Best Campgrounds near Sandy Hook, KY

Sandy Hook is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Sandy Hook, Kentucky (108)

    1. Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 474-9727

    $30 / night

    "Grayson Lake State Park- East Kentucky. So, we had reservations for Carter Caves, but they canceled on me due to redoing the campground."

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

    2. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    20 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."

    3. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

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

    $20 - $120 / night

    "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."

    4. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / night

    "Stayed here for one night on a road trip to the Great Lakes. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere but nestled nicely on a lake with pretty water and nice scenery."

    "It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it."

    5. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 784-6428

    "With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group. "

    "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."

    6. Bruin Creek

    2 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    "We were fishing Grayson Lake mostly and staying here. Pros: FREE, super simple, golf nearby, nice lake/creek to explore by boat."

    7. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 297-8488

    $25 - $35 / night

    "We tent camped at one of the hike-in (it's a well maintained gravel path) sites at PLSP, #33. This is the first site on your way in."

    "Very clean campground, the marina is great and easy access to the lake. We kayak and it was great being that close to the lake and the campsites have plenty of room."

    8. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    24 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."

    9. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    35 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)."

    10. Ashland Huntington West KOA

    17 Reviews
    Grayson, KY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 929-5504

    "Didn't appreciate the grill in the next site (thought it was too close to us). We were in Site #8. Not sure what all is around here."

    "We stayed on the upper end by the veterans cemetery, even though it's close to the pool and playground, it was pretty quiet. Sites were a bit unlevel, but easy to back into."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 108 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Sandy Hook, KY

679 Reviews of 108 Sandy Hook Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice spots on the Ohio River

    We had a riverfront site. The camp hosts are very nice and attentive to your needs. We will return

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Great site, not a lot to do.

    Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway.

  • Jay T.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    Attractive campground with variety of sites and amenities

    Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites.   Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path.  We stayed in 12.  If you don't mind hauling your gear a short distance from your car, sites like this are perfect as they're  for tent campers only.  The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights.  The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient.  All the Shawnee State Park staff I met were super friendly and helpful.

  • Adriyel P.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Ashland Huntington West KOA

    Good Basic KOA

    Plenty of spots, including pull thrus. More affordable than some of the nearby state “resort” parks, though without much in the way of shade or scenery. Staff is very kind, helpful, and understanding. Perfect for an overnight.

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Nice campground

    Been going to Greenbo since I was a kid in the 70s.  Facilities are well maintained and clean. The campground has been recently paved. Plenty of full service sites with sewer, but lots of other shady sites without sewer. Was there July 13-16, 2025 -- VERY HOT. Staff are friendly and just excellent. The operating hours of marina and other activities are out of date/wrong on the parks.ky.gov web site, just call the park for hours.

    Oh, if you want firewood, the campground office is at the marina. Go there, pay for the firewood, and it will be delivered to your site while you go enjoy the park.

    Mini golf is in good shape, get clubs and balls at marina. Be prepared, the course is hard, but in a fun way.

    Very bike friendly.

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Shawnee State Park-Ohio River Campground

    Very Peaceful, Very Clean

    We stayed in Site 09. The sites are spacious with level, asphalted pads. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table.

    Toward the front of the campground is a great splash pad, playground, and dog park, which includes an agility course. These are located away from the RV's; therefore, the campground was very quiet and peaceful.

    Nearby was a marina, fishing access, and an archery range. The surrounding hills are pretty.

    The bath house was clean. A laundry room was available.

    The only drawback was the lack of shade. Because this place is relatively new, in time--as the planted seedlings grow--this problem will lessen.

  • Bob B.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Oak Hill Campground

    One-Night Adventure: Our Shakedown Trip in the New Travel Trailer

    Campsite Review for Site 6 – Gateway to Wayne National Forest

    Our recent camping trip at this campground was an excellent way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Wayne National Forest. The serene forest setting provided a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor adventure, with the campground offering all the basics needed for a comfortable stay.

    We stayed at Site 6 in our travel trailer, enjoying the ease of a pull-through site. Although the water and electric hookups are on the opposite side unless you drive through the loop the wrong way, this setup has an unexpected benefit—it faces directly toward the woods. This orientation allowed us to savor the tranquility of the forest, adding a layer of privacy and a more intimate connection with nature.

    While the sites are decently sized, they are closely positioned with minimal separation, which might limit privacy in other areas. However, the majestic surroundings of Wayne National Forest more than make up for this. The proximity to hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and the peaceful ambiance of the trees create an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.

    All in all, this campground is a fantastic base for exploring Wayne National Forest. The combination of basic amenities, convenient access, and the enchanting forest environment makes it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

  • S
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Beautiful Campground

    We spent about five months there this past winter. The campground is beautiful and the owners are amazing. The bathrooms and laundry room are very clean. The surrounding area seeps in history and we enjoyed exploring the area.

    The owners, Julie and Darcy, are very friendly, kind and helpful people.

    Don’t forget to say hello to Lulu and Tater.

  • Paul K.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Fantastic.

    We stayed in one of the "premium" sites, right on the water F19. The view was incredible. The campground was quiet and the facilities clean. Perfect spot.


Guide to Sandy Hook

Camping near Sandy Hook, 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 several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails in the area. Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground rave about the "great hiking trails leaving directly from the campground." The scenic views make it a favorite spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: At Zilpo Campground, visitors enjoy "perfect conditions for kayaking and fishing." Some campsites even have private beaches, making it a great place to relax by the water.
  • Caving: Carter Caves State Resort Park offers unique cave exploration opportunities. Campers appreciate the "abundance of natural resources" and the chance to hike through various caves.

What campers like

  • Privacy: Many campers enjoy the "more privacy and primitive sites" at Zilpo Campground. This campground is less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Carter Caves State Resort Park mention that "staff cleans the bathhouse every hour," ensuring a pleasant experience.
  • Friendly Staff: Visitors at Sandy Springs Campground appreciate the "hospitable" owners who make everyone feel like family. This welcoming vibe adds to the overall camping experience.

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: Campers at Middle Fork Campground have noted that "traffic noise" can be an issue due to its proximity to a highway. If you're sensitive to noise, consider this when choosing your site.
  • Site Size: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, have "slanted sites" that may not be ideal for RVs. It's best to check site conditions before booking.
  • Limited Amenities: Campers at Red River Gorge Campground should be aware that while the campground is clean and scenic, "cell service is very spotty," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds, like Carter Caves State Resort Park, offer "great facilities, hiking, and caving," making it a fun spot for families with kids.
  • Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, such as Twin Knobs Recreation Area. Campers have mentioned that "the sites are spacious," allowing for more room for kids to play.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campers have noted that noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds. Be sure to respect quiet hours to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Before booking, confirm the availability of electric and water hookups. Campers at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA appreciated the "great electric and water" facilities.
  • Watch for Site Conditions: Some RVers have found that sites can be "damp and muddy," especially in winter. It's wise to check recent reviews for current conditions.
  • Be Cautious of Entrance: When arriving at campgrounds like Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, be careful of the entrance, as it can be a "sharp right-hand turn with a dip." Take it slow to avoid any mishaps.

Camping near Sandy Hook, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it's a great spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Sandy Hook, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Sandy Hook, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 108 campgrounds and RV parks near Sandy Hook, KY and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Sandy Hook, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sandy Hook, KY is Grayson Lake State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sandy Hook, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Sandy Hook, KY.

What parks are near Sandy Hook, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 parks near Sandy Hook, KY that allow camping, notably Grayson Lake and Daniel Boone National Forest.