🌤 Weather at Grayson Lake State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29–76 °F | 56–87 °F | 30–81 °F | 21–47 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Grayson 3 SW, 6 mi away, elevation 700 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Grayson Lake State Park is a public state park in Kentucky near Olive Hill in Carter County. Spanning 1,512 acres and established in 1970, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Kentucky |
| Nearest City | Olive Hill |
| County | Carter County |
| Park Size | 1,512 acres |
| Established | 1970 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (700 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Grayson Lake State Park is located near Olive Hill, Kentucky. The park’s coordinates are 38.2161, -83.0175.
Things to Do
Kentucky state parks are characterized by the state’s extensive waterways, rolling Bluegrass hills, and the rugged Appalachian foothills. They are renowned as “resort parks,” offering excellent amenities alongside outdoor recreation. Activities center heavily around massive recreational lakes perfect for boating, water skiing, and world-class bass fishing. Land activities include hiking forested trails, camping, golfing on championship-level park courses, horseback riding, and exploring massive underground cave networks. The parks also preserve significant Civil War and frontier pioneer history.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal. Spring (April–May) offers blooming dogwoods, excellent fishing, and comfortable hiking weather. Fall (October) brings beautiful foliage to the forested hills and perfect camping temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot and very humid, making it the primary season for lake boating and swimming. Winter is generally quiet, though the Resort Park lodges offer cozy, peaceful off-season getaways with discount rates.
Visitor Tips
Kentucky state parks do not charge a general entrance fee for day use. The system is famous for its 17 “Resort Parks” which feature full-service lodges, restaurants (often serving traditional Kentucky cuisine), and 18-hole golf courses, making them great destinations for those who prefer modern amenities over tent camping. If you plan to camp, book well in advance for summer and fall weekends. Note that some park marinas and pools operate strictly on a Memorial Day to Labor Day schedule.
Explore More Kentucky State Parks
Grayson Lake State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Kentucky. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Kentucky guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Grayson Lake SP — 1,512 acres on Grayson Lake (1,500 acres). The park’s lake, cliffs, and mixed hardwood forest support bald eagles, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer. Muskie, largemouth bass, and crappie fill the lake.
Nearby Attractions
Grayson — adjacent. Carter Caves SRP — 15 miles north. Carter County — surrounding.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Carter Caves State Resort Park (a short drive away) and Greenbo Lake State Resort Park (within about an hour’s drive).
⛺ Camping at Grayson Lake State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 69 sites — All 69 sites are Standard Electric (electric and water hookup, no sewer, mostly back-in 39-59 ft). Two loops: sites 1-17 and 51-71, and sites 18-49. |
|---|---|
| Reservations | Kentucky State Parks/ReserveAmerica online booking; 1 night minimum weekdays, 2 nights Friday/Saturday; up to 12 months in advance; park office 606-474-9727, campground 606-474-6856. |
| Special sites | Dump station; bath house/showers; comfort stations/restrooms; laundry; fire rings; golf cart permits waived for disabled guests with a disability tag. |
| Season notes | Campground open through November 15, 2026, reopens March 15, 2027; peak seasons May 20–August 31 and October 1–31. |
Camping questions about Grayson Lake State Park
Can you camp at Grayson Lake State Park?
Yes. Grayson Lake State Park has 69 campsites. All 69 sites are Standard Electric (electric and water hookup, no sewer, mostly back-in 39-59 ft). Two loops: sites 1-17 and 51-71, and sites 18-49.
How do you reserve a campsite at Grayson Lake State Park?
Kentucky State Parks/ReserveAmerica online booking; 1 night minimum weekdays, 2 nights Friday/Saturday; up to 12 months in advance; park office 606-474-9727, campground 606-474-6856.
Source: parks.ky.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Grayson Lake State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of Kentucky state parks but must be leashed in all public areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash required in all public areas (official policy does not state a maximum length)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are restricted from beaches, nature preserves and some historic sites
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pet-friendly rooms and cabins available at select lodges for a $50-per-accommodation fee, max two pets, 80 lbs per pet
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $50 pet fee per accommodation for lodging (undisclosed pets: $150 per incident)
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets banned from State Nature Preserve trails at parks including John James Audubon, Natural Bridge, Cumberland Falls, Carter Caves and Pine Mountain
Are dogs allowed at Grayson Lake State Park?
Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of Kentucky state parks but must be leashed in all public areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ky.gov. More: Kentucky state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Grayson Lake State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Lexington
from $149
from $199
from $550