Best Campgrounds near Flatgap, KY

Eastern Kentucky's rolling hills surrounding Flatgap provide diverse camping experiences within an hour's drive. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground, just 10 miles southwest of Flatgap, offers year-round camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites with water access. Nearby Yatesville Lake State Park Campground features similar amenities but operates seasonally from April through October. The region includes several Army Corps of Engineers managed lakes with developed campgrounds, including Grayson Lake State Park with 71 water and electric sites. Wildcat Camping and Fishing provides a more rustic alternative with basic amenities while still accommodating both tent and RV campers. Most campgrounds in the area feature boat ramps, fishing access, and hiking trails.

Reservations are essential during summer months, particularly at waterfront sites which fill quickly from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain that can challenge RV leveling. As one camper noted, "Almost everyone's site was not flat and took a lot of work to get campers close to level." Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds having limited or no coverage. Weather conditions remain mild through most of the camping season, though summer thunderstorms can develop quickly. Spring camping may encounter muddy conditions after rainfall. Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities with more availability at popular campgrounds. As one visitor to Grayson Lake State Park observed, "This stunning Eastern Kentucky State Park offers spectacular views of rock formations, tree-lined roads, and a stunning lake."

Lake access represents a primary attraction for most campgrounds in the region. Twin Knobs Recreation Area on Cave Run Lake receives consistently high ratings for its wooded sites and water access. According to one long-time visitor, "Been camping here for more than 40 years... sites are far enough away that you don't feel right on top of each other but close enough to amenities that you don't feel lost in the wilderness!" Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting deer, wild turkeys, and various birds. Bathhouse cleanliness varies between locations, with state park facilities generally receiving better reviews than more remote sites. Families particularly appreciate the swimming areas at Paintsville and Grayson Lakes. Boating noise can be an issue during peak summer weekends at some lakeside campgrounds. For those seeking more solitude, the Daniel Boone National Forest offers more primitive camping options within an hour's drive northwest of Flatgap.

Best Camping Sites Near Flatgap, Kentucky (94)

    1. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 297-8488

    $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."

    2. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 673-1492

    $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."

    3. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auxier, KY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 889-1790

    $30 - $35 / night

    "The park’s along the lake and has hiking, birding, a restaurant, and a nice surprise: an open air theatre with shows outside all summer."

    "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."

    4. Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 474-9727

    $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."

    5. Wildcat Camping and Fishing

    2 Reviews
    Flatgap, KY
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 265-3629

    $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."

    6. Falls Campground

    9 Reviews
    Louisa, KY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 826-0212

    $37 - $72 / night

    "The sites are nice and most have direct access to the creek and beach area. Privately owned so not ruled to death like some state park campgrounds."

    "There's a dollar general at the entrance."

    7. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    $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."

    8. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $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."

    9. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    43 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / 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."

    10. German Bridge - Dewey Lake

    4 Reviews
    Dewey Lake, KY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 789-4521

    "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."

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Recent Reviews near Flatgap, KY

607 Reviews of 94 Flatgap Campgrounds


  • s
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Relode BaseCamp

    Perfect small campground

    Bathhouse is immaculate! Super clean facilities! Also laundry available for a small fee, picnic pavilion for all guest with starlink internet FREE! Cheap and affordable place great for families or just a trip for 1! Pet friendly, and beautiful pond! Quiet, off the beaten path, affordable!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Equestrian Campground — Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Under Construction

    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. Bathhouse is clean and up to date. The roads are narrow and windy.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    The Landing Strip Campground

    The Landing Strip Campground and Venue

    This campground is built on an old air strip and it is excellent for overnight or longer stays.  They have venues and rallies there throughout the year.  We found it by accident and have been using it coming and going to AZ every year since.  The owners are great and wifi is good with full hookup with 30 and 50 amp service.  So far there isn't a store or shower facilities that we could see, but it is still a great place to stay if you are traveling on Route 40 and need a rest stop.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Great campground

    Very clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Great site, not a lot to do.

    Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway.

  • Adriyel P.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Ashland Huntington West KOA

    Good Basic KOA

    Plenty 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.

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Nice campground

    Been going to Greenbo since I was a kid in the 70s.  Facilities are well maintained and clean. The campground has been recently paved. Plenty of full service sites with sewer, but lots of other shady sites without sewer. Was there July 13-16, 2025 -- VERY HOT. Staff are friendly and just excellent. The operating hours of marina and other activities are out of date/wrong on the parks.ky.gov web site, just call the park for hours.

    Oh, if you want firewood, the campground office is at the marina. Go there, pay for the firewood, and it will be delivered to your site while you go enjoy the park.

    Mini golf is in good shape, get clubs and balls at marina. Be prepared, the course is hard, but in a fun way.

    Very bike friendly.

  • Bob B.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Oak Hill Campground

    One-Night Adventure: Our Shakedown Trip in the New Travel Trailer

    Campsite Review for Site 6 – Gateway to Wayne National Forest

    Our recent camping trip at this campground was an excellent way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Wayne National Forest. The serene forest setting provided a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor adventure, with the campground offering all the basics needed for a comfortable stay.

