12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
German Bridge Campground at Dewey Lake offers horse boarding in a barn for an additional fee of approximately $15. The campground provides reasonable primitive campsites at $15 per night with no hookups, some offering shade while others receive more sun. Most campers at German Bridge engage in boating or horseback riding activities, taking advantage of the nearby lake and trail access. The campground features clean shower and bathroom facilities. Campsites include picnic tables and fire pits with grates, though hookups are not available. The campground's layout accommodates both horse owners and general campers, with the barn providing secure overnight accommodations for horses.
Trails near Louisa connect riders to various scenic routes throughout the region. Jenny Wiley State Park offers horseback riding opportunities, though riders must bring their own horses and gear. Park officials recommend contacting the park office before arrival to confirm designated riding areas and current trail conditions. The German Bridge Campground area provides more extensive equestrian opportunities, approximately 30 minutes from Jenny Wiley Lodge. For detailed information about horse camping regulations, trail access, and seasonal availability, contacting the Dewey Lake US Army Corps of Engineers is advised. Carter Caves State Resort Park also accommodates horseback riding, with a separate horse camp area located away from the main campground, providing adequate separation for both horse and non-horse campers.
"Didn't appreciate the grill in the next site (thought it was too close to us). We were in Site #8. Not sure what all is around here."
"We stayed on the upper end by the veterans cemetery, even though it's close to the pool and playground, it was pretty quiet. Sites were a bit unlevel, but easy to back into."
from $55 - $85 / night
Check Availability"This is a beautiful state park with breathtaking views of creeks along the roadway, wonderful landscape designed by nature, good hiking trails, peaceful campground, and a nice lodge."
"We liked that we could walk to the bathrooms and not have to drive there. We stayed at site 100 and really enjoyed the shade trees."
from $25 - $85 / night
Check Availability"* Beautiful area of Kentucky Nice trails and great kayaking"
"Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"The park’s along the lake and has hiking, birding, a restaurant, and a nice surprise: an open air theatre with shows outside all summer."
"I lived in the Dewey Lake-JWSP area with family members, until 2002. Currently, I live about 10-15 minutes away from JWSP and visit the park at least once a month, depending on the weather."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Stayed here for one night on a road trip to the Great Lakes. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere but nestled nicely on a lake with pretty water and nice scenery."
"It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it."
from $35 - $150 / night
Check Availability"For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn. Campsites are a reasonable price with no hookups, $15."
"this campsite is not for the new camper, very limited on the nicer things at a campsite. but easy access to the lake. And great view"
"The hiking trails are scenic and pretty and the lake while not overly big, is clean and great for swimming(there's a beach) , kayaking, and fishing."
"Great campground with super easy access to the trail and lake. The sites are spread apart enough so you aren’t right beside someone - and shaded."
from $15 - $20 / night
Check Availability"If you're a tent person using Vesuvius as a home base for trail hiking, stick with Iron Ridge."
"Great location to earn some backpacking miles. Feels quite remote, but along the trails there are shelters, bathrooms, trash reciprocals, and other useful hookups."
from $35 - $52 / night
Check Availability"No water or electricity at the primitive campground, but you’re within walking distance of the main bathhouse which was nice and clean during my stay. "
"There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite."
from $16 / night
Check Availability"The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults. Giovanni's pizza restaurant on site has wifi. This campground is located out in God's country. "
from $20 / night
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GuideGreenbo is a small state park tucked away in beautiful greenup co a very quit peaceful park. With a little known secret outside of the area world class bass fishing. Yelp that’s right you wouldn’t ever guess that by the size of the lake but it’s fact and the restaurant at the lodge. Is outstanding
TravelerWe love Twin Knobs! We have camped there numerous times - in the Sping, Summer, and Fall. Electric and non electric sites. The campground staff is always a pleasure to interact with, and so kind! Always clean. Most sites are within walking distance to the lake. My only suggestion is I wish they had some playgrounds for small kids.
TravelerCampground is beautiful. Restrooms were very clean.
Mix of hook up and primitive. VERY spacious sites with privacy and space between. Its right on Cave Run Lake too.
Only negative we saw was widowmaker limbs in trees directly above campsites.
TravelerNice pool, most sites I could see have sewer. Water pressure was low. Very few shady sites on top level.
