Mountain camping areas surround Hazard, Kentucky, with elevations ranging from 950 to 2,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Carr Creek Lake provides water recreation opportunities with a 100-yard swimming beach that remains operational during peak summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Carr Creek State Park: The lake offers clear water for swimming and fishing. "Best beach, has gone thru some upgrades this year," notes a visitor about Carr Creek State Park Campground. Another camper mentions, "Water was clean and clear. It might be a slight challenge walking back up the steps to the parking lot if you're not in good shape."
Hiking opportunities near Natural Bridge: The area provides numerous marked trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper at Middle Fork Campground shares, "Upon check-in, we were given a pamphlet of the many area hikes. There is a sky lift (chair lift) that takes you to Natural Bridge (or you can hike to it)."
Coal mining history exploration: Visit historic mining exhibits in Lynch. "This small park is located across the street from an exhibition coal mine, portal 31. It is in the former train depots former switch yard," explains a visitor to Portal 31 RV Park, adding "If you want to see the history of coal production in southeast Kentucky, this is the place."
Walking paths in mountain towns: Several campgrounds connect to community walking trails. A reviewer at Leeman Field Park mentions, "There is a gorgeous walking and biking trail beginning at Leeman Field that winds along the river leading to a local grocery store and restaurants. Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also."
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds receive praise for their upkeep. At Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground, a guest notes, "The bath house was clean and decorated very nice. Looks like it has been freshly painted. A wonderful covered pavilion with lots of tables and gas grills."
Creek and river access: Water features enhance many camping experiences. "Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground," shares a visitor to Jessie Lea RV Park. Another camper at Middle Fork Campground appreciates "the creek that flows through it so we could soak our achy feet!"
Convenient location for ATV trails: Off-road enthusiasts have dedicated areas. A reviewer at Harlan County Campgrounty-RV Park mentions, "This is a decent campground that definitely caters to the SxS and off road crowd. Sites are relatively level and there is a decent amount of space between them."
Mountain views and natural surroundings: The region's scenic landscape impresses visitors. "We stayed here Mothers Day weekend. Had perfect weather and our tent site was by the creek so we could here running water all night. It was so peaceful!" shares a camper at Middle Fork Campground.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between locations. At Cross Mountain Campground, a visitor reports, "There's Wifi available, and it was at least as good as our AT&T cell connection, and we were able to keep our Starlink on pause, saving us a month's cost there."
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs significantly between parks. At Carr Creek State Park, a camper notes, "Bathrooms are disgusting. Half don't work and handicap doesn't have lock. Only 1 shower worked. Water leaking from toilet and sink."
Seasonal accessibility: Not all facilities operate year-round. A Carr Creek visitor mentions, "We went camping here in October. Campground was nice. Bathrooms were not very well kept." Some facilities close completely during winter months.
Mountain road navigation: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. Cross Mountain Campground reports, "The drive up from the main road is 85% paved with nice new asphalt. Just a short section that's gravel."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and pools: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. At 4 Guys RV Park at Red River Gorge, a camper shares, "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground. They are very close to Natural Bridge/Red River Gorge area."
Consider sites near water features: Creeks provide natural entertainment. "We really enjoyed swimming in and following the creek upstream," notes a visitor at Middle Fork Campground, adding, "Theres fishing, swimming, climbing, hiking, and biking around here."
Check for family-friendly amenities: Some parks cater specifically to families. A Leeman Field Park visitor mentions, "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees), tennis courts, and disc golf course."
Look for walking-distance attractions: Some campgrounds connect to community resources. At Jessie Lea RV Park, a camper notes, "Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek. Also the town is the home of writer Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of Big Stone Gap!"
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Many mountain sites require adjustment. At 4 Guys RV Park, a visitor observes, "Large level sites. Commercial campground, so sites are close without trees to separate."
Verify drainage during rain: Mountain terrain affects water flow. A Cross Mountain camper notes, "One thing we liked is the great drainage. Even on the rainy days, there were almost no puddles due to good landscaping and slight slope. The water pressure is really strong, be sure to use your pressure regulator!"
Confirm pull-through availability: Not all sites accommodate easy access. At Middle Fork Campground, a reviewer cautions, "Most are back-in, but the middle row has pull-thru sites, however, if you had a large RV with a toad, you would likely not have room for both in your site."
Consider shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly. A 4 Guys RV Park camper mentions, "My only complaint, and I will say it is a very small complaint — it must be a relatively new park because there are no shade trees. This minor flaw will not stop me from returning!"
