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Camping near Dewey Lake

436 Reviews

Camping opportunities around Dewey Lake in eastern Kentucky range from established state park campgrounds to primitive lakeside sites. Jenny Wiley State Park serves as a central hub on the shores of Dewey Lake, offering a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options. German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides more rustic camping with easy water access but fewer amenities. Several other camping areas exist within 30-45 minutes of the lake, including Paintsville Lake State Park Campground to the north and Yatesville Lake State Park Campground to the northeast.

Access to many campsites varies by season, with most state park campgrounds operating from April through October. "Campsite was super dirty, food left behind on the ground everywhere, beans, egg shells, etc., were dumped in the creek," noted one visitor about Jenny Wiley State Park, highlighting maintenance challenges that can occur. Water quality in Dewey Lake appears problematic according to multiple reviews, with warnings against swimming or fishing. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many camping areas, particularly at Jenny Wiley State Park. The terrain around Dewey Lake features mountainous Eastern Kentucky landscape with mixed forest cover, providing scenic surroundings but sometimes challenging leveling for RVs.

The shoreline camping options attract visitors primarily for fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities. German Bridge offers good lake access for smaller watercraft like kayaks, with one camper noting it has "great view of the bridge" and is "great to kayaking or any small boats." Jenny Wiley State Park provides additional recreational opportunities beyond camping, including hiking trails, an outdoor theater with summer performances, and proximity to wildlife viewing. Despite some maintenance concerns, many campers appreciate the natural setting. Campgrounds in the region tend to fill quickly on weekends, particularly during summer months, with some visitors mentioning difficulty securing reservations at popular sites like Paintsville Lake State Park. Mixed camping experiences reflect varying expectations and campground conditions across different areas around Dewey Lake.

Map showing campgrounds near Dewey Lake, KentuckyExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Dewey Lake (67)

    1. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Auxier, KY
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 889-1790

    $30 - $35 / night

    "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."

    "These are primarily situated around Dewey Lake. I have never actually stayed in the camping facilities as it's always seemed more fun to go "off grid" and visit a more private site."

    2. Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Staffordsville, KY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 297-8488

    $25 - $35 / night

    "We tent camped at one of the hike-in (it's a well maintained gravel path) sites at PLSP, #33. This is the first site on your way in."

    "Very clean campground, the marina is great and easy access to the lake. We kayak and it was great being that close to the lake and the campsites have plenty of room."

    3. German Bridge - Dewey Lake

    4 Reviews
    Dewey Lake, KY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 789-4521

    "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."

    4. Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Adams, KY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 673-1492

    $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."

    5. Wildcat Camping and Fishing

    2 Reviews
    Flatgap, KY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 265-3629

    $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."

    6. German Bridge Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Prestonsburg, KY
    6 miles

    7. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $28 - $94 / 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."

    8. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    49 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / night

    "We've some spent time now in Kentucky and Red River Gorge area is one of favorites in this state. The campground is good pretty simple."

    "It is located just off Exit 11 on the Bert T Combs Parkway (the highway that runs through the area, which is a beautiful drive itself)."

    9. Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grayson Lake, KY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 474-9727

    $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."

    10. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    $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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Dewey Lake

125 Photos of 67 Dewey Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dewey Lake

436 Reviews of 67 Dewey Lake Campgrounds

  • Narain S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Virginia Point Campground

    Tight, easy park

    You'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.

  • Todd C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Breaks Interstate Park Campground

    Fall trip

    Beautiful 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.

  • cyndy B.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Lower Twin Campground (VA)

    Good

    Great host,, very clean.. Has showers ,, bost ramp, hiking,, etc... ONLY downfall about the place is SNAKES... Be on the lookout for copperheads and rattlesnakes !!!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Equestrian Campground — Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Under Construction

    The 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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Great campground

    Very clean. Site was generous and clean. Registration staff helpful and very friendly.

  • 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.

  • Adriyel P.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Ashland Huntington West KOA

    Good Basic KOA

    Plenty of spots, including pull thrus. More affordable than some of the nearby state “resort” parks, though without much in the way of shade or scenery. Staff is very kind, helpful, and understanding. Perfect for an overnight.

Guide to Dewey Lake

Camping near Dewey Lake, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Dewey Lake is a great spot for fishing. Many campers enjoy casting their lines here. One visitor at Grayson Lake State Park Campground said, "You can fish, rent boats and kayaks. Also, the hiking isn’t too bad!"
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the lake. Campers at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground mentioned, "Hiking right near the campground and the lake is not far away at all."
  • Kayaking: If you love being on the water, kayaking is popular here. A reviewer at Yatesville Lake State Park Campground noted, "Clean, sites are spread out, and not a very large campground."

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground said, "The landscape in the park was just beautiful."
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A camper at Falls Campground shared, "We have stayed several times at the Falls Campground and have always had a good experience."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Ashland Huntington West KOA said, "Start off by saying the staff were super great!!!!"

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A family at Grayson Lake State Park Campground enjoyed, "It has 2 playgrounds and plenty of grassy area for kids to play."
  • Choose spacious sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites. A camper at Paintsville Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are nice and not on top of each other."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park said, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site levels: Make sure your RV site is level. A camper at Koomer Ridge Campground noted, "Gravel level sites. Typically very quiet."
  • Look for full hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can be convenient. A visitor at Yatesville Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Just wish they had sewer hookups."
  • Be prepared for limited services: Many campgrounds have limited amenities. A reviewer at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground said, "Sewer hookups need to be repaired and water hookups are far away."

Camping near Dewey Lake, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a designated campground at Dewey Lake?

Yes, there are several designated camping options at Dewey Lake. Jenny Wiley State Park Campground offers formal camping facilities around Dewey Lake with numerous sites. Additionally, German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides camping access with basic amenities including water and toilets. The area also features numerous backcountry camping spots situated around the lake for those seeking a more primitive experience away from developed facilities.

What permits are required for camping at Dewey Lake?

For camping at Dewey Lake, you'll need different permits depending on your chosen location. At Yatesville Lake State Park Campground and other nearby Kentucky state parks, reservations serve as your permit for designated sites and can be made through the state park reservation system. For backcountry camping around Dewey Lake itself, you should check with the local ranger station as some areas require backcountry permits. Always verify current regulations before your trip as permit requirements may change seasonally or annually.

What is the best time of year to camp at Dewey Lake?

The ideal time to camp at Dewey Lake is late spring through early fall (May to October). Zilpo Campground, which shares a similar climate, shines in fall with spectacular foliage. Late spring offers comfortable temperatures and flowering landscapes, while summer provides perfect conditions for water activities despite occasional heat and humidity. Fall camping features mild days, cool nights, and stunning color displays. Twin Knobs Recreation Area visitors note that even during peak summer, the lake provides welcome relief from the heat. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited.

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