Top Free Dispersed Camping near Salt Lick, KY
Looking for the best Salt Lick dispersed camping? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Salt Lick, KY (1)
1. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky6 Reviews•32 Photos•73 SavesParagon 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
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Salt Lick
6 Reviews of 1 Salt Lick Campgrounds
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
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.
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.
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..
Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
Not always accessible
June 2019 was not able to access the campsite due to a gate blocking the road.
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 Salt Lick
Camping near Salt Lick, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the peaceful waters of Cave Run Lake. One visitor at Zilpo Campground mentioned, "This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches."
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Koomer Ridge Campground. A reviewer said, "There are several trails that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning."
- Caving and Nature Walks: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can hike and explore various caves. One camper noted, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds."
What campers like:
- Privacy and Space: Campers at Zilpo Campground appreciate the privacy of the sites. A reviewer shared, "Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive."
- Clean Facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Koomer Ridge Campground said, "The campground is very well maintained."
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park remarked, "The staff are all very friendly."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not have electric hookups. A camper noted, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult."
- Noise Levels: Be prepared for potential noise from nearby roads. A reviewer at Middle Fork Campground mentioned, "Biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill on the highway."
- Site Sizes Vary: Some sites can be tight, especially at Whittleton Campground. One camper said, "Very tight spots."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area. A visitor mentioned, "Great campground! Large sites!"
- Activities for Kids: Many campgrounds have playgrounds or water activities. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park noted, "There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten."
- Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds have quiet hours. A reviewer at Grayson Lake State Park said, "The positive is the location is only a few minutes from the boat ramp for the most popular kayaking spot."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the level of the sites. A visitor at Koomer Ridge Campground mentioned, "A lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV."
- Bring Extra Cords: Some campgrounds have hookups far from the sites. A camper at Grayson Lake State Park advised, "Be prepared to bring extra electric cord and hose."
- Look for Amenities: Campgrounds like Lago Linda Hideaway offer modern cabins and facilities. A reviewer said, "Very nice cabin, awesome view. Modern updated cabin."
Camping near Salt Lick, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to find the best fit for your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Salt Lick, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Salt Lick, KY is Paragon Dispersed Camping Area with a 3.3-star rating from 6 reviews.