The Staffordsville area sits at approximately 650 feet elevation with surrounding hills rising to 1,200 feet. Cave systems dot the eastern Kentucky landscape where summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity from June through August. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, while spring brings frequent rainfall that affects trail conditions throughout the region.
What to Do
Kayaking on calm waters: At Paintsville Lake State Park Campground, paddlers find accessible water entry points. "The lake is really calm. There are boats coming in and out but not 'traffic' per se, no issues at all kayaking and we went out several times," notes Kelley K., who recommends water shoes due to fishing hooks occasionally found in the water.
Explore underground systems: Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground offers guided cave tours approximately 45 minutes from Staffordsville. "There are tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something!" advises Chris B.
Fishing for multiple species: Local lakes support diverse fish populations. "Fishing was good with rooster tails and panther martin spinners (silver), 1/8 and 1/16 oz. The water was down so there were a lot of places to paddle onto the shore and wade fish," explains a Paintsville Lake camper who caught several species during their stay.
What Campers Like
Spacious RV sites: Yatesville Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "As far as camping goes there's a little variety. On top of the hill there is camper sites with full hook ups which is actually quite spacious and spaced out from other sites compared to other campgrounds," writes Chris M., highlighting the campground's thoughtful design.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor reviews. "This is one of the cleanest campgrounds I've ever been to! The bathrooms were immaculate and the grass green and trimmed!" reports Taylor W. about Grayson Lake State Park Campground, located approximately 30 minutes northwest of Staffordsville.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful settings. "This campground is just as I'd hoped--small, clean, and peaceful. The sites are spacious and level. The surrounding hills and lake are gorgeous," writes Kim H. about her experience at Paintsville Lake, noting that quiet hours were observed during her stay.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. "You get no cell service in the campgrounds and no reception," warns a reviewer at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground. Download maps and information before arrival, particularly if coordinating with others or needing emergency contacts.
Water hookup placement: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. "Campsites are set up where the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose," advises Frances F. about Jenny Wiley. Similar situations exist at several dog friendly campgrounds near Staffordsville.
Seasonal accessibility: Many sites close partially during winter. "This time of year (October) this campground is walk up only," reports a visitor to Twin Knobs Recreation Area, one of several campgrounds with modified operations between November and March.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for playgrounds and courts: Falls Campground caters to families with dedicated play areas. "We avoid many state parks due to the amount of rules and being stacked right on top of others. Kids can be seen from all spots, all over the campground. Very family friendly," writes Vanessa D., highlighting the relaxed atmosphere.
Consider the swimming options: Water access varies significantly between sites. "There is a nice dock area if you have a boat otherwise there isn't a whole lot to do," notes Sara S. about Paintsville Lake, whereas Falls Campground offers "a waterfall to slide down" according to other visitors.
Book early for holidays: Pet-friendly campsites fill quickly during peak periods. "We tried for two years before I finally got a reservation. While we were camping (last weekend in March), I checked again and it was all booked up all summer," warns Tiffany T., emphasizing the need for advance planning.
Tips from RVers
Bring leveling equipment: Twin Knobs Recreation Area and similar hillside campgrounds require preparation. "Bring all the leveling blocks you own because very few sites are level and most are very sloped," advises Sarah about nearby Grayson Lake State Park, a common situation throughout the region's dog-friendly campgrounds.
Pack extension cords and hoses: Utility hookups often require additional equipment. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites," notes Ron & Bonnie D. about Carter Caves State Park. Several reviewers mention similar requirements at Paintsville Lake and Yatesville Lake campgrounds.
Plan for variable weather: Eastern Kentucky experiences rapid weather changes. "Our campsite drained the rain off really well," notes Karen P. about Twin Knobs, where she experienced five consecutive rainy days during a June trip, highlighting the importance of selecting well-drained sites when possible.
