The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Camping near Laurel River Lake

558 Reviews

Several good campgrounds sit close to Laurel River Lake in Kentucky. Renfro Valley KOA has full hookups and a swimming pool that kids enjoy during hot weather. The Farm RV Resort keeps their sites level and roomy, which works well for bigger RVs and longer stays. If you want to camp near water, Indian Mountain State Park Campground has waterfront sites and maintains clean bathrooms. Blue Heron Campground sits near a fishing pond and has nice views of the surrounding hills. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable camping weather around the lake. Summers get pretty hot, though swimming in the lake helps cool things off. Winter camping is quieter, with cooler temperatures that make hiking more comfortable. Some campsites give you more privacy than others - it varies by campground. Most sites have decent tree cover, which helps when the sun gets strong. While staying at the lake, you can hike trails, fish, or just hang out by the water. Check ahead about any closed areas or rules that might change with the seasons. The lake area has good options whether you want to fish, hike, or just relax outside.

Map showing campgrounds near Laurel River Lake, KentuckyExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Laurel River Lake (139)

    1. Ridgeline Campground — Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    38 Reviews
    Parkers Lake, KY
    9 miles
    +1 (606) 309-4808

    $28 - $37 / night

    "Sadly, there is a massive amount of trash at the bottom (as you can see in the pictures posted here) which takes away from the natural appearance of the falls."

    "It’s has many (12) trails and many falls. Would definitely recommend shopping before camping, it’s several miles, and mountains, to get to stores."

    2. Holly Bay

    16 Reviews
    Keavy, KY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (606) 528-6156

    $46 - $92 / night

    "Clean bathrooms with showers in walking distance. Helpful staff. Stunning views. Great hiking paths. Bring you boats, bikes, kayaks, fishing poles and bathing suits. The water is fantastic!"

    "Swim next to show, bring your pets, tie up you're boat, be around friendly people or private, primitive to big pull thru, clean, great staff, prettiest lake in KY, best camp sites with poles, shady, level"

    3. Bee Rock Rec Area

    10 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    $8 - $12 / night

    "Visiting Daniel Boone is like stepping back in time. A lot of history from the origins as well as the structures built."

    "You can still walk across the bridge to get to Bee Rock and the hiking trail to the top, just can't camp over there."

    4. Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA

    10 Reviews
    Corbin, KY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 528-1534

    "Corbin n/Laurel Lake KOA First! Do not trust your navigation. Once you get off the interstate look for the KOA signs."

    "Being April, it was still a little cool and we had a rain day, their are several places to go around Corbin. Take a quiet peaceful walk down the back trail to Laurel River Dam."

    5. Laurel Lake Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 526-7876

    "Nice campground surrounded by forest. 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."

    "Drive in camper spots, drive up to tent spots. Two ponds. Close to laurel lake. Gated and safe. Store for all your needs."

    6. Grove

    6 Reviews
    Keavy, KY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 528-6156

    $32 - $92 / night

    "Primitive camping if you like to really rough it with nice trails to each spot. The camp hosts comes by nightly to see if you need wood or ice."

    "Close to laurel lake and close to the marina. Corbin is nearby also, where the original KFC is by the way! Also check out Cumberland falls in the area!!"

    7. Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

    8 Reviews
    Rockholds, KY
    9 miles
    Website

    $25 - $174 / night

    "This campground is conveniently located near Corbin, KY. It sits right off the main road on the way to Cumberland Falls. There are plenty of signs and it is well marked, easy to find."

    "Family owned with a great general store, clean facilities and close to Cumberland Falls state park and Laurel lake."

    8. Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    London, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 330-2130

    "Many activities at the park and it is also close to the birth place of Kentucky Fried Chicken. They have nice sites for larger campers and some for small units that are more shaded."

    "Decent WIFI which was a big plus and, while we stayed in a full hook up site, the dump station was well positioned and easy to navigate."

    9. Grove Boat-In Campground

    4 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    "It was dark once I set up but an awesome could helped me with fire wood and had a nice talk around their campfire. Beautiful area. Very busy on labor day weekend!!"

    10. Little Lick Campground

    4 Reviews
    Laurel River Lake, KY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    $2 - $15 / night

    "Take an awesome little ferry across the river (or drive around). Tent sites vary in privacy. Great simple site, clean. No trails on site but we did a pretty one nearby (forget the name)."

