Top Free Dispersed Camping near Prestonsburg, KY

Want to go dispersed camping near Prestonsburg? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Prestonsburg's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Prestonsburg, KY (2)

    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    1. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    6 Reviews
    32 Photos
    74 Saves
    Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    • No image available

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Prestonsburg

    6 Reviews of 2 Prestonsburg Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
      October 10, 2020

      Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

      Scary

      This place was trashy.  Cars came and went all night. People are living there.  There were people hunting something until 2 am with flashlights. (Guessing frogs) 

      Don’t go

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
      August 4, 2020

      Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

      Beautiful & Free, but Lots of Trash Around

      We simply love camping in the National Forest Service campgrounds, most often because they are isolated, beautiful, inexpensive and usually, very quiet. We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer. With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group. 

      There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites.  There were portable pit-toilets (bring your own TP, if you want to have some). There are no trash cans or dumpsters in the area, so plan accordingly. The main activity of folks in the campground seemed to be fishing, so I assume the fishing is good, or at least the trying is. But launching a kayak for an easy paddle about the lake couldn’t be easier from your site. 

      We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash. It’s discouraging to love these camping areas and find them in such a rough state after others use them. It’s a good reminder to come prepared to pick up after yourself and others who aren’t as thoughtful. We spent a good hour cleaning up the area, and filled one section of our truck bed with it when we left. Carry it in, folks, and then carry it out.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
      September 1, 2019

      Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

      Broke campers dream

      This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups. Most spots have boat in access! Will definitely be going back! Located in Morehead, KY.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
      August 26, 2019

      Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

      Beautiful place

      It is a beautiful campground.. just make sure you clean up after your selves so the next person doesn't have to clean your mess! If you leave food and garbage out you will attract Bears..  Always remember we are in their home so yes they will come for food! Just keep your area tidy and clean and take your trash with you when you leave..

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
      September 30, 2017

      Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

      Dispersed camping in Daniel Boone National Forest

      The National Forest has hiking, multi-use trails, and boating (there is a ramp nearby). This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment.

      Yay: Close to the river, on the less busy side of the forest. Drive along the road and decide which campsite to stay at. All free.

      Nay: Sadly, there was a lot of trash at all the sites. Not all sites have fire rings. There are only 7 sites so and no reservations so you may end up out of luck (but there are many other campgrounds in the area). Can be very muddy!

      Surprise: call or visit the ranger office before entering the forest to get the latest recommendations for good trails and where to see wildlife!



    Guide to Prestonsburg

    Camping near Prestonsburg, 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 explore.

    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. One visitor mentioned it’s "perfect for kayaking and fishing," with some campsites even having private beaches.
    • Caving: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can explore various caves. A reviewer highlighted the "abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground," making it a great spot for caving enthusiasts.

    What campers like:

    • Privacy: 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 Carter Caves State Resort Park have noted that the "staff cleans the bathhouse every hour," ensuring a pleasant experience.
    • Friendly Staff: Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground have praised the "very nice people" who manage the campground, making their stay more enjoyable.

    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."
    • Noise Levels: Campers at Middle Fork Campground have reported noise from nearby highways. One reviewer noted, "The biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill."
    • Site Size: Some sites can be small, especially at Middle Fork Campground. A camper mentioned, "Spaces are pretty tight," so it's good to check site dimensions before booking.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area. A family-friendly reviewer said, "Good level spots. Quiet the first week of April."
    • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. Campers at Carter Caves State Resort Park enjoyed hiking and caving, saying, "We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to."
    • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with clean facilities. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "The campground itself is nice, sites aren’t very level side to side or front to back."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Levels: RVers at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA noted that some sites are not quite level. One camper said, "They were generous with gravel so the drainage is good!"
    • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're staying at a campground near highways, like Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, be ready for some traffic noise. A reviewer mentioned, "There is car and truck noise all day long and all night too."
    • Utilize Amenities: Many campgrounds offer great amenities. Campers at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA appreciated the "family restrooms that are very nice and comfortable."

    Camping near Prestonsburg, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Prestonsburg, KY?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Prestonsburg, KY is Paragon Dispersed Camping Area with a 3.3-star rating from 6 reviews.