Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

Open

Open year-round, 24 hours a day. No fees or reservations required. The area becomes unsafe and inaccessible if Cave Run Lake levels exceed 733 feet.

Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 2:48PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Jackson KY

2:48 PM — July 3rd, 12:30 AM

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values near or exceeding 105 degrees. Additionally, low temperatures mainly in the 70s will provide only limited relief tonight. * WHERE...Portions of east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Kentucky. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.

Daniel Boone National Forest

Fees waived at Natural Arch, Billy Branch for Independence Day, July 4

In recognition of Independence Day, visitors will not be charged recreation fees at standard amenity fee* sites, Saturday, July 4, 2026. *Standard amenity fees are often charged at picnic areas, developed trailheads and destination visitor centers. Natural Arch Picnic Area and Billy Branch Picnic…

Daniel Boone National Forest

Offices closed for Independence Day, July 3

All Forest offices will be closed Friday, July 3, 2026, in recognition of Independence Day. Offices will resume normal hours of operation Monday, July 6, 2026.

About

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area is a free primitive camping destination tucked along a quiet, narrow section of Cave Run Lake within Daniel Boone National Forest's Cumberland Ranger District. The area features ten designated campsites, some equipped with lantern posts and fire rings. The site layout allows vehicles to drive directly to the water's edge, making it particularly appealing for paddlers with kayaks, canoes, or small watercraft who want easy lake access without hauling gear long distances. The calm waters of this sheltered arm of Cave Run Lake offer excellent conditions for non-motorized boating, while the surrounding forest provides a secluded atmosphere. Facilities are minimal: portable toilets are provided and trash collection operates seasonally. Potable water is not available, so campers must pack in all drinking water. Campers should monitor lake levels before visiting, as the area becomes unsafe and inaccessible when water rises above 733 feet. General lake prohibitions apply. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees or reservations required.

Directions

From I-64, take exit 137 (KY 32) toward Morehead. Turn right on US 60. In less than one mile, turn left onto KY 519. Continue south on KY 519 for several miles. Turn left on Forest Service Road 947. The campground is on the right. From Morehead, take KY 519 S for 9.3 miles. Turn left onto Paragon-Craney Road/Tunnel Road (Forest Service Road 947). Destination will be on the right.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi No
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites

Contact

Phone +1 (606) 784-6428

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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