Dispersed camping near Louisa, Kentucky offers primitive sites situated within the surrounding Wayne National Forest in Ohio and Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet and mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, hickory, and maple trees. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with occasional rain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Paragon Dispersed Camping Area provides direct access to Cave Run Lake where campers can fish from shore or launch boats. According to Wayne H., "This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups. Most spots have boat in access!"
Trail exploration: The Sand Hill Trailhead area offers hiking access with views of Vesuvius Lake. As Marisa A. notes, "It is a very pretty area along Vesuvius Lake with trees and bluffs. We saw a ranger in the morning and he suggested next time we just camp at the horsecamp."
Wildlife observation: Many of the dispersed camping areas provide chances to spot local wildlife. At Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, campers frequently observe various bird species. One camper shares, "We saw woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize. The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!"
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: The free camping at most dispersed sites makes this area popular for cost-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. At Sand Hill Trailhead, campers appreciate that "The NF website says fires are allowed if you make a stone ring," though some choose to skip campfires altogether.
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping spots are highly sought after. Wayne National Forest provides several water-adjacent camping locations where campers can enjoy scenic views and easy water access for recreation.
Solitude on weekdays: Visiting during non-peak times offers a more peaceful experience. Sandra M. from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area advises, "It is a beautiful campground.. just make sure you clean up after your selves so the next person doesn't have to clean your mess! If you leave food and garbage out you will attract Bears."
What you should know
Site cleanliness varies: Many reviewers mention trash issues at dispersed camping areas. At Hanging Rock Recreation Site, Rob G. reports, "The good was I found a spot quickly and had 2 entire ponds to myself. The bad was locals firing guns for the hell of it for an hour straight and the trash left behind from the previous campers."
Gate access restrictions: Some areas have intermittent closures. Dylane S. notes about Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, "June 2019 was not able to access the campsite due to a gate blocking the road."
Limited privacy: Sites can be close together at some locations. One camper observes, "The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are present in the area. Sandra M. advises, "Always remember we are in their home so yes they will come for food! Just keep your area tidy and clean and take your trash with you when you leave."
Tips for camping with families
Bring cleaning supplies: Pack trash bags and gloves to clean up sites if needed. Lucille W. from Hanging Rock Recreation Site reports, "Along and just off the trails were tons of gorgeous wildflowers like trilliums, violets, showy orchids, and more!"
Research location carefully: The mixed public and private land can be confusing. "Wayne National Forest is a maze of public and private land," warns one camper. "Next time I will purchase a paper map before I go because Wayne National Forest has alot of private lands interspersed."
Consider safety factors: Some areas may have late-night visitors or noise issues. One camper at Hanging Rock Recreation Area warns, "Not the greatest place to camp. Trash in most places, people partying all the time. Watch for needles if you go! Be sure to wear shoes."
Pack all essentials: No services are available at most sites. Lynn G. reminds campers, "This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment."
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Many dispersed camping areas have restricted turning space for larger vehicles. Jay S. from Hanging Rock Recreation Site shares, "We stayed in the parking lot as it was getting dark and didn't know if there were any place to turn our rv around. Very quiet night and were visited by fireflies which was awesome."
Solar power benefits: For longer stays, solar setups are valuable. One RVer explains, "There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites."
Arrive early on weekends: Limited spaces fill quickly, especially during summer. "We arrived late at night wishing we had better cell reception and a paper map of the National Forest," notes one camper who struggled to find an appropriate site after dark.
Self-contained systems required: No hookups are available at any dispersed sites, requiring RVers to bring all necessary water and manage waste appropriately. Most sites have no dump stations nearby.
