Stearns, Kentucky sits at an elevation of 1,376 feet in the rugged Cumberland Plateau region, with camping areas typically experiencing 10-15°F cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The region receives approximately 52 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forested camping environments throughout the Daniel Boone National Forest and Big South Fork National River areas. Most campgrounds operate year-round with peak season running April through October.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Kentucky Alum Ford (Blue Heron Campground) offers excellent access to fishing spots. "We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campsites have a picnic table and a firepit. Our campsite was very nice and private with a big grassy area," notes Katrin M., who appreciates the proximity to water features.
Trail exploration: Great Meadows Campground provides access to numerous hiking trails within Daniel Boone National Forest. "Take a quiet peaceful walk down the back trail to Laurel River Dam," suggests Carl J., highlighting one of the lesser-known pathways near the campground.
Historical sites: The area contains significant coal mining heritage sites open for exploration. "Access to a small mining village" is available from several campgrounds according to Katrin M., offering opportunities to learn about the region's industrial past while camping.
Water recreation: Laurel Lake Camping Resort features multiple water activities beyond standard swimming. "They have a pond for fishing and another pond for swimming with nice Sandy beach. They also put out bouncy houses for the kids at no extra cost," explains John P., detailing the water-based amenities.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Blue Heron Campground at Big South Fork offers well-spaced camping areas. "The trees are mature so there is plenty of shade and lofty space between each lot. We are on a paved site surrounded by gravel picnic table light post and fire ring also with a food storage bin to keep out the bears," reports Rebecca J.
Clean facilities: General Burnside State Park maintains exceptional standards. "The bathhouse was nice and clean. My site, 14 was smaller than most, but right across from the bathhouse. State Employees kept it meticulously clean and did so each morning around 8am," explains Paul B., who stayed there specifically to access the golf course.
Variety of accommodation options: The region offers diverse camping experiences for different preferences. "Tent sites are along a stream on Racoon side," reports TNWoodsman about Great Meadows Campground, where wildlife encounters are common: "Got surprised by a bear while gathering firewood nearby."
Golf access: For campers seeking recreation beyond hiking and water activities, certain campgrounds provide unique options. "I stayed here because I wanted to play the on site golf course, which was also well taken care of," mentions Paul B. about General Burnside State Park, which combines outdoor recreation with camping.
What You Should Know
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell service and internet access. "No cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway," notes Aaron R. about Great Meadows Campground, a common situation throughout the region.
Water pressure variations: Utilities can vary between campgrounds. "Good 50 amp power supply but water pressure is very poor in the camper," reports Bryan Y. about Falls Creek Cabins & Campground, highlighting infrastructure limitations typical in rural settings.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "We are on a paved site surrounded by gravel picnic table light post and fire ring also with a food storage bin to keep out the bears," mentions Rebecca J., emphasizing the importance of using provided bear-resistant storage.
Distance to supplies: Most camping areas require planning ahead. "The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part," explains Aaron R., while another camper notes, "It is about a 20 minute drive to a local store or a save a lot when we forgot some groceries."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water features for kids: Waitsboro Campground offers family-friendly waterfront access. "This campground is built between a steep hillside and the Cumberland River. Most sites don't offer much privacy, but the views of the river are so nice," explains Laura E., noting that most sites include electric and water hookups.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "Movies on the lawn, dance parties, bands on Holiday weekend while we were there," reports John P. about Laurel Lake Camping Resort, which also features "bouncy houses for the kids at no extra cost."
Playground facilities: Corbin-Laurel Lake KOA provides additional recreation options. "We thoroughly enjoyed our two night stay. The staff were so friendly and helpful. Very quiet and allowed us to enjoy nature. We loved pool as well!" shares Barbara C., highlighting amenities particularly appreciated by families.
Safety considerations: Pay attention to terrain when selecting sites with children. "This campground is built between a steep hillside and the Cumberland River," notes Laura E. about Waitsboro Campground, cautioning that topography may present challenges for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: General Burnside Island State Park presents some terrain issues. "The site I was in was on such a steep hill I left early because I was afraid I would break my leg getting in and out if my camper," warns Candy H., highlighting the importance of checking site descriptions before booking.
Maneuverability concerns: Some campgrounds advertise big rig access but have limitations. "Says Big Rig friendly, not so much. Low branches and very tight turns," advises Bill B. about Laurel Lake Camping Resort, though he notes "Some spaces were long."
Utility placement: Consider hookup locations when selecting sites. "Utilities placed conveniently close to rv pads," notes Travis S. about General Burnside State Park, which offers well-designed RV sites despite some terrain challenges.
Dump station positioning: Layout affects departure convenience. "The dump station would have been convenient if we were dumping on the way in, but not placed well for dumping upon departure," explains Jessica L., emphasizing the importance of checking campground maps before arrival.
