Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
00 review75 Theatre Court, Prestonsburg, Kentucky, 41653-9799, United States
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
$25.00 - $100.00 / 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
Fees include $25 for golf cart permits for the week and $100 for the calendar year. Disabled guests are not required to purchase a permit if they display their disability hanging tag.
About this campground
Nestled in Kentucky's eastern mountains, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park offers 121 well-appointed campsites equipped with utility hookups for modern comfort. The campground provides convenient central service buildings with hot showers and clean restrooms, while an on-site grocery store ensures you'll never run out of essentials. A dedicated dump station makes RV camping hassle-free, creating the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventure.
The campground caters to various camping styles, including tent, RV, and cabin camping. It features 121 improved sites and primitive options.
Historical SignificanceStep into the footsteps of legendary pioneer woman Jenny Wiley, whose incredible story of survival defines this remarkable park. Captured by Native Americans in the late 1700s, Jenny's harrowing tale of captivity and daring escape through these very mountains has become woven into Kentucky folklore. Her indomitable spirit lives on in every trail and vista, reminding visitors of the courage and resilience that shaped Appalachian history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Appalachian seasons at Jenny Wiley, where warm summers invite endless outdoor activities and crisp winters transform the landscape into a serene wonderland. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures perfect for hiking, though occasional heavy rains during certain weeks add drama to the mountain scenery. Each season paints the park in different colors, from vibrant autumn foliage to lush summer greens.
ElevationThe park's mountain setting provides varied terrain and scenic overlooks throughout the camping areas.
Natural Features and SceneryAt the heart of the park lies the stunning Dewey Lake, a 1,100-acre mountain reservoir teeming with largemouth and hybrid striped bass, feisty bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie that keep anglers coming back season after season. Beyond the water's edge, miles of forested trails wind through dense hardwood forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and peaceful spots for reflection amid towering trees and mountain laurel.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky, the park showcases the region's distinctive ridges and valleys carved over millennia. These ancient mountains, named for the brave Jenny Wiley herself, feature dramatic rock formations and deep hollows filled with wilderness trails. The forested landscape represents some of Kentucky's most pristine mountain terrain, where nature's grandeur meets pioneer history at every turn.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground and lodge have some accessibility features, but reviews note limitations. One user mentions that "if you're disabled, you don't have a lot of access to everything, and you do have a few steps you have to go up to enter the lodge."
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some users reporting uneven or sloped sites that require leveling efforts.
Sites PrivacyThe cabins and campsite layouts offer varying levels of privacy. While some cabins provide secluded spaces, others are described as tightly spaced.
Total Campsites121 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSection A has level sites, while other sections require leveling blocks. Reviews suggest avoiding cabins that lack lake views due to maintenance issues.
Best CampsitesSection A was positively reviewed for its proximity to lake swimming.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in times are not detailed.
Check-out
Check-out time is 1:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum reservation window is 12 months in advance.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Mentioned in reviews but exact guest limits are not detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes multiple loops, but bicycle access is restricted by a semi-busy road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with distinct summer activities indicated.
Reservation PlatformsBooking must be done online; no walk-up reservations allowed.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations must be made online.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy is included in the authoritative description or reviews.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park offers diverse recreational opportunities, including water-based activities, cultural events, and adventure trails. Highlights include 13 miles of hiking trails, fishing at Dewey Lake, and seasonal elk viewing tours.
Hiking
The park boasts over 13 miles of trails for all levels, as well as access to the 154-mile Jenny Wiley Trail Heritage Byway. However, some trails, like the Dawson Rail Trail, are reported as hard to locate.Fishing
Fishing at Dewey Lake is popular, with species including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. A boat dock with 199 slips and pontoon rentals is available.Swimming
Swimming is primarily in Dewey Lake. Some reviews describe the lake as polluted with trash, leading to concerns about safety and cleanliness.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available and are described as enjoyable by users.Boating
The park offers boating opportunities, including pontoon rentals. However, user reviews mention poorly maintained boats and inexperienced staff at the marina.Wildlife viewing
Seasonal elk viewing tours are a highlight, especially in October, drawing wildlife enthusiasts to the park.Beach activities
The newly opened Dewey Lagoon beach offers water inflatables. Some users describe the beach as small and crowded.Cultural and Educational Programs
Cultural activities include live theatrical plays and holiday events like fireworks and square dancing, although some users criticize the lack of outdoor-focused programs.Winter Activities
Limited information is available on winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Activities include canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on Dewey Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; however, firewood importation from outside Kentucky is prohibited due to the Emerald Ash Borer.
- Quiet hours are Quiet time begins at 11:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPollution and littering are frequent concerns mentioned in reviews. Wildlife such as bears and insects (cockroaches, bedbugs) have occasionally been reported.
Active alertsNo specific alerts noted in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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, including hospitals and a medical clinic, are located within 10 miles.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer weekends require a minimum 2-night stay; holiday periods have longer minimum stays.
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information was provided about trash and recycling facilities, although reviews indicate issues with overflowing garbage cans at cabins and litter around the lake.
Proximity to water featuresSites are near Dewey Lake, with access to swimming and boating.
Common complaintsMany complaints focus on maintenance issues, such as unclean bathrooms and campsites, poor staff responsiveness, and operational issues at the dump station.
HostCampground hosts are reportedly not present or attentive, as noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
75 Theatre Court, Prestonsburg, Kentucky, 41653-9799, United States
Driving directionsJenny Wiley is located in Prestonsburg, off US 23/460, on KY 3. From I-64 West, take the Mountain Parkway exit. From I-64 East, take the US 23 South exit. From I-75 north, take the Hal Rogers Parkway exit. From I-75 south, take the I-64 East exit.
Road access is clearly described via major highways including US 23/460 and I-64. No specific challenges such as seasonal closures or unpaved roads are mentioned.Nearby places
Prestonsburg, null miles
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available within proximity, mentioned as within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences. While some users praise the natural beauty and range of activities, others highlight maintenance issues and staff shortages.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic beauty, diverse activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. One review states, "The nature in the area was gorgeous," while another highlights the "beautiful picturesque...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include poor maintenance, cleanliness issues, and staff shortages. One user mentions, "The camp store where you check in was manned on Saturday but never saw another person."
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose sites in the A section for more level ground, bring blocks for uneven sites, and avoid busy weekends if seeking tranquility.
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees high activity levels with events like live music and fireworks, but also crowding and increased litter. Winter offers a quieter experience but fewer open amenities.
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful state park with great cabins," "campground has gone down somewhat," "the lodge and lake views are amazing."
Site-Specific Reviews
Section A is noted for level sites, while other areas require creative leveling for RVs.
Accessibility Features
Some negative feedback on accessibility, particularly at the lodge.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a limit of two per site.
Last updated August 10, 2025