Best Campgrounds near Staffordsville, KY

Eastern Kentucky camping around Staffordsville centers on several state parks and recreation areas along scenic lakes and forested hills. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground offers full-hookup sites for RVs and walk-in tent camping areas near the water, while Jenny Wiley State Park provides cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options. The Daniel Boone National Forest extends through the region with additional developed campgrounds. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with select locations offering cabin rentals and glamping experiences.

Reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, particularly during the peak season from April through October. Many state park campgrounds in the area close completely during winter months, with Paintsville Lake State Park being a notable exception that remains open year-round. "The campground seems maintained fairly well. No wifi and Verizon is touchy. Out in the recreation area I had one bar and LTE though the data seemed pretty good," noted one camper about Paintsville Lake. Access roads are generally well-maintained, but some campgrounds have limited pull-through sites and narrower roads that may challenge larger RVs. Flash flooding can occur in low-lying areas during heavy rains, particularly in spring.

Lakefront camping represents the primary draw in the Staffordsville region, with several campgrounds providing direct water access. Many campsites at Paintsville Lake offer lake views, with reviewers specifically mentioning site 18 as having excellent vistas. Full hookups at reasonable rates attract longer-term visitors, especially at privately operated campgrounds like Wildcat Camping and Fishing. Bathroom facilities and amenities vary significantly between locations - Paintsville Lake receives consistent praise for cleanliness, while some reviewers report maintenance concerns at Jenny Wiley State Park. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, with one reviewer noting that raccoons frequently visit campsites, making proper food storage essential. The proximity to fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities enhances the camping experience for most visitors.

Best Camping Sites Near Staffordsville, Kentucky (87)

    1. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    2 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."

    2. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auxier, KY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 889-1790

    $30 - $35 / night

    "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
    8 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
    14 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

    20 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    28 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."

    7. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    40 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."

    8. 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."

    9. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    40 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."

    10. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    43 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    41 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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 87 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Staffordsville, KY

611 Reviews of 87 Staffordsville Campgrounds


  • s
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Relode BaseCamp

    Perfect small campground

    Bathhouse is immaculate! Super clean facilities! Also laundry available for a small fee, picnic pavilion for all guest with starlink internet FREE! Cheap and affordable place great for families or just a trip for 1! Pet friendly, and beautiful pond! Quiet, off the beaten path, affordable!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Equestrian Campground — Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Under Construction

    The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done. Bathhouse is clean and up to date. The roads are narrow and windy.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    The Landing Strip Campground

    The Landing Strip Campground and Venue

    This campground is built on an old air strip and it is excellent for overnight or longer stays.  They have venues and rallies there throughout the year.  We found it by accident and have been using it coming and going to AZ every year since.  The owners are great and wifi is good with full hookup with 30 and 50 amp service.  So far there isn't a store or shower facilities that we could see, but it is still a great place to stay if you are traveling on Route 40 and need a rest stop.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Great campground

    Very clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.

  • Carol J.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    Great spot for nature lovers

    This is a very well maintained park, with many hiking and overlook opportunities.  White tail deer are frequent, and very tame.  Bathrooms are clean and well maintained.  Lots of hot water and water pressure in the showers.  There is a pool and waterpark on site, and a gift shop and camp store.  Was disappointed that the Visitor Center was only open on the weekend (and it was still prior to Labor Day).  Staff was helpful and friendly, although there was no camp host on site on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday nights.

  • 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.

  • Lisa Horton
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    We took off for 4 days and decided to go to the Breaks and fish, camp out, and just enjoy our time with one another.

    It was a very nice camping spot and it also had a grill that we used to cook out. They also have a restaurant in the park that has some of the best food I have ever ate.

  • 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.


Guide to Staffordsville

Camping options near Staffordsville, Kentucky cluster along several waterways at elevations between 600-900 feet in the eastern foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences seasonal flash flooding during spring rains with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F and high humidity. Winter camping availability remains limited to a few year-round facilities, with most campgrounds closing completely from November through March.

