Fishtrap Lake sits within the mountainous terrain of Eastern Kentucky at around 760 feet elevation, with surrounding ridges rising several hundred feet higher. Most Fishtrap Lake campsites experience temperature ranges from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with higher humidity levels during warmer months. Access roads to many camping areas follow narrow mountain routes that can be challenging during wet conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Paintsville Lake State Park Campground, anglers find productive waters for various species. One camper noted, "Fishing was good with rooster tails and panther martin spinners (silver), 1/8 and 1/16 oz. The water was down so there were a lot of places to paddle onto the shore and wade fish."
Hiking trails: The trail system at Breaks Interstate Park Campground offers multiple difficulty levels through mountain terrain. "Wonderful park for pretty much everything from zip line to water park, and to some of the most gorgeous trails in the region," explains one visitor. Another adds, "We spent 6 nights here, hiked & biked a lot. Off season, so some of the amenities were closed."
Kayaking access: German Bridge at Dewey Lake provides direct water access for paddlers. According to a visitor, "I love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge." Another camper mentioned that it's "right off the back waters of Dewy lake. So great to kayaking or any small boats."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Backwoods Camping & RV Park maintains well-kept washrooms. "Several cabins, RV spots and grassy tent areas. The staff are very easy to work with... decent showers and bathrooms," reports one camper. Another stated, "They have showers and bathrooms. Fire pits and picnic tables."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room between sites at several areas. At Paintsville Lake, a visitor observed, "The campsites have plenty of room. We kayak and it was great being that close to the lake." Another camper noted, "The sites are spacious and level. The surrounding hills and lake are gorgeous."
Wildlife viewing: Area campgrounds offer opportunities to spot various animals. At Jenny Wiley State Park Campground, "White tail deer are frequent, and very tame," according to one camper. Another notes, "The park is kind of famous for having elk, which are common out west, but we didn't get to see any."
What you should know
Lake water quality concerns: Multiple reports indicate issues with Dewey Lake water. One camper warned, "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER!" Another mentioned, "The water is muddy a lot. But if you like catfishing, this is your Lake."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Jenny Wiley, "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception." Another camper reported, "There is limited cell coverage for ATT" at Backwoods Camping.
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities operate on limited schedules. At Lower Twin Campground, a primary concern is wildlife: "Great host, very clean.. Has showers, boat ramp, hiking, etc... ONLY downfall about the place is SNAKES... Be on the lookout for copperheads and rattlesnakes!!!"
Campsite setup variations: Many campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. At Jenny Wiley, campers should note that "you share a water spigot with a neighbor so you have to have a long hose to go across your whole section. There was only one hole for grey and black water."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Breaks Interstate Park offers supervised swimming areas. "There is a pool and waterpark on site, and a gift shop and camp store," explains one visitor. Families can also enjoy "zip line to water park, and to some of the most gorgeous trails in the region."
Playground access: Thunder River Campground provides recreation space for children. "Beautiful setting along the river at the base of the mountains. The owners and host are very nice, they even brought a trailer of firewood for campers to use over the weekend," notes one family.
Safety considerations: Parents should be aware of specific regional hazards. At Jenny Wiley State Park, one experienced camper recommends, "BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!"
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer unique recreation beyond typical outdoor activities. Jenny Wiley features "Jenny Wiley Theater, mid June-early August, Outdoor Theater, (kinda like Summer Stock); Theme or special dinners at the Lodge, (mostly on weekends), year round."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require equipment to level RVs properly. At Breaks Interstate Park, one RVer advised, "The campground itself isn't really all that great, prepare for some levelling." Another mentioned, "There are tons of sites to accommodate pretty much any rig."
Hookup positioning: Several campgrounds have unusual utility placement. As one RVer at Jenny Wiley noted, "Campsites are set up where the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
Road access challenges: The mountain terrain creates access difficulties. At Thunder River, a camper observed, "The railroad tracks are very close, so there is occasional train noise." Others note that many access roads involve steep climbs or tight turns.
Supply planning: Limited nearby services require advance preparation. One RVer at Backwoods Camping advised, "The things one must take into consideration is that you need to bring ANYTHING you might need for groceries and there is limited cell coverage."
