Camping near Grayson Lake

The area surrounding Grayson Lake has several good camping options within driving distance. Grayson Lake State Park Campground winds through wooded areas and puts you close to the water. If you don't mind going a bit farther out, Zilpo Campground has roomy sites tucked among trees that give you some distance from neighbors. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground rounds out the main choices, with clean grounds and spots that look out over the water. You'll find basic needs covered at Grayson Lake State Park with bathrooms, shower buildings, and tables for meals. Zilpo gives campers both powered and non-powered sites depending on what setup you bring. The marina at Paintsville Lake State Park makes it particularly good if you're bringing a boat along. Hikers can take advantage of multiple trails that wind through the woods around Grayson Lake. Many campers come here to fish, as the lake holds plenty of bass and catfish. When you need supplies, the town of Grayson isn't far away with stores and places to eat. Most locals recommend camping here during spring or fall when the weather stays comfortable for outdoor time. Summer visits can get pretty sticky with humidity, so bring extra water and sunscreen. Winter camping works too, but you'll need good cold-weather gear. Remember to check the rules before you arrive so you know what's allowed at each campground.

Best Camping Sites Near Grayson Lake (107)

    1. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    11 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."

    2. Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    3 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."

    "Spent 2 nights at the Grayson Lake state park campground. The sites were not private but they were spread out nicely so we had plenty of room set up."

    3. Ashland Huntington West KOA

    17 Reviews
    Grayson, KY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 929-5504

    "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."

    4. Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    19 Reviews
    Greenup, KY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 473-7324

    $19 - $44 / night

    "* Beautiful area of Kentucky Nice trails and great kayaking"

    "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."

    5. Cabin Creek Camping

    3 Reviews
    Grayson, KY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (614) 946-2268

    $38 / night

    "Secluded but close to everything you need.

    Bring a water pressure regulator.

    Bring the kayaks, bikes and easy chairs. Prepare to relax and enjoy yourself."

    6. Bruin Creek

    2 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    "We were fishing Grayson Lake mostly and staying here. Pros: FREE, super simple, golf nearby, nice lake/creek to explore by boat."

    7. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    20 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."

    8. Grayson Getaways

    1 Review
    Grayson Lake, KY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (606) 474-0103

    $35 / night

    "Fantastic campground, quiet, safe, surrounded by woods, clean and nice laundry facilities and bathhouse. Affordable, with electric, water and sewage hookups."

    9. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    31 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."

    10. Falls Campground

    9 Reviews
    Louisa, KY
    18 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."

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Recent Reviews near Grayson Lake

603 Reviews of 107 Grayson Lake Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice spots on the Ohio River

    We had a riverfront site. The camp hosts are very nice and attentive to your needs. We will return

  • 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.

  • Jay T.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    Attractive campground with variety of sites and amenities

    Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites.   Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path.  We stayed in 12.  If you don't mind hauling your gear a short distance from your car, sites like this are perfect as they're  for tent campers only.  The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights.  The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient.  All the Shawnee State Park staff I met were super friendly and helpful.

  • 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.

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Shawnee State Park-Ohio River Campground

    Very Peaceful, Very Clean

    We stayed in Site 09. The sites are spacious with level, asphalted pads. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table.

    Toward the front of the campground is a great splash pad, playground, and dog park, which includes an agility course. These are located away from the RV's; therefore, the campground was very quiet and peaceful.

    Nearby was a marina, fishing access, and an archery range. The surrounding hills are pretty.

    The bath house was clean. A laundry room was available.

    The only drawback was the lack of shade. Because this place is relatively new, in time--as the planted seedlings grow--this problem will lessen.

  • 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.

  • S
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Beautiful Campground

    We spent about five months there this past winter. The campground is beautiful and the owners are amazing. The bathrooms and laundry room are very clean. The surrounding area seeps in history and we enjoyed exploring the area.

    The owners, Julie and Darcy, are very friendly, kind and helpful people.

    Don’t forget to say hello to Lulu and Tater.

  • Paul K.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Fantastic.

    We 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.


Guide to Grayson Lake

Camping near Grayson Lake, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Grayson Lake is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One camper mentioned, "You can fish, rent boats and kayaks. Also, the hiking isn’t too bad!" at Grayson Lake State Park Campground.
  • Hiking: There are trails around the lake that provide great views. A visitor noted, "The campground is very well kept and free of litter," making it a pleasant spot for a hike.
  • Swimming: Some campgrounds have access to swimming areas. A review from Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "The lodge is available down the road for dinner if you are looking to mix up the trip," which can be a nice break after a swim.

What campers like:

  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment. One review stated, "Stay 6 nights, very peaceful and quiet place," at Zilpo Campground.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Twin Knobs Recreation Area said, "Bath houses/restrooms were very clean and nice."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A review for Yatesville Lake State Park Campground noted, "Clean, sites are spread out, and not a very large campground."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Only drawback was lack of any Verizon signal."
  • Reservations Can Be Tough: Some campgrounds fill up quickly. One camper shared, "It is a nice campground, and we would recommend it to anyone, but actually getting a reservation is difficult," at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground.
  • Varied Terrain: Some sites can be sloped or uneven. A review for Grayson Lake State Park Campground noted, "Many spots slant down and cannot level."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or organized activities. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "Great facilities, hiking, caving etc. We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough."
  • Choose Sites Wisely: Some sites are closer together, which might not be ideal for families wanting more space. A review for Twin Knobs Recreation Area said, "Campsites are close together."
  • Pack for Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Zilpo Campground warned, "Lot’s of bugs in May, but huge amount of ticks."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Grayson Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The sewer connection was higher than the bottom of my unit."
  • Level Sites: Look for level sites to avoid issues with your RV. A review for Carter Caves State Resort Park noted, "Navigating into some of the spots with a large rig can be challenging."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you need. A visitor at Yatesville Lake State Park Campground suggested, "Just wish they had sewer hookups."

Camping near Grayson Lake, Kentucky, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available at Grayson Lake State Park?

Grayson Lake State Park Campground offers a well-maintained camping area with sites suitable for both tents and RVs. The campground is situated on hilly terrain, with some sites better suited for RVs than tents. While the sites aren't completely private, they're nicely spaced to provide adequate room for setup. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Bruin Creek is a state-run campground within the park area that caters to fishing and wildlife enthusiasts. Bruin Creek offers a simpler camping experience with fewer amenities but is completely free. Both campgrounds provide access to Grayson Lake's scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Grayson Lake?

Grayson Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is excellent for fishing, boating, and exploring by kayak or canoe. Hiking trails around the lake range from easy to moderate difficulty and provide stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. For golfers, there's a course adjacent to Grayson Lake State Park Campground. While lake access from the campground can be limited in some areas, the water activities are a major draw. For those willing to explore the broader region, Zilpo Campground offers additional water-based recreation in a similar setting, with beautiful seasonal landscapes and good access to swimming areas.

What amenities are provided at Grayson Lake campgrounds?

Grayson Lake State Park Campground provides essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The campground features restroom facilities and water access. Sites are moderately developed with enough space for standard camping setups. For those looking for nearby alternatives with additional amenities, Yatesville Lake State Park Campground offers reservable sites with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. Bruin Creek campground within the Grayson Lake area provides more basic amenities, including bathrooms and water access, but with fewer developed facilities – making it ideal for those seeking a more rustic experience.