Dewey Lake Shelter

Open — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from late April through October.

About

Dewey Lake Primitive Campground is the only U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground at Dewey Lake, offering 10 primitive lakefront campsites accessible by boat or a short 0.25-mile hike. Located in eastern Kentucky just west of the Appalachian Mountains, the campground provides a peaceful, forested setting surrounded by rolling hills that rise hundreds of feet above the water. Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. The campground operates on an honor system with fees paid at a vault station near the information board. Parking is available at the lot on top of the dam or at Picnic Hollow. A water spigot and portable restroom facilities are provided, but electric hookups are not available. The thick forests and calm waters provide habitat for bald eagles, black bear, elk, deer, osprey, and otters, making wildlife viewing a highlight of any stay. Fishing is popular from boats and the shoreline for bass, crappie, brim, bluegill, catfish, and muskie. Nearby Jenny Wiley State Resort Park offers additional amenities including a marina with boat rentals, hiking and mountain biking trails, and lodging. The Sugarcamp Mountain Trails system provides spectacular views of Dewey Lake and surrounding mountains for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.

Directions

From US 23 turn at the red light toward Highlands Hospital (Route 302) for about one mile, turn right onto Route 3 for about 1.5 miles; after first overpass turn right onto 302 Lake Road, take left at bottom of ramp and Dewey Recreation Area Entrance is one mile on right. Continue past the project office and cross the dam. Parking is available at the lot on top of the dam or at Picnic Hollow. The campground is accessible via a 0.25-mile hike or by boat.