Best Tent Camping near Paintsville, KY
Daniel Boone National Forest offers several primitive tent camping options within driving distance of Paintsville, Kentucky. Red River Gorge Campground, located approximately 60 miles southwest of Paintsville, provides both established and dispersed tent camping with access to natural arches and river views. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Clearfield offers free tent-only camping sites along Cave Run Lake. Pleasant Ridge and Lawrence County Recreation Area provide additional tent camping options closer to Paintsville, though with minimal amenities. The Ole Cornfield features riverside tent sites with access to kayaking on the Licking River.
Most backcountry tent sites in the region require campers to bring all necessary supplies, as amenities are limited. At Red River Gorge, permits are required for dispersed camping and can be purchased in nearby towns like Slade. Vault toilets are typically available at trailheads and parking areas, but potable water is scarce at primitive sites. Fire rings are present at some locations, though not all. The terrain varies from flat, grassy areas along rivers to more rugged forest settings with natural shade. Seasonal considerations include potential muddy conditions after rain and limited cell service throughout most camping areas.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking, rock climbing, and water activities. According to reviews, the best primitive tent campsites at Red River Gorge are located near water sources. One camper noted that "camping is in the forest, so lots of shade" at the dispersed sites along Tunnel Ridge Road. At Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, visitors report excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with one camper observing herons fishing and woodpeckers in nearby trees. Walk-in tent sites at Hanson's Point require a 2.5-mile hike but reward campers with panoramic views. Weekday visits are recommended for those seeking solitude, as one visitor mentioned that weekend crowds can make the more accessible areas "a zoo."