This Year-Round Camping Spot In Kentucky Is Worth Bundling Up For
While we typically think of camping as a warm-weather activity, this popular form of recreation can be enjoyed all year round in the Bluegrass State. There are eight Kentucky State Park campgrounds open all year long, in fact, each offering a unique yet equally delightful experience. Paintsville Lake State Park might be our all-time favorite year-round campground in Kentucky, as its grounds transform into a sublime winter wonderland during the colder months. Camping during the winter isn’t for everyone, given the often bracing temperatures, but the peaceful nature of the park and the beautiful sights make it an adventure well worth taking. You’ll be amazed by how much there is to do at Paintsville Lake State Park during the winter, so read on to plan your next adventure!
Have you been camping at Paintsville Lake State Park during the winter? Where are your favorite year-round campgrounds in Kentucky? Share them with your fellow outdoorsy types in the comments below! If you’re looking forward to an adventure in the great outdoors, especially in more rural areas, you might want to consider a subscription to AllTrails + – this hiking app is amazing for when you’re headed off the beaten path, since it makes it easy to stay connected with downloadable trail guides featuring step-by-step directions. In the mood for a more suburban adventure? When you stay at Paintsville Lake State Park, you’re only a short distance from the charming town of Paintsville.
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Rural Adventures In Kentucky
What Are The Best Things To Do Near Paintsville Lake State Park?
- Paintsville Lake is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in Kentucky, and it makes up the heart of the park. This 1,140-acre lake surrounded by rock formations has a marina and is right next to the campground. This is also where you'll find the Kiwanis Trail, an easy 1.6-mile hike. During the warmer seasons, this is a popular spot for water recreation, but is an amazingly peaceful spot for a hike during the winter.
- The US 23 Country Music Highway Museum is located only a short drive away in nearby Paintsville, and the whole area has a rich music history. The town of Paintsville was the birthplace of legendary singer Crystal Gayle, the sister of country icon Loretta Lynn. The rustic house where they grew up is still standing, and the museum offers a tour of the place known as "Butcher Hollow, where you can even see Gayle's childhood bedroom.
What Are The Best Campgrounds In Kentucky?
- Falls Campground, located in the rural area of Louisa, is full of stunning natural sights including The Falls of Blaine Creek. This small waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and playing. But that's just the start - the campground also has a beautiful sandy beach and some great fishing spots. It's a laid-back, rustic campground ideal for those who want to get back in touch with nature.
- Kentucky Splash is located in the small town of Williamsburg, hidden in southeastern Kentucky. But this isn't your average campground - it's a waterpark! It's one of the top attractions in the area, but many people don't know about the attached campground, which features 18 fully-equipped RV sites and five tent sites. The backdrop of the mountains is beautiful, making this an ideal and affordable camping option for family vacations.