    "Bring your horse, bring your trail bike, bring your dogs. You might want to bring a generator too."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 139 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Laurel River Lake Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Laurel River Lake

201 Photos of 139 Laurel River Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Laurel River Lake

558 Reviews of 139 Laurel River Lake Campgrounds

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 16, 2025

    TVA Public Land- Fork Bend

    Nice back road drive and camping by the lake!

    I was raised in this area and it was always the party spot for teens. So I was a little apprehensive about going here. But sooo glad we did. It was a late fall night and we had the entire area to ourselves by the water. Reminder the lake is really low all fall/winter before Memorial Day. It was quiet and serene and you could hear the fish jumping all evening. Some people did ride by on their four wheelers but there’s tons of ATV trails around here. Not as trashy as reviews said. And lots of man made rock fire pits. Some good flat spots for tents and we car camped.

    Overall a great FREE camp spot nearby. I imagine summer nights it gets busy and packed with party/lake crowds so try it for the fall! You can go to the water and our dog loved it. So side note. It’s a long rougher gravel drive in. Our truck did good and our friends Subaru. But I wouldn’t do a car. It’s a long drive back but super secluded and a scenic drive. Also no bathrooms but tons of spots to go away from camp! Area is all around boat dock marinas for summer food/beer!

  • Heidi H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2025

    Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed Site 3

    Jellico Creek #3

    Using the coordinates from the dispersed site #1 post, we found our way down the road and settled on the third site. Not huge, but right next to the creek. Went to sleep to the sound of coyotes and woke up to turkeys gobbling, and saw otters in the creek over breakfast. Someone had left a bunch of trash when we showed up, bottles, cardboard, cigarette boxes, etc but we picked it up and made the most of it. Not a bunch of places to use the bathroom but just do your best. Minimal traffic down the road. Saw one car pass while we were at our site? The drive in is beautiful in the fall. 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.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2025

    Wilderness Road Campground

    Cozy

    Love this place…simple…peaceful… quiet…lots of shade for summer heat…beautiful fall colors…

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 6, 2025

    Cumberland Falls RV Resort

    Excellent Quiet Beautiful Clean Park

    We spent the day at Cumberland Falls State Park. Sharon told us about the Moonbow which just happened to occur the exact night we were there. We arrived at the park late after the amazing Moonbow and were so happy it was only a mile away. The sites were very spacious and exceptionally clean. Trevor met us at the site. It was a nice welcome and they even gave us a goody bag. Easy hook-ups from there. We enjoyed the full moon view over a peaceful fire (they have firewood available). Woke up to incredible tall trees all around us with colorful fall leaves. It was exactly what we needed. We stayed at site 11 which has a great view of the entire property. We had to continue on our journey so didn’t get to explore the lake but hope to be back to do more trails and stay here again. 10/10 recommend. PS service was a little spotty but this was a welcome break for us.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

    So perfect

    This place has clean bathrooms, wifi, secluded spots on the river to fish. Enough space for group camping too. Pick the spot the stump of banks end for the best river side spot. Book on Hipcamp! The host is amazing and delivers anything you need. Firewood, fishing bait, even fresh chicken eggs from the farm. Also does dog grooming! And you can book extra to spend time with the fluffy cows! Close to Cumberland falls!

  • Jessica V.
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Rustling Pines Campground LLC

    Love this place!

    The site was beautiful and I absolutely loved the personal care. They called to make sure I had everything in order and drove us down to the campsite.

  • magickelf969@aol.com
    Oct. 19, 2025

    True West Campground & Stables

    Not safe for animals

    Stalls/barn is filthy. The owners had their own horses removed from their custody by animal control for neglect. The horses were skin and bones even though they sell feed in their store.

  • Geo M.
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Black House Mountain Campground

    Good little camp ground

    This is a small isolated little camp ground. Very well maintain. Wifi is great. Small cabins and rv spaces.

  • Mary D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Anderson County Park

    Amazing Site!

    This is one of my new absolute favorite sites yet! While a majority of the campground is long-term, the sites along water are not. This specific spot was huge and next to a wooded area and nature walk and, in my opinion, the best site in the whole campground! The bathhouse was small, but functional and clean. The campground host was exceptionally friendly. No wifi. I have US Cellular and had limited service. Enough to maybe look something up and receive texts.

