Paintsville Lake State Park
00 reviewP O BOX 920, 1551 KY RT 2275, STAFFORDSVILLE, Kentucky, 41256, United States
Paintsville Lake State Park
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Full hookup sites available for $32 per night with 10% discount for AAA members.
About this campground
Escape to Paintsville Lake State Park, where modern RV sites with full hookups meet pristine wilderness camping opportunities along the shimmering shores of Paintsville Lake. Whether you're pulling in with a luxury motorhome or pitching a tent under the stars, this Appalachian gem delivers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, all wrapped in the embrace of Kentucky's stunning wooded hillsides.
The campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV sites, tent sites, and primitive options.
Historical SignificanceImmerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of Eastern Kentucky, with the renowned Country Music Highway Museum just a short drive away. Step back in time at the Mountain Homeplace, where Appalachian history comes alive through authentic period demonstrations and exhibits. Music lovers won't want to miss the chance to visit Loretta Lynn's Homeplace, a mere 30-minute journey that connects you to the roots of country music royalty.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Appalachian seasons at Paintsville Lake, where crisp winter mornings often dip below freezing and occasional snowfall transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland. Spring arrives with moderate rainfall that awakens wildflowers across the hillsides, while summer beckons with warm days reaching into the comfortable 80s—perfect for lake activities and evening campfires under star-filled skies.
ElevationThe park's rolling terrain offers varied elevations throughout the Appalachian foothills, creating diverse camping experiences from lakeside spots to hillside retreats with sweeping valley views.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a naturalist's paradise tucked into the ancient Appalachian hills, where dense forests create a living cathedral around your campsite. Spring wildflowers paint the understory in vibrant colors, while year-round bird watching opportunities delight enthusiasts with sightings of both resident songbirds and seasonal migrants. Keep your camera ready for encounters with local wildlife that call these protected woodlands home, from white-tailed deer grazing at dawn to wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush.
Geological RegionSet within the time-worn Appalachian Mountains, Paintsville Lake State Park showcases the region's signature rolling hills and deep valleys carved by ancient waters. The centerpiece Paintsville Lake fills a dramatic valley between forested ridges, creating a stunning interplay of water and woodland that defines this distinctive corner of Eastern Kentucky's geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is noted for handicap access, with showers that are 'exceptionally equipped' to accommodate physically challenged guests.
Sites SizeVaried, with spacious sites for RVs and smaller walk-in sites for tents.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some sites are sunnier and closer together, while tent sites in the wooded area are more secluded.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect sites closer to water for activities like jet skiing or shaded tent sites for privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 18 for lake views; site 20 (back-in site with full hookups); site 16 near the bathhouse and playground.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum reservation window is 12 months in advance. Minimum stay is 1 night during weekdays and 2 nights during peak season weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site were not specified explicitly in authoritative content or reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes back-in RV sites and primitive tent sites located in wooded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online and possibly via phone; no specific platform URLs provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round, some guests noted that a few sites were open for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicyCancelation policies were not detailed in authoritative content.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can engage in a variety of activities including hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, biking, and wildlife viewing. The park also offers cultural and recreational programs.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available less than a mile from the campground. These trails cater to a variety of skill levels and offer scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the lake, and the area is described as 'great for fishing.' Specific types of fish are not mentioned.Swimming
Swimming is available in the lake, with mentions of 'lake swimming' by reviewers. There are no specific details about designated swimming areas or safety measures.Biking
Guests can bike within the facility and on nearby trails.Boating
A boat launch ramp and marina are available. Boating activities include jet skiing, sail boating, and canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, and wildflower viewing is also noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and paddleboarding can be enjoyed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold for $6 per bundle.
- Quiet hours were not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNo explicitly stated hazards, although users noted wildlife sightings such as ducks and general safety measures like leash laws for dogs.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Within 10 miles: Hospital, medical clinic, emergency services, and police station in Paintsville.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season includes weekends and holidays, with minimum stay requirements.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site and are emptied a couple of times per week. One reviewer mentioned the garbage truck as a 'necessary evil' due to the early morning collection time.
Proximity to water featuresPaintsville Lake is within walking distance. Amenities include a boat launch and marina.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention issues with WiFi connectivity and noise from garbage trucks early in the morning.
HostCampground hosts available, described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
P O BOX 920, 1551 KY RT 2275, STAFFORDSVILLE, Kentucky, 41256, United States
Driving directionsPaintsville Lake is on US 23 at the Staffordsville/Paintsville exit in Johnson County, KY. on Rt.40 West. From the Mountain Parkway, take the 460 exit out of Salyersville into Paintsville and turn on Rt.40 West at the intersection and follow the brown signs and turn right on KY.RT. 2275, continue down the hill until you see the sign, "Road Ends in Water" and you are here.
Easy access from US 23 and Mountain Parkway with paved roads. "Very easy access about 4 miles from Hwy 23 in Paintsville, Kentucky," as noted in reviews. No mentions of seasonal closures.Nearby places
Paintsville (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Salyersville (approximately 20 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, firewood, snacks, supplies, and fuel available within 10 miles. A Dollar General is "up the road a little ways," per user reviews.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Paintsville Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Paintsville Lake State Park receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and range of amenities. Many visitors praise its peaceful atmosphere and the convenience of nearby stores and attractions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Clean and well-maintained facilities," "friendly and helpful staff," "spacious and level sites," "great for fishing, boating, and family activities," and "peaceful atmosphere."
Common Concerns
Limited or unreliable cell phone and Wi-Fi service, early morning dumpster collection noise, and some sites offering less shade or privacy.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a hotspot or be prepared for limited connectivity. Consider choosing a site closer to the lake or playground depending on your preference. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Seasonal Insights
Summer months seem to be particularly popular for boating and fishing. Spring and early fall offer cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring. Winter options are less frequently mentioned.
Camper Quotes
'We love this place. It is so clean.' - Lisa Bertram. 'The staff was super friendly and helpful.' - Jackie Duncan. 'The showers!! Best showers we have experienced so far!' - Tara Gearhart.
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #20 offers full hookups, a back-in layout, and proximity to playgrounds and bathhouses. Site #18 provides lake views and is recommended for its scenic location. Primitive tent sites are...
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Accessibility Features
Showers and facilities are noted as being accessible for guests with disabilities. Handicap access is highlighted as a key amenity.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed on a leash, and the campground is described as pet-friendly by several reviewers.
Last updated August 10, 2025