Dispersed camping near Strunk, Kentucky offers free sites on National Forest lands within Daniel Boone National Forest. Most sites sit at elevations between 900-1200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between seasons. During summer months, nighttime temperatures typically drop to the mid-60s while winter camping requires preparation for potential freezing conditions in the valleys where most sites are located.
What to do
**Creek exploration: Jellico Creek provides swimming opportunities in warmer months. A camper at Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 noted, "This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing."
**Wildlife observation: The area's limited development creates habitat for diverse wildlife. At Swain Ridge, one visitor reported, "We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night. There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!"
**Fishing access: Multiple sites provide water access for fishing. The Redbird Boat Ramp is primarily "a boat ramp" according to visitors, making it suitable for launching small watercraft for fishing.
What campers like
**Secluded atmosphere: Most sites receive minimal traffic, especially midweek. One camper at Bi-Color Campground reported, "Only saw one other camper on our trip this weekend so it was very peaceful."
**Spacious campsites: Unlike developed campgrounds, dispersed sites often provide more room between neighbors. A Bi-Color visitor mentioned, "The spots are pretty spacious but there's no privacy."
**Natural features: Camping beside water features ranks high among visitor preferences. At Trace Branch Dispersed, campers appreciate the creek access: "We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening."
What you should know
**Ground conditions: Prepare for potentially muddy terrain, especially after rain. Nicholas at Bi-Color Campground advises, "Only word of caution is that the ground can get a bit muddy, so try to find something dry."
**Hunting seasons: Be aware of hunting activity during season. One visitor observed, "Rifle season starts Nov 20. I'm 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here."
**Security considerations: Despite remote locations, most sites are relatively safe. A winter camper at Trace Branch noted, "We left our site unattended for hours to check out the streams and rivers and nothing was missing."
Tips for camping with families
**Insect protection: Prepare for ticks in warmer months. Sierra at Swain Ridge warns, "But we did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there."
**Entertainment options: Without amenities, bring activities. Robert W. at Bi-Color Campground shares, "My dog and I stayed for 2 nights and 2 days. Lots of wildlife sounds at night. Also a random heard of cattle strols through every now and again."
**Site selection strategy: For families, first sites off main roads often provide easier access. At Jellico Creek, Pam B. recommends, "We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups."
Tips from RVers
**Road conditions: Access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. Michael W. cautions about Bi-Color Campground: "Dirt rd I, washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow. My opinion not for 5th wheel."
**Ground stability: Winter camping with RVs requires additional consideration. Matthew H. at Trace Branch reports, "You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground."
**Site availability: Some designated areas can accommodate larger vehicles. Nicholas notes Bi-Color "is perfect for the fam as it can accommodate RV sized vehicles."