TravelerWe were surprised to find the store open when we arrived at 6, but woman inside was a trip. She could not seem to figure out how to do anything and talked to herself the whole time. Check in took about 20-30 minutes! She was very friendly though and explained how to get to our site. Tried to get propane- first she said she didn't know how to do it, then she decided she did, but wound up being clueless. She did let us change our site because it was so far from the bathroom. We had to go down a crazy steep narrow hill to get to the lower area. Thought it might be quiet but wound up on top of a busy road. Ok for an overnight. Huge street lights over us. Sites a little junky looking.
GuideThe equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done. Bathhouse is clean and up to date. The roads are narrow and windy.
TravelerVery clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.
GuidePrimitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway.
TravelerPlenty of spots, including pull thrus. More affordable than some of the nearby state “resort” parks, though without much in the way of shade or scenery. Staff is very kind, helpful, and understanding. Perfect for an overnight.
German Bridge Campground at Dewey Lake offers equestrian facilities and primitive camping options near Louisa, Kentucky. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 650 feet elevation, this area features a mix of hardwood forests and scenic lake views. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 85°F from June through August and mild winters with occasional snow, making spring through fall the prime camping seasons.
Fishing access points: Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area provides excellent fishing opportunities with multiple access points around the lake. "The Whiskey Run also offers just enough lake access to let your dogs swim or to put a pole in the water," notes Brew W., who also mentions the limited shore access can get crowded during peak season.
Family swimming areas: The beach area at Twin Knobs Recreation Area includes a camp store and swimming facilities. "You camp on rock sites so it drains great if it rains. The sites are kinda secluded from one another by tree and bush lines... There is a camp store, beach and boat ramp," explains Kellie Dawn T.
Historical exploration: Near Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground, visitors can explore geological formations and historical sites. "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something!" recommends Chris B.
Private campsites: Campers appreciate the privacy between sites at several locations. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, a camper notes, "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites. There are shower and toilet facilities close by. The campground is located on a lake."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. At Chief Logan State Park Campground, Jennifer B. shares, "There's a small wildlife center where you can see bears, bobcats and raptors in enclosures for a $2.00 donation. The caretaker helped me get some nice photos of the bears by putting some honey and peanut butter on the fence around their enclosure."
Affordable camping: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates for primitive camping. At German Bridge, sites cost approximately $15 per night, while other nearby parks offer competitive pricing. "Not much shade but then again it's a fairly new KOA and the trees haven't had time to grow," mentions Jerry S. about the Ashland Huntington West KOA, highlighting how newer facilities are still developing.
Water hookup limitations: Many campsites have unusual water hookup arrangements. "The camp site beside us had a pull camper, a truck camper, and 2 small tents. There were about 15 people on the site and it got pretty loud at night," notes Karen P. about one crowded weekend at Carter Caves.
Limited cell service: Cell phone reception varies significantly across campgrounds. "No AT&T service, but Verizon had service," reports Karen P. about Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, while other campgrounds may have no service at all.
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region have water quality issues. "Do not drink the water from this lake... and don't swim in it either!" warns Tena G. about Dewey Lake, emphasizing the importance of bringing your own drinking water.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer specialized areas for children. "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee. Pool was small but big enough to enjoy," mentions Brooke V. about facilities at Ashland Huntington West KOA.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide learning experiences for children. "The museum gives you some background on the local coal industry and the hardy settlers who clashed with the American Indians when this area was still used as their hunting grounds," notes Jennifer B. about Chief Logan State Park.
Safety considerations: When camping with children, be aware of local wildlife. "You won't have to pay a dime to see deer. I spotted dozens of does, bucks and fawns during my stay, so keep your eyes peeled because they don't seem terribly cautious around people or cars," observes Jennifer B.
Extended hookups: Several RV campers mention the need for longer hookup equipment. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though," advises Ron & Bonnie D. about camping at Carter Caves State Resort Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose your site carefully based on your specific needs. "Our site had w/e," notes Liz about Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, adding, "Some sites are really small and some are right along the road. Not crowded at all during our visit. Some sites are sloped from slight to more severe."
Seasonal weather considerations: Weather can affect camping conditions dramatically. "It rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well," shares Karen P. about Twin Knobs, highlighting the importance of good drainage at campsites during wet conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Louisa, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Louisa, KY is Ashland Huntington West Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Louisa, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Louisa, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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