The Paintsville, Kentucky area encompasses a range of established campgrounds suited for both tent and RV camping. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground provides full hookup sites with level, large sites that can accommodate big rigs, while Wildcat Camping and Fishing offers electric hookups with level gravel sites. Several state parks populate the region within a 30-40 mile radius, including Jenny Wiley State Park, Yatesville Lake State Park, and Grayson Lake State Park, each providing developed campgrounds with various amenities. Most campgrounds in this eastern Kentucky region feature water and electric hookups, with several offering full sewer connections for RVs.
Reservations are highly recommended at most campgrounds in the area, particularly for RV sites with hookups. According to one visitor, "I tried for two years before I finally got a reservation. While we were camping, I checked again and it was all booked up all summer." The camping season for many state parks runs from April 1 to October 31, though some campgrounds like Paintsville Lake State Park remain open year-round. Cell service can be limited in parts of the region, with one reviewer noting "zero Verizon signal" at Paintsville Lake, though some campgrounds offer WiFi. Terrain varies throughout the area, with many campgrounds featuring level sites, though some locations like Grayson Lake State Park have sites with "serious inclines" that can challenge larger RVs.
Waterfront camping dominates the eastern Kentucky landscape, with lakes and rivers providing scenic backdrops for many campgrounds. Fishing access represents a major draw for campers in the region, with Paintsville Lake, Yatesville Lake, Grayson Lake, and Dewey Lake all offering opportunities for anglers. Mixed-use recreation areas combine camping with other activities like hiking, boating, and golfing. Many developed campgrounds feature amenities like clean bathhouses, laundry facilities, and playground areas. Most campgrounds maintain a family-friendly atmosphere with well-maintained grounds. A recent review described Paintsville Lake State Park as having "nice level, large sites with full hookups" that are "close to many local attractions in and around Paintsville." State parks typically offer more extensive facilities, while some smaller private campgrounds like Wildcat Camping and Fishing provide a more intimate experience.
$25 - $35 / night
"Close to many local attractions in and around Paintsville. Only drawback was lack of any Verizon signal. Understand that AT&T and TMobile had some service."
"We love fishing on Paintsville Lake! The boat dock is just above the playground and basketball/volleyball courts, plus there are plenty of places to fish on the bank. Gorgeous views."
$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."
$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."
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
$31 - $105 / 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."
$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."
$35 - $150 / 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."
ScoutThe spots are pretty close, but expected from what the map showed when we booked. While they are close there is enough room to make yourself at home. Nice new picnic tables and clean fire pits! It rained while we camped and there was some water pooling in areas.
RangerGreat campground close to the lake and golf course. Some unleveled sites but overall a good place. Some of the water hookup can be a bit far as well.
ScoutYou're parked with rigs on either side of you, but it's clean and friendly with kids playing. It is a neat spot on the river and easy inexpensive stop when traveling through. 50 amp hook up and water. Porta potties.
RangerStill probably our favorite state park.
RangerBeautiful campground, site can be a little small. We stayed in the C loop so we never used the bath house or anything. The camp hosts and staff were amazing and lots of help.
ScoutGreat host,, very clean.. Has showers ,, bost ramp, hiking,, etc... ONLY downfall about the place is SNAKES... Be on the lookout for copperheads and rattlesnakes !!!
GuideThe 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.
ScoutThis 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.
TravelerVery clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.
Eastern Kentucky camping spots near Paintsville offer riverside and mountain experiences at elevations ranging from 650 to 950 feet. Cell service in this region varies significantly by carrier and location, with many campgrounds reporting limited Verizon signals. The camping season generally extends from early April through October, with a few campgrounds remaining open year-round for those willing to brave winter conditions.
Kayaking access: Grayson Lake State Park has excellent flat-water kayaking opportunities, particularly around the scenic rock formations. "The Place to Kayak!! there's no more need be said. oh I guess I forgot, The place to Hike!" reports one visitor to Grayson Lake State Park.
Waterfall exploration: Falls Campground features a natural waterfall that doubles as a water slide during warmer months. A camper notes, "The waterfall is fun to slide down," making it a unique attraction for visitors to Falls Campground.