Guide to Laurel River Lake

Camping near Laurel River Lake, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. One visitor noted, "The trails and Cumberland falls were awesome," highlighting the park's stunning natural beauty.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Holly Bay. A camper mentioned, "Lots of riverfront locations where you can fish off the bank," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a scenic ride at Blue Heron Campground. One reviewer said, "A 45-minute horse ride for $25 is an absolute steal," showcasing the affordable outdoor experiences available.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Indian Mountain State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "The bathhouse was nice and clean," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy at Holly Bay. One camper shared, "Nice secluded sites. A little hard to get to but peaceful once you settle in," emphasizing the tranquility of the area.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Renfro Valley KOA is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere. A reviewer said, "The pool, miniature golf, and bounce pad were a huge hit with our granddaughter," making it a great choice for families.

What you should know:

  • Tight Campsites: If you're planning to camp at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, be aware that "the campsites are exactly the length as indicated. Not an inch more!" This is important for those with larger rigs.
  • Limited Cell Service: Campers at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park reported, "We had no T-Mobile service, or satellite service in our vehicle," so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
  • Old Facilities: Some campers found the facilities at Pulaski County Park lacking. One review stated, "Bathhouse; showers are so outdated and barely cleaned," which might be a concern for some.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Renfro Valley KOA is a great option. A camper noted, "Super staff and lots to do for kids," making it ideal for family trips.
  • Plan for Activities: At Indian Mountain State Park Campground, families can enjoy "two playgrounds, a Disc golf course, and a beautiful lake," ensuring there's something for everyone.
  • Check for Amenities: Before booking, check what amenities are available. One camper at Waitsboro Campground mentioned, "The bathhouse was very clean and the showers were hot," which is a plus for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Level Sites: RVers at Indian Mountain State Park Campground appreciated the "full hook up with good cell service," making it a solid choice for RV camping.
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: If you're heading to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, remember that "the majority of the sites do not have so much as a weed between them," so plan your setup accordingly.
  • Check Accessibility: At Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA, one reviewer noted, "Lead-in off of the interstate was easy. Access is good," which is helpful for RVers looking for convenience.

Camping near Laurel River Lake, Kentucky, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds at Laurel River Lake in Kentucky?

Laurel River Lake offers several excellent camping options. White Oak Boat-In Campground is a local favorite within Daniel Boone National Forest, accessible by small boat, canoe, or biking in on a dirt service road for a more secluded experience. Grove provides convenient drive-in access with water and toilet facilities, making it perfect for families and larger RVs. For those seeking waterfront camping with modern amenities, consider Holly Bay with its large, private wooded sites that include electric and water hookups, clean bathrooms with showers, and stunning lake views. These campgrounds offer varying levels of accessibility and amenities, letting you choose between more primitive experiences or comfortable camping with conveniences.

How much does it cost to stay at Laurel Lake Camping Resort?

Camping fees at Laurel River Lake vary by campground and amenities. At Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA, expect to pay between $40-65 per night for sites with full hookups. For more budget-friendly options, Holly Bay offers electric and water sites for approximately $25-35 per night. Most public campgrounds operated by the Forest Service charge between $15-30 per night depending on amenities. Boat-in campgrounds like White Oak typically have lower fees around $10-15 per night. For the most accurate pricing, check recreation.gov for public campgrounds or contact private resorts directly as rates may change seasonally and can increase during peak summer months.

What amenities are available at Laurel River Lake beach areas?

Laurel River Lake beach areas provide a variety of amenities for day-use visitors. The main beaches feature designated swimming areas with sandy shorelines, picnic tables, and charcoal grills. Most beach areas have vault toilets or restroom facilities, though not all have running water. Grove Boat-In Campground offers beach access with basic facilities, while beaches near Bee Rock Rec Area provide more developed amenities. Visitors will find parking areas, trash receptacles, and some shaded picnic spots at most beach locations. Be aware that lifeguards are not typically present, and some beaches may charge a small day-use fee during peak season. Boat ramps are available near most beach areas for those wanting to launch watercraft.

Keep Exploring

  4. View all Kentucky cities for camping