Carr Creek State Park
00 review2086 Smithboro rd. P.O. BX 249, Sassfrass, Kentucky, 41759, United States
Carr Creek State Park
$1.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Golf cart permits cost $25 weekly or $100 annually, which can be used across all Kentucky State Park campgrounds.
About this campground
Discover Kentucky's best-kept secret where pristine waters meet endless sandy shores. Home to the longest sand beach in any Kentucky State Park, this lakeside haven has earned a devoted following among camping and fishing enthusiasts who return year after year. Recent upgrades to water and power facilities ensure modern comforts blend seamlessly with the natural splendor that defines this remarkable destination.
Carr Creek State Park provides facilities for both RV and tent camping. Group sites and primitive camping options are not explicitly mentioned. The campground is described as small and cozy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that transform the landscape throughout the year. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland with occasional snow dustings and crisp, cold air that creates perfect conditions for cozy campfire gatherings. As spring awakens the mountains, mild temperatures invite exploration, while autumn paints the hillsides in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer delivers warm, languid days ideal for beach lounging, though afternoon humidity reminds you you're in the heart of Appalachia. Many seasoned visitors favor the gentle temperatures of spring and fall for the ultimate camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbrace the dramatic beauty where ancient mountains cradle the expansive 750-acre Carr Fork Lake. This angler's paradise teems with fighting bass, plentiful crappie, and prized walleye, while the surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater of stunning vistas. The interplay of water and mountain creates countless scenic moments, from misty dawn reflections to sunset alpenglow on the ridgelines.
Geological RegionNestled in the rugged terrain of southeastern Kentucky, this campground showcases the region's most treasured natural assets. The crystalline waters of Carr Fork Lake serve as the centerpiece, complemented by that remarkable sand beach that seems almost magical in this mountainous setting. The surrounding peaks and valleys tell the ancient story of Appalachian geology, creating a landscape where every view deserves a photograph.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as allowances for disabled guests to use golf carts without purchasing a permit. However, some reviews highlight the lack of a handicap toilet.
Sites SizeReviews describe sites as 'spacious,' and others mention 'nice level pads to park,' but specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly discussed, but user reviews suggest it is a small campground, which could mean less seclusion between sites. One review notes, 'The campground is not huge but just big enough to be comfortable.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
The maximum reservation window is up 12 months except. Minimum 1-night mon stay pean
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned in the source materials or reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Reservation PlatformsFood storage locker fees Description description null
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Carr Creek State Park can engage in a range of activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The lake supports boating and water sports, and there is a playground for children.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within the park, but specific details on trail lengths and difficulty are not provided. One user review mentions, 'Nice hiking trails,' while another notes 'kids ride their bikes on the loop or enjoy the playground.'Fishing
Fishing is highlighted as a key attraction, with opportunities to catch bass, crappie, and walleye in the 750-acre lake.Swimming
The park features the longest sandy beach in the Kentucky State Parks system, as well as lake swimming. However, there are mentions of the beach being closed temporarily in certain reviews.Biking
Biking is available, and one reviewer notes, 'Kids ride their bikes on the loop or enjoy the playground,' indicating a family-friendly atmosphere.Boating
Boating is supported with a marina and boat launch facilities. Both power boating and canoeing are mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are present, though specific species or locations are not detailed.Beach activities
The sandy beach is a significant feature of the park, offering sunbathing and swimming. However, reviews indicate occasional closures.Winter Activities
There is no information about winter-specific activities in the source materials or reviews.Water Sports
Water sports including kayaking and canoeing are available. Reviews mention these as popular activities on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- strict prohibitions importing Kentucky Emerald firewood borer
Hazards
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are reported to be within 10 miles, though specific facilities are not named.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed in the authoritative sources or reviews, but the campground has been described as having issues with cleanliness, indicating a potential need for better waste management.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent Carr Fork Lake.
Campground Map
2086 Smithboro rd. P.O. BX 249, Sassfrass, Kentucky, 41759, United States
Driving directionsLocated 15 miles south of Hazard on KY 15 South.
No explicit details are provided about road types beyond KY 15 South. Accessibility appears straightforward from Hazard.Nearby places
Hazard (15 miles southeast).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and retail offerings for firewood, ice, and snacks are available within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Carr Creek State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Carr Creek State Park are generally mixed. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, friendly staff, and variety of recreational activities. However, significant concerns are raised about the cleanliness of facilities, especially restrooms and showers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes 'spacious campsites,' 'friendly staff,' and a 'beautiful lake.' Reviews also highlight the sandy beach, marina, and opportunities for boating and fishing.
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaints center around the poor condition of the bathrooms and showers. Examples include 'Showers are disgusting!' and 'Bathrooms are not kept.' Other issues include occasional...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing earplugs due to occasional noise, especially from rowdy groups. Firewood is available for purchase on-site, and visitors recommend exploring the lake by kayak or boat....
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer is the most popular time to visit, with activities like swimming and fishing being primary draws. Fall may offer a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
Camper Quotes
'Great place to camp, fish, swim, kayak, etc.' (Samantha D'costa); 'Campground is in much better shape this year. They upgraded the power and water supplies.' (Randall Deaton); 'Wouldn’t recommend...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not mentioned in reviews, but one user notes, 'Nice level pads to park,' indicating RV-friendly sites.
Accessibility Features
Reviews highlight a lack of handicap-accessible facilities. For instance, 'No handicap toilet,' and no handicap-accessible showers are mentioned.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly discussed in the reviews, and no specific pet-related facilities or policies are mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025