathhouse which was nice and clean during my stay. "
"There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite."
from $16 / night
"The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults. Giovanni's pizza restaurant on site has wifi. This campground is located out in God's country. "
from $20 / night
"The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done."
from $50 - $67 / night
TravelerWe love Twin Knobs! We have camped there numerous times - in the Sping, Summer, and Fall. Electric and non electric sites. The campground staff is always a pleasure to interact with, and so kind! Always clean. Most sites are within walking distance to the lake. My only suggestion is I wish they had some playgrounds for small kids.
TravelerCampground is beautiful. Restrooms were very clean.
Mix of hook up and primitive. VERY spacious sites with privacy and space between. Its right on Cave Run Lake too.
Only negative we saw was widowmaker limbs in trees directly above campsites.
TravelerNice pool, most sites I could see have sewer. Water pressure was low. Very few shady sites on top level.
TravelerWe were surprised to find the store open when we arrived at 6, but woman inside was a trip. She could not seem to figure out how to do anything and talked to herself the whole time. Check in took about 20-30 minutes! She was very friendly though and explained how to get to our site. Tried to get propane- first she said she didn't know how to do it, then she decided she did, but wound up being clueless. She did let us change our site because it was so far from the bathroom. We had to go down a crazy steep narrow hill to get to the lower area. Thought it might be quiet but wound up on top of a busy road. Ok for an overnight. Huge street lights over us. Sites a little junky looking.
GuideThe equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done. Bathhouse is clean and up to date. The roads are narrow and windy.
TravelerVery clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.
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.
Horse camping options near Dewey Lake in Kentucky range from full-service equestrian sites to more basic facilities. The area sits within the eastern foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 650-700 feet elevation, creating varied terrain for riders of all experience levels. Trail conditions typically feature moderate hills with some rocky sections, while summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity.
Horseback riding on Cow Creek trails: Riders can access trails near German Bridge - Dewey Lake, where equestrians find diverse terrain options. "If you looking to get away and you like the company of close campers this place may be for you. It is a small camping area that has everything you need to stay a while. It's right off the back waters of Dewy lake," notes David O.
Lake recreation beyond swimming: Despite water quality concerns, Dewey Lake offers other recreational options. "If you like catfishing, this is your Lake," mentions David O. about Jenny Wiley State Park Campground. Another camper warns, "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER!"
Cave exploration and limestone formations: Within driving distance, Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground provides unique geological features. Chris B. shares, "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something!"
Secluded sites along water access points: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds in the region. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites. There are shower and toilet facilities close by. The campground is located on a lake," according to Stephen H.
Evening entertainment options: Beyond daytime trail riding, the area offers cultural activities. "Make sure you check out the Jenny Wiley theater if you can, they are beyond talented," recommends Kristie B. about Jenny Wiley State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region provides chances to observe native species. At Chief Logan State Park, "There's a wildlife center where you can see bears, bobcats and raptors in enclosures for a $2.00 donation," notes Jennifer B., adding that deer are commonly spotted throughout the park.
Water quality concerns: Several campers mention water issues at Dewey Lake. "People using house boats are known to dump waste directly into the lake. If you don't plan on diving in and would rather just fish and hike, make time to take a trip here," advises Carrie J.
Limited cellular connectivity: Signal strength varies throughout the area. "BTW, this area and the Lodge are the best places for getting a cell phone signal," notes Tena G. about Jenny Wiley State Park, implying that reception elsewhere may be limited.
Bathhouse and facility conditions vary: While some campgrounds maintain clean facilities, others struggle. "Dump station overflowed and closed. Toilets broken, plugged or poop all over toilets and floor," reports John D. about an unfortunate weekend at Jenny Wiley.
Kid-friendly activities away from water: For families seeking alternatives to lake swimming, Ashland Huntington West KOA offers structured recreation. "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee," shares Brooke V.
Playground options for different ages: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. At Ole Henry's Camping Retreat, "The playground area has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite," according to Andrew S.
Safety considerations for outdoor activities: When exploring with children, preparation is key. "BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!" warns Tena G. about the Jenny Wiley area.
Site layout and hookup positioning: RVers should plan for campground-specific configurations. "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose," advises Frances F. about Jenny Wiley State Park.
Leveling challenges on mountain sites: The hilly terrain can make RV setup difficult. At Chief Logan State Park Campground, "Our site was full hook up and very level," reports Jeremiah S., but experiences vary widely throughout the region's campgrounds.
Extension cord requirements: Many sites have unusual electrical hookup placements. "The only issue was that some of the sites were around 50 ft from the electric hook up. Thankfully we were able to switch spots instead of renting an extension cord," notes Autumn L. at Carter Caves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Dewey Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Dewey Lake is Jenny Wiley State Park Campground with a 3.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Dewey Lake?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Dewey Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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