Dewey Lake Shelter #3, our most popular out of all the shelters.
Dewey Lake Downstream Area containing shelters 1, 2, and 3.
Dewey Lake Shelter #4, located at Picnic Hollow.
Kayaking and canoeing is a pleasant way to enjoy the beauty at Dewey Lake.
Dewey Lake Shelter #2

Featured amenities

Playground Playground

About Dewey Lake Shelter

Dewey Lake Shelters offer a day-use area on the shores of Dewey Lake in eastern Kentucky. Located just west of the Appalachian Mountains, the lake shore offers a peaceful, forested setting with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for groups of up to 150 guests.

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently closed

Campground Amenities

Most popular amenities

Playground Playground
Water and Hygiene

Water and Hygiene

  • Potable Water
On Site Services

On Site Services

  • Playground
Missing information?

Reviews (29)

What Guests Are Saying

Dewey Lake Shelter offers a beautiful and well-maintained environment, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations. Many visitors appreciate the cleanliness, ample space, and friendly staff, highlighting the variety of activities available, such as fishing and games. However, some guests noted disappointment regarding the distance from playgrounds and changes to sports facilities.

Review Summary

4.1
29 reviews
5
48.3%
14
4
37.9%
11
3
0.0%
0
2
6.9%
2
1
6.9%
2

clyde B

January 11, 2020

5

We really enjoyed having our company picnic there. We had around 120 employees and family members there and everybody had a great time. The facilities were great.

Myrl B

January 17, 2020

4

Very clean, very happy.

Jo ann M

August 16, 2020

4

Shelter was clean ,easily accessible with all the hook-ups needed for a great outdoor experience.

Judy H

May 16, 2021

4

There is always a cool breeze under shelter 3. There is only 2 electric plug-ins so need to bring extension cords. There is a horse shoe pit beside if shelter and plenty of room for corn hole ir other outdoor games. Our family always enjoy getting together there.

Michael B

June 21, 2021

4

Very clean and nice, couple children got stung in the grass, it was a little on the high side.

nancy b

August 22, 2021

1

Due to COVID we were unable to use this facility. Could not get in touch with anyone to cancel.

Alyssa C P

August 29, 2021

5

Shelter was in excellent condition. Clean, ideal place for church and family gatherings.

Delanna M

May 1, 2022

2

Clean. Great park!

Clyde B

September 17, 2022

4

Site was clean and dry, not to far from bathroom, nice large bbq pits

Judy H

May 20, 2023

4

Shelter #3 is perfect for keeping an eye on your kids out on the playground.

Location & Directions for Dewey Lake Shelter

Hc 70 Box 540, Van Lear, KY 41265 United States

Elevation: 250 ft

Getting There

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 mi; after 1st over pass turn right onto 302 Lake Road, take left at bottom of ramp and Dewey Recreation Area Entrance ...

Nearest town

Van Lear, KY - 4.5 mi

About 7 min to downtown

Highway access

Dewey Lake Shelter is accessible via US 23, which is approximately 1 mile from the campground. Route 302 and Route 3 provide additional access to the area.

Policies & Rules

General

  • Alcohol and firearms are prohibited within the park
  • Restrooms close through the spring and summer months and after September.
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
  • Bouncy houses and water slides which require continuous power/water usage are prohibited. 
  • No water hook-ups are available. Water is provided at a fountain and is only available in means of drinking water only.
  • kiddie pools, water slides, and/or inflatables are prohibited.
  • Chalk, water balloons, silly string, paint, confetti, smoke sticks, or any other related items that can cause defacement, destruction, and/or littering are prohibited.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: October 7, 2026

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Explore Van Lear, KY

Population: 443

Nearby larger city

Kingsport, TN

Approx. 83 mi away (straight-line distance)

Elevation: 646 ft

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