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Best Campgrounds near Whitesburg, KY

225 Reviews

Campgrounds in the Whitesburg, Kentucky area range from established state parks to primitive sites, with several options within a 30-mile radius. Kingdom Come State Park Campground offers tent camping with only 7 sites, each featuring fire rings and picnic tables, while Carr Creek State Park Campground provides both tent and RV camping with electric hookups and water. The eastern Kentucky mountain terrain creates a scenic backdrop for camping experiences, with several campgrounds situated near lakes and waterways for fishing and boating opportunities.

Road conditions and seasonal availability vary significantly throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly at popular locations like Kingdom Come State Park. "Kingdom Come State Park is a little jewel in southeastern Kentucky! There are 6 tent sites, each with a gravel drive, mulch tent pad big enough for two smallish tents, fire ring, and picnic table," noted one camper. Visitors should be prepared for mountain driving conditions when accessing some campgrounds, as several are located on winding roads with steep grades. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, and campers should check water availability as some locations have restrictions.

Campers consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty as highlights of the region. Several visitors appreciate the free firewood provided at Kingdom Come State Park, with one review stating, "Everyday a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping." Wildlife viewing opportunities include black bears, with proper food storage being essential at most campgrounds. Fishing is popular at locations like Carr Creek State Park and Fishpond Lake, though water quality varies. Tent campers will find dedicated tent pads at most developed campgrounds, while RV campers have several options with hookups, particularly at Littcarr Campground and Portal 31 RV Park. The region's campgrounds generally provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets, with some offering shower facilities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Whitesburg, Kentucky (58)

    1. Carr Creek State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Carr Creek Lake, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 642-4050

    $33 / night

    "Small beach area, clear water for swimming, but have quite a few steps to walk down to the lake. Playground equipment was taken down, only had a couple of swings."

    "The beach is nice but a lot of steps to get down to it. Overall the campground is clean and staff is extremely helpful. The bathhouses are a bit run down and updated or something."

    2. Kingdom Come State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Cumberland, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 589-4138

    $14 / night

    "Kingdom Come State Park is a little jewel in southeastern Kentucky!"

    "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout. Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites."

    3. Littcarr Campground

    5 Reviews
    Vicco, KY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 642-3052

    $24 - $30 / night

    "Very clean facilities, friendly hosts, and a wonderful location on the lake. Site #25 is our favorite, though it could be more level, but the privacy, size, and shade are perfect for us."

    "The canal at the park leads you to Carr Lake."

    4. Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground

    8 Reviews
    Big Stone Gap, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 523-0055

    "We visited the local museums and walked the green belt. The green belt is next to the camp ground within walking distance. We will be back!"

    "Quaint park tucked away in the hills of VA in Big Stone Gap next to South Fork Powell River. Although our site is right on top of our neighbor, that is NOT the norm."

    5. Cane Patch Campground

    1 Review
    Pound, VA
    8 miles
    Website

    6. Flag Rock Recreation Area Campground

    4 Reviews
    Norton, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 679-0754

    $20 / night

    "Continuing on there is a short walk to a lovely overlook. There are very nice picnic shelters. 

    Our only complaint was the place had a number of lampoles with lights that were on all night."

    "Great campground with biking/hiking trails and mountain scenic overlook. Clean bathhouses, picnic tables, fire rings, charcoal grills, and electricity provided. Quiet with great views."

    7. Portal 31 RV Park

    1 Review
    Lynch, KY
    12 miles
    +1 (606) 848-1530

    "This small park is located across the street from an exhibition coal mine, portal 31. It is in the former train depots former switch yard. Small, with electric hookups and a communal water spout."

    8. Natural Tunnel State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Duffield, VA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 940-2674

    "However, the temperatures were in the lower 90s outside, and once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven. The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside."

    "Site 10 is a great site with plenty of distance between adjacent sites and a huge yard area, probably the best site in the two loops (Lover's Leap& Cove View)."

    9. Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Breaks, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 865-4413

    $20 - $38 / night

    "It was surrounded by a lot of trees, so it had shade. It was a short walk to the bathhouse which was very clean with nice showers. 

    The campground has 4 different loops."

    "A wonderful getaway when you want to be away from it all. Several campground sections to choose from with primitive sites to full hookup with electric, water, and sewer."

    10. Fishpond Lake

    Be the first to review!
    Pound, KY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 634-1814

    $5 - $25 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Whitesburg, KY

45 Photos of 58 Whitesburg Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Whitesburg, KY

225 Reviews of 58 Whitesburg Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Clinch River Family Campground

    Be prepared for 7 mile drive from main road

    We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). Both of these are worth doing if you are in the area. We chose to only hike to Devils bathtub (about 2 miles one way). It was exceptional but difficult.

    Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, its wide enough but slow going. You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road.

    Campground is well maintained, lots of playground equipment for kids and a launch for tubes/kayaks. At main road there is a public launch if you want to put in there and then float to campground.

    No laundry. Bathhouse is just ok, dated but functional.

    Owners are nice, and communicate quickly by email or phone. We had issue with the site we reserved and just moved over one site when setting up late and in the rain…told owner next day and it was no problem.

  • Zoey T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2025

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Private location - challanging hills

    The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites… pretty and quiet. Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it. There also are a few peculiar (methy) characters that come in and out of the parking lot at night. Outside of that pretty quiet cool fern filled Forrest and lake.

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    My Eastern KY Fav!

    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.

    The campground has many full hookup sites. I checked out the bath house: it's the cleanest I've ever seen! Laundry facilities are available. There is a playground for children.

    Lots of boating and fishing occurred.

    Both the staff and the other campers were friendly and considerate. Quiet hours were observed.

    We've already made reservations for next season!

  • Polly J.
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Carr Creek State Park Campground

    Disgusting

    Bbathrooms are disgusting.  Half don't work and handicap doesn't have lock. Only 1 shower worked. Water leaking from toilet and sink. The beach wasn't open so it couldn't have been beach water. It's been like this for 5 years.  They don't seem to care.

  • papa G.
    May. 24, 2025

    Clinch River Family Campground

    Spectacular

    What a great experience for the whole family and kids and enjoyed the privacy water was a little cold this time of year but I had a great fire next to the river Under the Stars roasting s'mores

  • paul C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    Hiker's dream

    Wonderful park for pretty much everything from zip line to water park, and to some of the most gorgeous trails in the region. The campground was extremely clean including bathrooms and showers that are immaculate. There are tons of sites to accommodate pretty much any rig. Nice camp store with firewood and propane refill. Most site are full hookup, but not all.

  • Kathleen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2025

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Popular location

    Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation. Has the portable restroom and plenty of firewood.

Guide to Whitesburg

Camping near Whitesburg, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Natural Tunnel State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails out of and around the campground are worth the hikes," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground. A camper shared, "We love fishing on Paintsville Lake! The boat dock is just above the playground," highlighting the lake's accessibility.
  • Wildlife Watching: Visit Breaks Interstate Park Campground for a chance to see local wildlife. One visitor noted, "Wildlife is not fearful of us, or the dogs," which makes for a unique experience.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground. A reviewer said, "The bathrooms are the cleanest I've ever seen," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere at Baileyton KOA Holiday is a highlight. One camper mentioned, "The camp hosts were very kind and friendly," making it feel like home.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Carr Creek State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Good size sites, especially the outer part of the loop," which is great for families or groups.

What you should know

  • Site Conditions: Some sites may not be level. A camper at Wilderness Road State Park Campground noted, "Most aren’t level, and some are in clear disrepair," so check site details before booking.
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Only Verizon signal was touchy," which might be a downside for those needing connectivity.
  • Seasonal Amenities: Some campgrounds have seasonal hours for amenities. A visitor at Breaks Interstate Park Campground mentioned, "The chairlift is only open on weekends," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. Carr Creek State Park Campground has a beach that families enjoy, as one reviewer said, "Love that the beach wasn’t far from our site."
  • Group Sites: Choose campgrounds that offer spacious sites for family gatherings. A camper at Baileyton KOA Holiday noted, "The park has been expanded or reworked recently," which could mean more options for larger groups.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get noisy on weekends. A visitor at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground mentioned, "Unfortunately our neighbors were very noisy!!!" so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify the availability of electric and water hookups. A camper at Natural Tunnel State Park Campground mentioned, "The water pressure was 60+," which is good to know for RVers.
  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites to avoid hassle. A reviewer at Wilderness Road State Park Campground noted, "Ours was tough to level," which can be a challenge for RV setups.
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a dump station available. A camper at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground appreciated the "nice dump station," making it easier for RV travelers.

Camping near Whitesburg, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning and the right campground, you're sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Whitesburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Whitesburg, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 58 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitesburg, KY and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Whitesburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitesburg, KY is Carr Creek State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Whitesburg, KY.

What parks are near Whitesburg, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Whitesburg, KY that allow camping, notably Carr Creek Lake and John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir.

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