Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park sits about 35 miles south of Madisonville, Kentucky in the western coal field region. The area features distinctive rolling hills with sandstone and shale outcroppings that create interesting natural formations. Most campgrounds in this region offer camping from April through October, with some sites maintaining significant slopes that require careful selection for level camping.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Mauzy East provides free shoreline access for anglers. "Absolutely beautiful! Been traveling 150 days, 23 states plus DC...THE most pretty state! We lucked out and got an amazing spot... well they're all great! Super quiet, tons of birds, and we saw snake mounds but not yet seen one...birds and butterflies and owls," reports Adrianne.
Mountain biking trails: Hillman Ferry Campground connects directly to regional trail systems. "A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground!! The Canal Loop Trail and North South Trails are well known and revered by area mountain bikers and hikers," notes Melissa T.
Cave exploration: Take a day trip to see unique geological formations. "Short walk down to the historical cave where river pirates and a few other notorious bad guys stayed. Definitely worth a look after taking the ferry across from Amish country," explains Shelly S.
What Campers Like
White sand beaches: Hurricane Creek offers water access with camping nearby. "Tent sites are right next to the beach so kids can go back and forth easily. Bathhouse is very clean and kept up. Sites can be on an incline but if you are from here you know that terrain near the lake area is very hilly!" says Heather M.
Dog friendly sites: Many campgrounds near Madisonville welcome pets with minimal restrictions. "Wow! What a lovely campground! Quiet and well shaded, we had a spot close to the water and absolutely loved it. Everyone was friendly and it was very relaxing. We walked our dogs around the loop several times throughout the day," shares Jody A.
Restaurant access: Some state parks include dining options. "The lodge restaurant was amazing buffet and the banana pudding was amazing as well. They do serve a sandwich called Hot Brown I guess it known in Kentucky was good," reports Erin R.
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Most campgrounds in this region require leveling equipment. "Overall a beautiful park that is one of my wife's favorites. I'm really surprised that all sites were paved with such bad slopes. If the state would come back in and level the sites then pave this would be a jewel," explains John R. at Diamond Lake Resort Campground.
Hookup access issues: Many sites require extended equipment. "We had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together," notes Erin R.
Limited weekend availability: Popular sites fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "We are the only campers here in a very well kept campground. The bathrooms are clean and the only sound is from the birds. $20 for a state park site with electricity is incredible," reports Larry R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access planning: Moffitt Rec Area offers water activities for children. "Very quiet and peaceful. Cody was super friendly and very helpful," shares Tammy.
Playground options: Look for sites near activity areas. "There are 2 playgrounds, multiple bath houses and a cute little store that you can walk/bike to. There is also lake access from multiple sites and a beach area. Bring your bikes or golf cart," recommends Meagan L.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning or evening animal watching. "We even saw a bald eagle within 15 minutes drive from the park," notes Nicole P.
Tips from RVers
Best dog friendly campgrounds near Madisonville: Western Kentucky RV Park offers accessible pet areas. "If you're tired and need a quiet place to rest, look no further. Each site has electric and water. Back in and stay awhile. Parking is easy on the gravel lot. It's clean and the folks are very nice," explains Chris O.
Equestrian area advantages: Non-horse campers can reserve these sites for better conditions. "Campsite host very nice and people in nearby towns very nice also. Enjoyed talking with the locals. Only reason I don't give campground a 5 is due to the very sloped sites. Most are very difficult to level up," shares John R.
Maintenance considerations: Facilities vary widely between parks. "Sites along the water are great. Full hook ups don't offer the view but plenty to do and very well priced," notes Michael F.