What to do

Kayaking at Grayson Lake: The lake features unique rock formations and waterfalls accessible only by water. "Kayaking spots on Grayson Lake... Going to 'The Grotto' aka Clifty Falls is a must (4.5 mile round trip). The same boat ramp has a decent place to get in and swim," notes one visitor to Grayson Lake State Park Campground.

Boat-in tent camping: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites accessible only by water. At Yatesville Lake State Park Campground, "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. All sites throughout have fine gravel pad, picnic table, a fire ring and access to numerous bathrooms."

Natural bridge hiking: The area features multiple natural stone bridges and arches. "The park is amazing and I have no idea how it took me 39yrs to find it so close to home. The caves are absolutely amazing and the park has some of the best natural bridges I have ever seen," reports a camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park.

Backcountry permits: Several parks offer permits for backcountry camping with specific requirements. One camper at Jenny Wiley State Park notes: "Make sure to get a permit for Horn Hollow on a day of no rain or else you will not be able to enter it."

What campers like

Secluded lakefront sites: Many campers prefer water-accessible sites away from crowded areas. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, "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."

Well-spaced sites: Campgrounds with ample space between sites receive consistently positive reviews. A camper at Zilpo Campground noted: "Great campground with a lot of privacy!" Another mentioned: "Campground is 'ok' if you just are camping, and not expecting much else to do."

Year-round camping options: While most campgrounds close seasonally, a few remain open all year. Wildcat Camping and Fishing offers year-round accommodations with "Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels."

Fishing opportunities: Many campers specifically visit for fishing. "If you like catfishing, this is your Lake," notes one visitor to Jenny Wiley State Park about Dewey Lake, while another warns: "The water is muddy a lot."

What you should know

Campsite terrain variations: Many campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. At Grayson Lake State Park Campground, "Bring all the leveling blocks you own because very few sites are level and most are very sloped. Also bring a very long hose/ hose extensions as the sites are well-spaced with water between them."

Limited cell service: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception," reports a camper at Jenny Wiley State Park.

Wet conditions: Rain drainage varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. At Falls Campground, a camper noted the comfortable conditions, stating "The people that work here are so very nice. I love the relaxed chill atmosphere, I stay in a certain place everytime with a great view of the waterfall right out my tent door."

Water conditions: Lake water quality varies considerably. One camper reported: "We did reserve a small boat and went swimming off of it but do regret it after a UTI and seeing all the trash and debris in the lake. I've never seen so much garbage in a lake in my life."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better recreational facilities for children. Falls Campground receives praise as "Very family friendly. Clean. Fantastic staff. Every time we think of trying a new place, we go back here instead. They also have a fantastic Halloween themed October."

Private campground advantages: Commercially operated campgrounds often have fewer regulations. One camper noted: "We avoid many state parks due to the amount of rules and being stacked right on top of others. Once we discovered Falls, we only camp here. Kids can be seen from all spots, all over the campground."

Wildlife precautions: Wildlife encounters require appropriate preparation. A long-time visitor to the area warns: "DON'T DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... BEAR MACE - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!"

Seasonal programming: Some campgrounds offer special activities during peak seasons. One camper at Twin Knobs notes "The site is good but remember to bring sleeping pad due to you only for site for tent," indicating the rocky terrain requires additional padding.

Tips from RVers

Hookup locations: Water and electrical connections at some campgrounds require planning. At Carter Caves State Park Campground, "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."

Limited pull-through options: Most campgrounds have back-in sites with varied accessibility. "Full hookups at Wildcat Camping and Fishing could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels," according to a recent visitor.

Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump facilities. One camper warned: "Dump station overflowed and closed," demonstrating that facilities can sometimes be compromised.

Seasonal road conditions: Weather impacts campground access considerably. A camper reported: "It didn't help that there was also 5"-8"+/- rain over the 3 days. In 8 years never experience such a mess," highlighting the impact of weather on camping conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Staffordsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Staffordsville, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Staffordsville, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Staffordsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Staffordsville, KY is Paintsville Lake State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 14 reviews.

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

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

What parks are near Staffordsville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Staffordsville, KY that allow camping, notably Dewey Lake and Grayson Lake.