Dispersed camping near Lake Cumberland offers primitive backcountry sites across the Daniel Boone National Forest's eastern Kentucky terrain. The region features densely wooded hills with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet, creating secluded camping opportunities throughout multiple creek watersheds. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Explore creek swimming: Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 provides natural water recreation opportunities. "This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing," notes camper Pam B.
Wildlife observation: Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed Site 3 offers excellent natural habitat viewing. "Went to sleep to the sound of coyotes and woke up to turkeys gobbling, and saw otters in the creek over breakfast," reports Heidi H.
Stargazing: Swain Ridge provides exceptional night sky views away from light pollution. A camper shares, "There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!"
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Campers appreciate the peaceful water access at many sites. "We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening," describes a visitor at Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting supports diverse animal sightings. "We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night," recounts Sierra E. at Swain Ridge.
Seclusion: Many sites provide isolation from crowds. "It was wonderfully secluded, we used the car to 'mow' the grass down, and set up fine," notes a Swain Ridge camper.
Winter accessibility: Some sites remain open year-round. "Visited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping," shares Matthew H. about Trace Branch.
What you should know
Limited infrastructure: No facilities exist at these dispersed sites. "Not huge, but right next to the creek... Not a bunch of places to use the bathroom but just do your best," explains a Jellico Creek camper.
Navigation challenges: Some access roads have confusing junctions. "There is a point where Jellico Creek Rd continues straight, and also peels off to the right, it's really weird. But take the option to the right down across the small bridge," advises Heidi H.
Trash issues: Previous campers sometimes leave debris. "Lots of beer bottles left over and shattered so I had to pick up the trash before letting my dog out," reports a visitor at Trace Branch.
Camping restrictions: Rules vary by location. Jacob M. warns about Redbird Boat Ramp: "Not able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine."
Tips for camping with families
Designated spaces: Look for established camping areas. "You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground," advises Matthew H.
Natural hazards: Watch for potential dangers. "We did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there," cautions Sierra E.
Site preparation: Vehicle access allows for some site improvements. "We used the car to 'mow' the grass down, and set up fine," describes a camper at Swain Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Limited space availability: Most sites accommodate only small numbers of vehicles. "Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities," notes Kody Bear A. about Redbird Boat Ramp.
Access roads: Drive-in sites require navigating unpaved roads. "About ten miles off 75. We were there in Sept 2025," reports an RVer about the Redbird location.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings scenic drives to some sites. "The drive in is beautiful in the fall," mentions a Jellico Creek camper about the approach road.