    We stayed at Site 6 in our travel trailer, enjoying the ease of a pull-through site. Although the water and electric hookups are on the opposite side unless you drive through the loop the wrong way, this setup has an unexpected benefit—it faces directly toward the woods. This orientation allowed us to savor the tranquility of the forest, adding a layer of privacy and a more intimate connection with nature.

    While the sites are decently sized, they are closely positioned with minimal separation, which might limit privacy in other areas. However, the majestic surroundings of Wayne National Forest more than make up for this. The proximity to hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and the peaceful ambiance of the trees create an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.

    All in all, this campground is a fantastic base for exploring Wayne National Forest. The combination of basic amenities, convenient access, and the enchanting forest environment makes it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.


Guide to Flatgap

Primitive camping options abound within a 25-mile radius of Flatgap, Kentucky. The eastern Kentucky region features rolling hills at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet, with extensive lakeside camping available from April through October. Cell service remains spotty throughout most camping areas, particularly in valleys and more remote sites.

What to do

Kayaking and creek access: Blaine Creek at Falls Campground provides a natural water slide feature popular with families. "The waterfall is fun to slide down," notes Ashley P., who recommends camping during weekdays when "it is pretty empty" for a more peaceful experience.

Cave exploration: Multiple cave systems within an hour's drive offer guided tours and educational experiences. "There are tons of sites for backcountry camping throughout the park. 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," explains one visitor to Jenny Wiley State Park.

Hiking at various difficulty levels: Lick Falls Loop at Grayson Lake State Park provides a 4.5-mile trail accessible directly from the campground. A reviewer notes, "Going to 'The Grotto' aka Clifty Falls is a must (4.5 mile round trip). The same boat ramp has a decent place to get in and swim."

Horseback riding opportunities: German Bridge - Dewey Lake accommodates equestrians with specific facilities. "For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn," explains one camper, making it ideal for those traveling with horses.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Yatesville Lake State Park Campground receives consistent praise for spacious sites. "The campsites are a LONG distance from each other. You won't even hear your neighbors," notes Carrie J., adding that "a lot of the sites back up against the lake so you have easy access for swimming."

Clean facilities: Twin Knobs Recreation Area maintains exceptionally clean bathhouses and campgrounds. "The staff are constantly working to keep everything clean and repaired," explains Karen P., who stayed during heavy rain and noted "our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well."

Lakeside camping options: Multiple boat-in camping sites create unique experiences. One camper at Yatesville Lake explains, "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."

Fall foliage viewing: October transforms the region with spectacular colors. "I have camped here in the spring and summer. This was my first trip in fall. The weather was wet and cold, but it couldn't take away from the experience," reports a camper at Twin Knobs, highlighting the seasonal beauty even in less ideal weather conditions.

What you should know

Site leveling challenges: Nearly all campgrounds in the area require leveling blocks. At Grayson Lake State Park, "bring all the leveling blocks you own because very few sites are level and most are very sloped," advises Sarah, who also suggests bringing "a very long hose/hose extensions as the sites are well-spaced with water between them."

Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region have water quality issues. Regarding Dewey Lake, one camper explicitly warns: "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER! FISH AT YOUR OWN RISK... CATCH & RELEASE!"

Reservation difficulties: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Paintsville Lake State Park, a camper notes: "It is a nice campground, and we would recommend it to anyone, but actually getting a reservation is difficult. I tried for two years before I finally got a reservation."

Wildlife encounters: Bears and coyotes inhabit the region. One experienced local camper recommends "BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!"

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground provides kid-friendly amenities. "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! Great for the kids!" recommends Chris B.

Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots safe for children. At Grayson Lake State Park, "there was also a playground and basketball court which I thought was great," according to Taylor W., who visited with her family.

Halloween camping events: Multiple campgrounds host special October activities. "They also have a fantastic Halloween themed October. We love the experience each and every year!" shares Vanessa D. about Falls Campground.

Off-peak camping benefits: Weekday stays offer more tranquility and space. Ashley P. recommends Falls Campground because "I stay in a certain place everytime with a great view of the waterfall right out my tent door. I always come on a Sunday or a weeknights it is pretty empty."

Tips from RVers

Hookup locations: Many campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. At Jenny Wiley State Park, "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose," advises Frances F., highlighting an infrastructure quirk common to several area campgrounds.

Full hookup availability: Wildcat Camping and Fishing offers complete services with level sites. "Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels," reports Paul after staying for over a month.

Dumping station access: Most state parks provide this essential service, but availability varies. One camper at Jenny Wiley State Park reported, "There was only one hole for grey and black water, which I've never seen," indicating some limitations in infrastructure compared to larger RV parks.

Extended stay options: Some private campgrounds accommodate longer visits. At Wildcat Camping and Fishing, a reviewer notes they offer "Very good monthly rates. Can receive mail and packages," making it suitable for those looking to stay longer in the Flatgap area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Flatgap, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Flatgap, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 94 campgrounds and RV parks near Flatgap, KY and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Flatgap, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Flatgap, KY is Paintsville Lake State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 14 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Flatgap, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Flatgap, KY.

What parks are near Flatgap, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Flatgap, KY that allow camping, notably Dewey Lake and Grayson Lake.