Best Campgrounds near Paintsville, KY

Paintsville is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Paintsville, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Paintsville, Kentucky (83)

    1. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    4 miles
    Website

    "Close to many local attractions in and around Paintsville. Only drawback was lack of any Verizon signal. Understand that AT&T and TMobile had some service."

    "We love fishing on Paintsville Lake! The boat dock is just above the playground and basketball/volleyball courts, plus there are plenty of places to fish on the bank. Gorgeous views."

    2. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auxier, KY
    7 miles
    Website

    "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."

    3. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 673-1492

    $18 - $30 / night

    "In my opinion the best sites are the boat in tent camping sites down the hill by the lake. The sites also run along a gravel rode that can be used to hike in."

    "It's been a few years since I've visited Yatesville Lake State Park Campgrounds but it used to be a staple of my summer. The campsites are a LONG distance from each other."

    4. Wildcat Camping and Fishing

    2 Reviews
    Flatgap, KY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 265-3629

    $50 / night

    "Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels."

    5. German Bridge - Dewey Lake

    4 Reviews
    Dewey Lake, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 789-4521

    "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"

    "There is a lake nearby, and most of the other campers were boating or horseback riding.

    Showers and bathrooms."

    6. Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 474-9727

    $30 / night

    "This stunning Eastern Kentucky State Park offers spectacular views of rock formations, tree lined roads, and a stunning lake."

    "The flattest spots are in the middle of the circle with an open field behind them (but then you won't have any privacy or tree coverage)."

    7. Falls Campground

    9 Reviews
    Louisa, KY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 826-0212

    $37 - $72 / night

    "The sites are nice and most have direct access to the creek and beach area. Privately owned so not ruled to death like some state park campgrounds."

    "There's a dollar general at the entrance."

    8. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $28 - $94 / night

    "Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer."

    "E-12 was close enough to the bathrooms that it wasn’t a bad walk but we didn’t have to smell anything. Water pump was across from the campsite. Plenty of space for four tents. Sturdy pic-nic table."

    9. Carter Caves State Resort Park

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    "Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."

    "Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."

    10. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    45 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / night

    "We've some spent time now in Kentucky and Red River Gorge area is one of favorites in this state. The campground is good pretty simple."

    "It is located just off Exit 11 on the Bert T Combs Parkway (the highway that runs through the area, which is a beautiful drive itself)."

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Recent Reviews near Paintsville, KY

588 Reviews of 83 Paintsville Campgrounds



Guide to Paintsville

Camping near Paintsville, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails in the area. Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground rave about the "great hiking trails leaving directly from the campground." The trails lead into the stunning Red River Gorge, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

  • Fishing and Kayaking: If you enjoy water activities, Zilpo Campground is ideal for kayaking and fishing. One reviewer mentioned it as "perfect for kayaking and fishing," highlighting the campground's access to Cave Run Lake.

  • Caving: Visit the nearby caves at Carter Caves State Resort Park. A visitor noted, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds," making it a fun spot for families and adventurers alike.

What campers like

  • Privacy and Space: Campers at Zilpo Campground appreciate the "more privacy and more primitive" campsites. This makes it a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors to Koomer Ridge Campground mention the cleanliness of the facilities. One camper said, "The campground is very well maintained," which is a big plus for families.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. At Carter Caves State Resort Park, a reviewer noted, "The staff are all very friendly," making for a welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult," so plan accordingly if you rely on electricity.
  • Traffic Noise: Campers at Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park noted that "traffic noise" can be an issue. If you're sensitive to noise, consider this when choosing your site.
  • Bug Awareness: During certain times of the year, bugs can be a nuisance. One camper at Koomer Ridge Campground warned about "lots of bugs in May," so be prepared with bug spray.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. Carter Caves State Resort Park has a playground and various hiking options, making it family-friendly.
  • Plan for Clean Facilities: Families appreciate clean restrooms and showers. Campers at Twin Knobs Recreation Area mentioned that "bath houses/restrooms were very clean and nice," which is a big plus for parents.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. Campers at Sandy Springs Campground enjoyed the "planned fun activities," so consider bringing along some treats for downtime.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be too small for larger RVs. A reviewer at Koomer Ridge Campground noted that "a lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV," so do your research before booking.
  • Bring Extra Cords: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, a camper advised, "Be prepared to bring extra electric cord and hose," as hookups can be far from some sites.
  • Look for First-Come, First-Serve Sites: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. Arriving early can help secure a good spot.

Camping near Paintsville, Kentucky, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Paintsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paintsville, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 83 campgrounds and RV parks near Paintsville, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paintsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paintsville, KY is Paintsville Lake State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paintsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Paintsville, KY.

What parks are near Paintsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Paintsville, KY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.