Camping areas around Laurel River Lake offer both primitive sites and full-service campgrounds across Daniel Boone National Forest. The lake sits at 1,013 feet elevation and contains 5,600 acres of water with 192 miles of shoreline. Temperatures range from 68-88°F during peak camping season, and afternoon thunderstorms aren't uncommon during summer months.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Several trails near Bee Rock Rec Area provide excellent views over the river valley. "The hike to Bee Rock is very enjoyable. Lots of small falls and cool views of the muddy river," reports Tony E.
Waterfall exploration: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, just a short drive from Laurel River Lake, offers impressive waterfall viewing. "What a nice surprise! We aren't the type that typically makes reservations; and we were simply looking for a place to stay the night when we saw this state park on our trusty Nat Geo road atlas. Well, we found it…and stayed for nearly a week. Filled with waterfalls (the main falls are the largest south of Niagara Falls), numerous hiking trails, and the home of the only regular moonbow (lunar rainbow) in the northern hemisphere," shares Shari G. from Ridgeline Campground.
Kayak camping: For a unique experience, paddle to remote sites at Grove Boat-In Campground. "My first experience to a boat in and did it all on my own! My boat was my kayak. I parked at the Grove marina and packed all I could on my kayak and headed to the sites," explains Emilee B.
What campers like
Large, private sites: The spaciousness of many campsites provides room for pets and gear. "The sites are spaced out, large and completely shaded. There are several bathhouses and some include large sinks to wash supplies," says Carissa D. about Holly Bay.
Swimming opportunities: Beyond lake access, some campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. "They have a pond for fishing and another pond for swimming with nice Sandy beach. They also put out bouncy houses for the kids at no extra cost," notes John P. about Laurel Lake Camping Resort.
Multi-generational appeal: Activities for all ages make the area suitable for family reunions. "Staff was great - lots of activities for the kids to do through the State Park - Archery (free), Swimming Pool (free), and more free activities, horseback riding ($20pp). Camp host led scavenger hunts, lazer tag, capture the flag, etc in the campground in the evenings," explains Michael R. at Ridgeline Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same privacy or amenities. "We stayed in Site 19 - by far the most private site. 19 is actually a double site - two tent pads, two tables. Site is surrounded by forest on three sides. The rest of the sites are packed extremely close together," warns Michael R. about Ridgeline Campground.
Weather preparation: The area can experience quick weather changes. "The campground is so prone to flooding that they have the picnic tables on the lower loop chained down so they don't float away," mentions Tony E. at Bee Rock Rec Area.
Limited services in primitive areas: Some pet-friendly camping near Laurel River Lake lacks facilities. "A group of 6 campers on our way to the East Coast stayed over in Grove Campground, part of the Daniel Boone National Forrest. We stayed 2 nights in our site B12 and enjoyed the stay. Although COVID had bathroom closed, we brought our own," shares Don L.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access option: Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground offers swimming for relief from summer heat. "In the summer season you can take a trail off of loop I that leads to the community pool to cool off. The campground organizes fun activities for the summer holidays like tie dying, camper's only pool party, bingo, best decorated campsite," notes Joanna H.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites around campgrounds provide learning experiences. "The hiking trails are quite historic with Daniel Boone and other settlers' stories, including a historic mill, stone church, and cemeteries," shares Lynn G. at Levi Jackson.
Wildlife awareness: Animals are active in camping areas. "Keep following the tent signs, they will get you to Little Lick Campground. This is a primitive little campground out in the middle of nowhere... Bring your horse, bring your trail bike, bring your dogs. Be wary of shy bears and bobcats," advises Tombo T.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment to pet-friendly camping near Laurel River Lake. "Spots were pull through so that was a plus. Pretty unlevel though. Bring lots of blocks," suggests Travis S. at Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park.
Length restrictions: Check maximum vehicle sizes before booking. "Make sure to watch the 'max vehicle length' - we have a 21' van and we barely fit into our site that had a longer max length," warns Denise at Ridgeline Campground.
Hookup considerations: Utilities aren't always conveniently placed. "The water and electric hookup for this site is very far away from the actual site - we had to use a regular 110 extension cord to get the hookup to our van and we couldn't use the water at all because we only had a standard length hose," notes Denise.
