4 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
German Bridge - Dewey Lake accommodates horses through a barn where campers can board their horses for a small fee of approximately $15. Located near Fishtrap Lake, this campground provides basic amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, showers, and toilets. The small camping area sits on the backwaters of Dewey Lake, making it convenient for kayaking and small boats. While the campsite offers limited amenities compared to more developed facilities, its easy lake access and horse boarding capabilities make it appealing to equestrians. Sites cost around $15 with no hookups. The campground has both sunny and shaded sites depending on location.
The surrounding area features several trails suitable for horseback riding. Jenny Wiley State Park, located nearby, also offers horseback riding trails, though visitors must bring their own horses and gear. For riders wanting to explore the area, it's advisable to contact the Dewey Lake US Army Corps of Engineers or the park office for specific information on riding locations and rules. The lake provides additional recreational opportunities, though water quality concerns exist—multiple reviews note the lake can be muddy and has water quality issues. The campgrounds are typically quiet during weekdays but become more crowded on weekends, particularly during summer months when fishing and boating activities peak.
"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 $30 - $35 / 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"
"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"Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. "
"What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest."
from $20 - $35 / night
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GuideSmall sites but full hookups. Many amenities. multiple pools in the area, mini golf, animal exhibit although closed when we were there. Both trails we went on weren’t maintained well but the area was pretty.
GuideChief Logan has a lot of interesting things to see, including an outdoor animal exhibit, a lodge, a pool, a theatre, and a museum all close together.
Our site was full hook up and very level. 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. There was solar event with super rare aurora light show for this part of the world while we were there.
ScoutRoads in campground are rough in places. Electrical boxes are in rough shape at some sites. 30 amp kept tripping the breaker. WiFi does not work. Several sites have full hookup but sewer hookups need to be repaired and water hookups are far away.
GuideBeautiful, quiet spot. The staff was very easy to work with and very friendly. The wildlife exhibit is a fun detour ($2/person). We saw a water slide, putt-putt, and enjoyed the restaurant at the lodge. They have tours for the local elk there too. The town itself is cute and we enjoyed a date night at the local steakhouse. Great spot, perfect getaway!
TravelerHad a great camping weekend with a buddy at Cliffhanger Ranch. The cabin we stayed in is very cozy and good size for two people. We were able to have a few nice fires at the top of the hill with great views. What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest. There we were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area. Would highly recommend!
LegendJake from the Dyrt here! Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. Check them out and share of your favorite parts of the trip on the Dyrt!
RangerWe were there on Thursday thru Saturday. Thursday was so nice and quiet and then the weekend crew came in on Friday and it filled up fast. Unfortunately our neighbors were very noisy!!! We stayed in loop A, the other loops had many campers set up for the recent flood victims. Loop A was our favorite and it was close to the lake!
GuideStayed a couple of nights and we had a blast. Hiking right near the campground and lake is not far away at all.
ScoutOur campsite was supposed to be 38’ long but my 28’ camper was all that could fit, barely. Water spigot is far away from the site so I had to go purchase another water hose. Zero cell reception and no wifi. No television reception either. Almost everyone’s site was not flat and took a lot of work to get campers close to level, (watched people pull out after an hour trying to level). No extra parking for vehicles, just drive up into whatever muddy area is around your site. “No outside alcohol” signs everywhere.
German Bridge - Dewey Lake offers equestrian camping with water access at Fishtrap Lake in eastern Kentucky. The modest camping area sits in the Appalachian foothills at approximately 650 feet elevation where summers are warm and humid with temperatures regularly reaching the high 80s. Trail systems surrounding Dewey Lake provide multiple recreation options with moderate traffic during peak season.
Horseback riding trails: The trails near Jenny Wiley State Park connect to woodland paths where riders can bring their own horses. "If you want to do any horseback riding, you have to bring your own horse and gear, but contact the JWSP office first on where you can ride your horse," notes camper Tena G.
Fishing opportunities: Fishtrap Lake and Dewey Lake offer varied fishing conditions for different species. "Nestled in the Mountains of Eastern Ky, this is a nice little getaway. The fishing on Dewy Lake is awesome. The water is muddy a lot. But if you like catfishing, this is your Lake," says David O. who frequently visits the area.
Boat rentals: When cell service permits, call ahead to reserve watercraft. The marina at Jenny Wiley provides rental options for exploring the lake. "We did reserve a small boat and went swimming off of it," mentions camper Pamela S., though she advises checking water conditions.
Lake access for small boats: German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides convenient lake entry for non-motorized watercraft. "Love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge," reports Leah P., highlighting the scenic water views from this location.
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds around Fishtrap Lake maintain a peaceful atmosphere on weekdays. "I spent a Friday night there in late June 2020. Most of the campers were in RVs. I found a site at the end of a cul-de-sac away from the other campers. It appeared that the campers observed the quiet hours rules," shares Marc H. about his experience.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "The park is kind of famous for having elk, which are common out west, but we didn't get to see any," mentions Kim B. about Jenny Wiley State Park, which features dedicated wildlife areas.
Water quality concerns: Multiple campers report issues with lake water clarity and cleanliness. "The lake is gross. People using house boats are known to dump waste directly into the lake. If you don't plan on diving in and would rather just fish and hike, make time to take a trip here," advises Carrie J. at Chief Logan State Park.
Limited amenities at some sites: Several campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "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," explains Leah P. about German Bridge.
Variable cell service: Connectivity depends on specific location within each campground. "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception," reports Pamela S. about Jenny Wiley, while more developed areas near lodges typically offer better coverage.
Animal exhibits: Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost and nearby parks offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Beautiful, quiet spot. The staff was very easy to work with and very friendly. The wildlife exhibit is a fun detour ($2/person)," recommends Raquel R.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds provide pool facilities for summer use. "Chief Logan has a pool (open 11-6, cost $6), mini golf($3), paved courts($4/hr), and more," notes Kelly L., detailing specific costs for various activities.
Theater performances: Seasonal entertainment options exist for families. "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," shares Kim B. about Jenny Wiley State Park's cultural offerings.
Water hookup placement: At some campgrounds, utility placement requires planning. "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose," advises Frances F. based on her experience at Jenny Wiley State Park.
Leveling considerations: Many sites in the mountainous terrain require adjustments. "Our site was full hook up and very level. There was creek nearby and walking paths all over," reports Jeremiah S., highlighting the convenience of finding a properly graded campsite.
Dump station reliability: Facility maintenance can vary, especially during busy periods. "Dump station overflowed and closed. Toilets broken, plugged or poop all over toilets and floor," cautions John D. after a difficult weekend stay, emphasizing the importance of having backup disposal plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Fishtrap Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fishtrap Lake is Jenny Wiley State Park Campground with a 3.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Fishtrap Lake?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Fishtrap Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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