Fishtrap Lake offers year-round camping opportunities in the eastern Kentucky mountains, with elevations ranging from 757 to 1,600 feet above sea level. The 1,130-acre reservoir sits within the Appalachian Plateau and maintains water temperatures between 40-80°F depending on season. Most campsites in the area require advance reservations between April and October when local wildlife is most active.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: At Paintsville Lake State Park Campground, water activities dominate recreation options. "The lake is really calm. There are boats coming in and out but not 'traffic' per se, no issues at all kayaking and we went out several times. Fishing was good with rooster tails and panther martin spinners (silver), 1/8 and 1/16 oz," notes Kelley K.
Geocaching adventures: Within 15 miles of Fishtrap Lake, Breaks Interstate Park Campground offers organized treasure hunting opportunities. As Shelly S. explains, "Geocached here. If you don't Geocache, never heard of it, you're in for a treat. It's like treasure hunting and you get to see some sights/facts/history you may have missed otherwise."
Trail networks: The terrain around Dewey Lake at German Bridge - Dewey Lake campground supports various skill levels. "Love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge," shares Leah P. The site provides direct water access for paddlers with connections to shoreline trails.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities near Fishtrap Lake. At Lower Twin Campground (VA), campers appreciate the maintenance standards. "Great host, very clean. Has showers, boat ramp, hiking, etc.," reports cyndy B., though she warns visitors to "be on the lookout for copperheads and rattlesnakes!"
Helpful staff: Staff responsiveness enhances pet friendly camping near Fishtrap Lake. Todd C. from Breaks Interstate Park notes, "The camp hosts and staff were amazing and lots of help." This sentiment appears consistently across campgrounds in the region.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain quiet hours for a serene experience. Kim H. describes her stay at Paintsville Lake State Park: "This campground is just as I'd hoped--small, clean, and peaceful. The sites are spacious and level. The surrounding hills and lake are gorgeous."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity varies throughout the Fishtrap Lake region. Carol J. from Breaks Interstate Park observed, "White tail deer are frequent, and very tame." Frances from the same park noted significant wildlife, stating "there is a lot of bear activity, although we did not encounter one."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically across campsites. Eric W. cautions about Breaks Interstate Park: "The things one must take into consideration is that you need to bring ANYTHING you might need for groceries and there is limited cell coverage for ATT."
Seasonal closures: Facilities operate on limited schedules. Carol J. mentioned, "Was disappointed that the Visitor Center was only open on the weekend (and it was still prior to Labor Day)." Many campgrounds reduce services after October.
Water quality concerns: Jenny Wiley State Park Campground visitors report mixed experiences with the lake water. Tena G. advises, "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER! FISH AT YOUR OWN RISK, CATCH & RELEASE!"
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom accessibility: Families with children should consider campsite proximity to facilities. Laura E. from Thunder River Campground shares, "The campground is overlit at night. They need to lose some of the lights. There is no bath house, just a couple of porta potties surrounded by a structure with a handwashing station."
Kid-friendly water access: Sites with gradual shoreline entry work best for families. David O. recommends German Bridge saying, "If you looking to get away and you like the company of close campers this place may be for you. It's right off the back waters of Dewy lake. So great to kayaking or any small boats."
Recreational options: Some parks offer additional activities beyond standard camping. Kim B. notes that Jenny Wiley State Park has "an open air theatre with shows outside all summer. The park is kind of famous for having elk, which are common out west, but we didn't get to see any."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RV sites often require adjustment equipment. Bob M. from Breaks Interstate Park warns, "The campground itself isn't really all that great, prepare for some levelling. We lucked out in the B loop, as a small trail (Grassy Overlook trail) took us to see the northern lights one evening."
Hookup configurations: Water and electrical connections can be awkwardly positioned. Frances F. cautions about Jenny Wiley State Park: "Campsites are set up where the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
Small-RV friendly locations: For smaller RVs and trailers, Backwoods Camping & RV Park offers flexible arrangements. J A. describes it as "Small, affordable, really nice to deal with. Several cabins, RV spots and grassy tent areas. The staff are very easy to work with - they will sell and chop the wood you need."
