German Bridge - Dewey Lake provides rustic equestrian camping near Williamson, West Virginia. Located in eastern Kentucky, the campground sits at approximately 650 feet elevation along the backwaters of Dewey Lake. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently reaching the upper 80s and mild winters with occasional snowfall. Campsites have minimal facilities and are positioned close together, creating a communal atmosphere for visitors.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: The proximity to Dewey Lake provides easy water access. "Love getting to take my kayak out on the water, great view of the bridge," notes one visitor to German Bridge - Dewey Lake.
Horseback riding: Trail access from campsites allows riders to explore the surrounding terrain. Horse owners can board their animals on-site for an additional fee. As one camper mentions, "For an extra fee ($15 I think, we don't have horses) you could board your horse in the barn."
Swimming and fishing: The lake offers opportunities for water activities, particularly for families. "If you looking to get away and you like the company of close campers this place may be for you. It's right off the back waters of Dewy lake. So great to kayaking or any small boats," according to a German Bridge visitor.
What campers like
Affordable primitive camping: Basic sites at Chief Logan State Park offer a budget-friendly alternative with natural surroundings. "The park also has a large open field for group camping or enough space for about 40 to 50 individual tents for those who prefer a more primitive experience."
Wildlife viewing: The region provides opportunities to observe local fauna. At Chief Logan, one camper noted, "There's a small wildlife center where you can see bears, bobcats and raptors in enclosures for a $2.00 donation."
Trail access: Multiple hiking options exist throughout the area's state parks and recreation areas. A visitor to Jenny Wiley State Park shared, "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."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Horse campgrounds near Williamson, West Virginia generally offer basic facilities. German Bridge campers should prepare accordingly, as one visitor states, "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."
Water quality concerns: Some nearby lakes have reported issues. A camper at Jenny Wiley warned, "We did reserve a small boat and went swimming off of it but do regret it after a UTI and seeing all the trash and debris in the lake. I've never seen so much garbage in a lake in my life."
Variable site conditions: Campsite quality varies considerably between locations. "Some of the sites have shade but others get a lot of sun," reports one German Bridge visitor, while another notes that at Jenny Wiley, "Campsites are close together so there's not a lot of privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreational options: Ole Henry's Camping Retreat offers family-friendly amenities. "The playground area has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is plain drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite."
Consider noise levels: Family-oriented equestrian campsites near Williamson tend to be communal. German Bridge campers should expect a social atmosphere as sites are positioned close together.
Seek guided experiences: Some parks offer educational programs. At Chief Logan, "Lauren Cole offers tours during the mating season" to view the recently reintroduced elk population.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Many equestrian campgrounds prioritize basic setups over RV amenities. Jenny Wiley campers noted, "What's odd is that you share a water spigot with a neighbor so you have to have a long hose to go across your whole section."
Access challenges: RV sites at horse campgrounds may present difficulties. According to a visitor to Jenny Wiley, "Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
Consider alternatives: For RVers seeking more amenities while still accessing horse trails, options exist beyond immediate equestrian campgrounds. At Chief Logan State Park, "Chief Logan has 26 level RV camping spots with water and electricity at all sites and a sewer connection at about half of them."
