Kingdom Come State Park, about 45 miles from Lynch, Kentucky, offers tent camping in a mountainous setting at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,700 feet. The area features hardwood forests with diverse wildlife including black bears, which campers should be aware of when storing food and supplies. The region's moderate climate allows for comfortable camping from spring through fall with typical daytime highs of 75-85°F in summer.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kingdom Come State Park has a small stocked lake where visitors can catch trout, bass, and other fish. "The 7th [campsite] is of by itself and about 100 feet from the lake in a more secluded area," notes Brian B. about Kingdom Come State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Connect multiple shorter trails for longer adventures throughout the region. "The surrounding mountains provide many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired," according to Sarah at Kingdom Come State Park. For more dramatic terrain, visit Breaks Interstate Park where "there are tons of sites to accommodate pretty much any rig" and some of "the most gorgeous trails in the region," says paul C. about Breaks Interstate Park Campground.
Rock formations: Explore unique geological features like Raven Rock and Log Rock. "Our favorite is the Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains," shares Brian B. "There is also a natural rock bridge close to the campsites called Log Rock."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many visitors appreciate the quiet, less-crowded camping areas. "Kingdom Come State Park is a little jewel in southeastern Kentucky! There are 6 tent sites (7 if they allow you to reserve the one next to the duck pond)," explains Sarah about Kingdom Come State Park. Each site includes "a gravel drive, mulch tent pad big enough for two smallish tents, fire ring, and picnic table."
Free firewood service: Rangers provide complimentary firewood at select campgrounds. "Oh, I failed to mention free firewood. Everyday a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping," shares Brian B. about Kingdom Come State Park.
Off-grid experience: The area offers true disconnection from technology. "Great area, no service or wifi," notes wyman M. about Kingdom Come State Park. At Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake, "There is also no cell service here, so be prepared to unplug and unwind," reports Damon O.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Black bears are active in parts of the region. "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions," advises Grant M. about Kingdom Come State Park. The campground provides poles for securing food safely: "Each site has it's own picnic table, fire pit, and pole for stashing your food away from bears," explains Brian B.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. For Trace Branch, "DO NOT TAKE 'PLEASANT VALLEY RD' into the campgrounds! That road takes you on a single lane road and if you meet another vehicle, someone will have to backup. The road is extremely washed out and huge chunks are gone. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS!" warns j B.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate primarily during warmer months. At Buckhorn Dam Campground, the season runs "May 1 to September 29," while Trace Branch operates from "early May-late September."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly facilities. At Buckhorn Dam Campground, visitors find "Hands down the best playground for kids we have seen in a campground," according to Marissa G. The site offers "a great area for their bikes, etc." along with "a basketball court, swing, and volleyball court."
Water activities: Multiple lakes and rivers provide swimming and boating opportunities. "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others," mentions Brian B. about Kingdom Come State Park. At Trace Branch, campsites are "right on the water" with "a boat ramp" nearby, perfect for family water recreation.
Educational experiences: Some parks offer ranger-led programs about local ecology. At Kingdom Come, watch for "educational activities" similar to when one visitor remembered "picking apart an owl pellet with the ranger. Very outdoor educational."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check campground specifications for your RV size. At Kingdom Come State Park, there are "6 sites that are tent-centric but doable with a small trailer," according to Grant M. He adds, "the road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground, "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks," advises Michelle I. Similarly, at Buckhorn Dam Campground, site 13 was "nearly perfectly level from left to right" but other sites may vary.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Lynch, Kentucky, Natural Tunnel State Park offers yurt accommodations. "As far as yurts go, I think the price was reasonable and is a little bit more separated from the rest of the sites which is a plus!" reports Alexis R. about Natural Tunnel State Park Yurts. "Yurt itself was clean, comfortable and super spacious for just 3 people."