Wildlife watching: The region hosts diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and occasionally black bears. Eastern Kentucky parks require proper food storage, particularly at tent sites. "Bear Mace - A BIG CAN OF IT! Not only do you have the Black Bears to deal with, you have the Coyotes too!" advises a Jenny Wiley camper.
Spacious campsites: Yatesville Lake offers well-separated sites that provide more privacy than many state parks. "The campsites are a LONG distance from each other. You won't even hear your neighbors," writes a reviewer at Yatesville Lake State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the exceptional cleanliness of bathhouses, particularly at Paintsville Lake. "It's the cleanest I've ever seen! Laundry facilities are available," reports a recent visitor to Paintsville Lake State Park.
Halloween events: Several campgrounds organize special October festivities. "They also have a fantastic Halloween themed October. We love the experience each and every year!" shares an enthusiast at Falls Campground.
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for weekend stays during peak season. According to Wildcat Camping and Fishing, sites are particularly difficult to secure. "We have been here for a little over a month now. Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site," shares a camper at Wildcat Camping and Fishing.
Campsite terrain: Many sites throughout the region present leveling challenges, particularly for larger rigs. "Many of the spots don't have a great space for a tent. The flattest spots are in the middle of the circle," notes a camper at Grayson Lake.
Water quality concerns: Several lakes in the region have water quality issues that may impact swimming and fishing. "DON'T DRINK THE WATER FROM THIS LAKE... AND DON'T SWIM IN IT EITHER! FISH AT YOUR OWN RISK,,, CATCH & RELEASE!" warns a Jenny Wiley State Park visitor.
Kid-friendly environments: Multiple campgrounds design their spaces for families with children. "If you want a place for your kids to play and ride bikes, this is it. Campsites are a little close in some areas but when you are here, you are family!" notes a visitor to Falls Campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for children. "The sites run along the creek and beach area" making them ideal for families at Zilpo Campground, where one visitor reports, "It was fun and lots of things for the kids to do."
Cave exploration: Carter Caves State Park offers guided cave tours suitable for children. "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! Great for the kids!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Utility connections: Many campgrounds have unusual hookup configurations requiring extra equipment. "Campsites are set up where the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose," advises a camper at Jenny Wiley State Park.
Site selection strategy: Book early and research specific site conditions when possible. "Some sites are better than others of course. In my opinion the best sites are the boat in tent camping sites down the hill by the lake," reports a Koomer Ridge visitor.
Propane and supplies: Limited propane fill stations exist in the region, so arrive with full tanks. A Gas station near Paintsville Lake sells propane and firewood, located "2-3 mins up the road," according to one camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Paintsville Lake campground?
Paintsville Lake State Park Campground offers nice level, large sites with full hookups. The campground provides access to various local attractions in and around Paintsville. Regarding connectivity, there's typically no Verizon signal, though AT&T and T-Mobile may have some service. For those seeking alternative options with robust amenities, Wildcat Camping and Fishing features level gravel sites with grass surroundings, full hookups with 30/50A connections, WiFi, and can accommodate large rigs (40+ foot 5th wheels). They also offer recreational facilities including a paylake, shelter areas, playground, horseshoe pit, and a community gathering area.
Is there a map available for Paintsville Lake campground?
Yes, maps for Paintsville Lake campground are available through multiple channels. You can find official maps on the Kentucky State Parks website, at the park office upon arrival, or by calling the park directly to request one in advance. For comparison, other eastern Kentucky campgrounds like Yatesville Lake State Park Campground and Jenny Wiley State Park Campground also provide similar mapping resources. When making a reservation online, you'll typically have access to a campground layout showing the different sites, which helps with selecting your preferred location. Additionally, some mobile apps like The Dyrt offer user-generated maps and photos of the campground.
Where is Paintsville Lake State Park campground located?
Paintsville Lake State Park Campground is located in eastern Kentucky near the city of Paintsville. The area is known for its scenic beauty and proximity to various local attractions. For context of the broader region, Grayson Lake State Park Campground is approximately 10 miles from Grayson, Kentucky, also in the eastern part of the state. Both campgrounds are part of Kentucky's state park system that features numerous recreational opportunities throughout this scenic region, making it convenient for visitors exploring eastern Kentucky.
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