Paragon Dispersed Camping Area provides primitive camping near Irvine, Kentucky with shoreline access to Cave Run Lake in Daniel Boone National Forest. The area consists of approximately a dozen informal sites located in Clearfield, Kentucky, where visitors can find lakeside camping without designated facilities. Sites typically fill quickly during summer months, especially on weekends, with local fishermen and paddlers claiming spots by mid-afternoon on Fridays.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Paragon offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting right from your campsite. One camper at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area noted, "Our first morning a heron was fishing in the lake less than 100 feet from us. We saw him catch a fish. There were woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize."
Fishing: Cave Run Lake provides accessible fishing opportunities directly from many campsites. The lake is a popular destination for anglers seeking various fish species. According to one visitor, "The main activity of folks in the campground seemed to be fishing, so I assume the fishing is good, or at least the trying is."
Paddling: Launch kayaks and canoes directly from your campsite for exploration of Cave Run Lake. With boat-in access at many sites, this area is ideal for paddlers. As one camper mentioned, "This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Located on Cave Run Lake... Most spots have boat in access!"
What campers like
Affordability: The free camping options make Paragon Dispersed Camping Area appealing to budget-conscious campers. One visitor shared, "This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway!"
Lake views: Many sites offer scenic views of Cave Run Lake from camping locations. The natural setting provides photogenic opportunities. A camper described their experience: "The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!"
Accessibility: The convenient location directly off paved roads means easy access for most vehicles. Sites are typically reached without difficult driving conditions. One review confirms: "Beautiful location just off a paved road. We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake."
What you should know
Cleanliness issues: Trash management presents significant challenges at these primitive sites. With no garbage service, some visitors fail to pack out waste. One camper reported, "We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash. We spent a good hour cleaning up the area, and filled one section of our truck bed with it when we left."
Limited facilities: Expect only basic pit toilets without regular maintenance or supplies. A camper noted, "This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment."
Variable site conditions: Weather impacts site usability, with mud becoming problematic after rain. Additionally, not all sites have established fire rings. According to one visitor at Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area, site access can be inconsistent, with gates occasionally blocking access.
Safety considerations: Some campers report concerning activity during overnight stays. One visitor advised, "This place was trashy. Cars came and went all night. People are living there. There were people hunting something until 2 am with flashlights."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife educational opportunities: Turn wildlife sightings into learning experiences for children by bringing identification guides. Bird watching can become an engaging activity. One visitor shared, "We saw woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize."
Site selection timing: Arrive early on weekdays when seeking family-appropriate sites with adequate space. A camper noted, "We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available."
Ranger interaction: Contact forest rangers before your trip for current conditions and educational program information. A visitor recommended, "Call or visit the ranger office before entering the forest to get the latest recommendations for good trails and where to see wildlife!"
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate small trailers but lack amenities for larger RVs. One camper with a trailer mentioned, "We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer."
Solar power: Consider solar panels for primitive camping without hookups. This allows for some basic electricity while boondocking. A camper shared their experience: "There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites."
Self-contained needs: Bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, toilet paper, and waste management solutions. A visitor advised, "There were portable pit-toilets (bring your own TP, if you want to have some). There are no trash cans or dumpsters in the area, so plan accordingly."
