Join the fun near Laurel River Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.
"But 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."
"No amenities. The sky was beautiful. Would go again. About ten miles off 75. We were there in Sept 2025"
"Visited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping."
"Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening."
"There are three dispersed camp sites along this road. We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing."
ScoutNot able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine.
TravelerVisited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping. You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground. The entire river was frozen over and ponds were frozen too. There were a few cars that drove through the middle of the night but no issues. We left our site unattended for hours to check out the streams and rivers and nothing was missing. Lots of beer bottles left over and shattered so I have to pick up the trash before letting my dog out. There are more sites down the gravel road but we went with the first one we came to.
GuideOne picnic table and fire pit. Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening.
GuideThere are three dispersed camp sites along this road. We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing.
TravelerIt was wonderfully secluded, we used the car to “mow” the grass down, and set up fine. But 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. Outside for normal outside life inconvenience; it was a beautiful, quiet pasture. We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night. There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Laurel River Lake in Kentucky, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any amenities available for dispersed campers at Laurel River Lake?
Amenities at Laurel River Lake dispersed sites are minimal, as is typical for primitive camping. Redbird Boat Ramp provides water access for boating but limited camping facilities. At some sites like Trace Branch Dispersed, you might find basic amenities such as a picnic table and fire pit. Many dispersed campers bring portable fire pits to enjoy evenings by the water. Natural features often serve as the main amenities—some sites feature small swimming holes or scenic creek access. Pack in all necessities including water, food, and sanitation supplies, as there are no hookups, running water, or restroom facilities.
What are the regulations for dispersed camping at Laurel River Lake?
At Laurel River Lake, dispersed camping regulations require campers to use only designated sites. At Swain Ridge, camping in open fields is prohibited with potential fines of up to $1000, though camping at trailheads or roadsides is permitted. Campers must set up only on designated tent pads where provided. Be aware of environmental hazards like poison ivy along field edges. Always practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, properly extinguishing fires, and minimizing impact on the natural surroundings. Check current regulations before your trip, as rules may change seasonally.
Where can I find free tent camping around Laurel River Lake?
Free tent camping is available at several dispersed sites around Laurel River Lake. Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road offers designated tent pads for free camping, though be prepared with heavy-duty stakes as the ground can be firm. Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 provides multiple dispersed sites along the road, with the first site being the largest and having enough room for two camping groups. These areas provide secluded camping experiences without fees, though they lack developed facilities typical of established campgrounds.
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