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The best camping in Rough River Lake, KY

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60% (5)
60% (5)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rough River Lake adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Rough River Lake

North Fork Campground

1. North Fork Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Rough River Lake · 79 sites · Tents, RVs
Get amped on the outdoors
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cave Creek Campground

2. Cave Creek Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Rough River Lake · 62 sites · Tents, RVs
Resting on the shores of Rough River Lake, Cave Creek Campground is a water-lover’s delight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Axtel Campground

3. Axtel Campground

Campground in Rough River Lake · 153 sites · Tents, RVs
Feeling a little burnt out? A visit to Axtel Campground is just what the doctor ordered
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Laurel Branch Campground

4. Laurel Branch Campground

Campground in Rough River Lake · 61 sites · Tents, RVs
You can rest on your laurels knowing that your stay at Laurel Branch will be bangin’
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Rough River Lake

Tar Springs 2

1. Tar Springs 2

99%
(51)
17mi from Rough River Lake · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Historic property was once a health resort in the 1840's. 3 Lodging rooms are available. Men’s and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, on a private 18 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley. Swimming, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. NO ROCK CLIMBING. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety and ours, no arrivals after dark.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake View camping

2. Lake View camping

98%
(153)
19mi from Rough River Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Bee Happy Campground

3. The Bee Happy Campground

100%
(42)
22mi from Rough River Lake · 6 sites
Small, private campground. 12 RV sites. Located on Jock Rd on a hill in Bee Spring, KY with acres of open space just minutes from Moutardier and Nolin Lake/Dam. 4 sites offer full hook up. These sites are rented monthly but if not occupied are available for nightly rental at $40 a night. Contact me directly (text is best) to book. (270) 799-4648 8 sites have water and electric (no sewer hookup at site). Dump station on property. All sites offer electric 30/50 amp; 110v, gravel sites, picnic table, and fire pit with food grate. Contact me directly at (270) 799-4648 for weekly, monthly, yearly rates/reservations. TEXT IS BEST. Pets are welcome (must be kept on leash and you MUST clean up their waste) Dump station Playground (swings, slide, climbing dome) No bathhouse at the moment. Port A Pot on site. Nearby: Moutardier, Nolin Lake/Dam, Wax, Blue Holler, Leitchfield , Brownsville. Less than 30 miles: Mammoth Cave National Park, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Willow Pond

4. Willow Pond

98%
(28)
25mi from Rough River Lake · 2 sites
Enjoy spectacular sunsets as you relax around the well stocked pond located in Hardin County KENTUCKY. ENJOY: Certified organic hay fields 1 acre stocked fish pond Quiet Evenings around fire pit Hikes around the farm Beautiful star gazing Farm harvests Sandhill Crane migration Within 1 hour: Mammoth Cave, Bernheim Forest, Bourbon Trail
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Noble Pine Campground

5. Noble Pine Campground

98%
(68)
28mi from Rough River Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a farm experience in a small campground with 2 full bathrooms with hot showers, 10 rv/tent sites, 1 glamping bell tent, 1 glamping aframe, and a 3 bedroom 1 bath ‘Trailboss’ cabin available for short term renting. There is a dump station for trailers, and sites have water and 30 amp electric. Horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes a friendly camp cat are happy to engage with guests. Guests will have access to yard games such as corn hole, giant jenga, croquet, bocce ball, steer lassoing and more. Camp is located on the north side of Mammoth Cave National Park. There is Wi-Fi available on premises.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Beardsnest

6. Beardsnest

100%
(182)
39mi from Rough River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is recruiting visitors to camp on scenic prairies, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2026, Beardsnest provides a glimpse into the 5th year of succession, which is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie that is flanked by the rocky and steep slopes of a mature forest. Pet friendly and a good fit for self-sufficient types that prefer quiet camping over dense layouts, but still want to get into to the park quickly (~6.2 miles to Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for a greater variety of food, drink, and other cave experiences. Expand from campsites into a sketch-work of prairie and woodland trails featuring characteristic karst elements of topography. Visitor support allow us to plant trees (~530 seedlings as of March 2026), establish native grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. In our opinion, the essential Mammoth Cave NP experience should have 3 basic layers: 1) the underworld (cave tours), 2) upper world (hiking), and critically, the flow of water that connects the two (Green River). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space where we imagine what is beneath the surface and how these worlds are linked, while above ground hiking on land or kayaking on the rich and biodiverse Green River. There is more here than can be digested in a lifetime of observation, but examining in orbits of the 3 layers will provide a foundation of intuition and understanding. Floating the Green River is like leaving developed reality and dropping into pure nature. We offer kayak trips and guided tours that leave from camp, tailored to your schedule. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Commonly requested extras: 1. Dried and split firewood bundles, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. 2. A variety of kayak tours to suit skill, fitness, and ecological interests, so visitors can float the Green River through the NP, departing casually from your camp and tailored to your schedule. 3. REI 4 person Half Dome plus 2 sleeping pads.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
MoonLight Grove Farm

7. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(127)
40mi from Rough River Lake · 2 sites
Simple living with a few critters and a "whole lotta" walnuts. All natural products made from nature's bounty.  Learn more about this land:Come rest your mind and soul on MoonLight Grove Farm. Camp alongside the Ohio River, watch the barges go by and the Eagles swoop and play. Peaceful, Quiet, Restorative retreat.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Lost On Purpose

8. Lost On Purpose

95%
(42)
41mi from Rough River Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
120 acres of secluded paradise!!! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, no foraging for plants/mushrooms though; and bring your disc golf or archery bows. You will never want to leave! Primitive sites: Hide Away Camp 30 amp hook up 50 amp hookup 1 Br studio cottage 2 bath shower house. Fire pits at each camp.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Old Camp At Bear Hollow

9. Old Camp At Bear Hollow

100%
(11)
41mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site
This electric campsite is near Hoosier National Forest. This area was established as hunting grounds by our family over 30 years ago and still is to this day. Create your own family tradition in this campsite that is ready for two campers on a total of 160ft gravel space. There is both 30 and 50 AMP electric, however no water or sewer hookup. You must provide your own water. There is a dump station 5 miles from the campsite at Tipsaw Recreation Area. This area is great for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and ATV riding....or just relaxing and taking in nature in this beautiful and peaceful area. *30 & 50 AMP Electric *Shade trees *Picnic table *Firepit & Firewood *NO water hookup *NO sewer hookup
Electrical hookup
Pets
Buck Creek Sanctuary

10. Buck Creek Sanctuary

95%
(68)
41mi from Rough River Lake · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves. “There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places” -Wendell Berry Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred. Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet. He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Escape

11. Camp Escape

96%
(166)
45mi from Rough River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Rustic Camping Near Jefferson County Forestry & Tom Wallace Park Welcome to our 5-acre corner lot, a unique mix of rural charm and city convenience. This primitive campsite is perfect for those looking to disconnect and experience nature while still being close to modern amenities. What to Expect: 🌿 Scenic & Secluded – Our property borders Jefferson County Forestry, with an entrance just 1 mile away, offering miles of trails and outdoor adventures. We’re also near Tom Wallace Park, a great spot for hiking and fishing. 🔥 True Off-Grid Camping – This is a bring-your-own-gear site. No water, electricity, or showers—just you, your supplies, and the great outdoors. A fire pit is provided, and there’s a shared porta potty for convenience. 🚜 A Working Farm Community – Expect to see and hear a mix of country and city life. You may hear wildlife, passing trains, tractors, gunfire from Knob Creek Range, and nearby neighbors working their land. It’s all part of the experience of staying in an authentic rural setting. 🏡 Tiny Home Retreat – Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this cozy space offers a peaceful and unique retreat. 🏙️ Convenient Location – Though it feels like a getaway, we’re just 5 minutes from Kroger, Walmart, and a variety of restaurants. Downtown Louisville is a 30-minute drive, and we’re 15 minutes from Fort Knox. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-grid camping adventure close to both nature and the city, this is the spot for you! 🌲🏕️
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Little Blue Horse Camp

12. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%
(50)
45mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site
Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Buds Farm

13. Buds Farm

20mi from Rough River Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Private quite secluded area . May see deer. Wooded area . Snakes cattle. Potable water is available. No showers yet. Toilet. Not far from rough river. Or Louisville. No electricity. Plenty of shade for camp site . Fire pits. Shelter in barn if bad weather hits. Dog friendly. Do ask to keep on a leash. Great place if you want relax.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Camp Rome

14. Camp Rome

23mi from Rough River Lake · 3 sites
Camp Rome Located in Rome, Indiana, Camp Rome offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for a place to call your vacation home, Camp Rome has something for everyone. Camp Rome features spacious sites designed to accommodate RVs of all sizes in a beautiful park-like setting, giving you plenty of room to set up and unwind. All sites include water and electric hookups, and a convenient dump station is available for your septic needs. At Camp Rome, community is at the heart of what we do. We understand that pets are family, so our park is pet-friendly, with designated areas where your furry companions can play and socialize. Choose Camp Rome for an unforgettable RV camping experience. With top-notch amenities, a convenient location, and a welcoming atmosphere, we're more than just an RV park—we're your home away from home. Book your stay today!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Field(Primitive Camping)Rosser Road

15. Field(Primitive Camping)Rosser Road

27mi from Rough River Lake · 8 sites
About ⚠️ PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING This is primitive, off-grid, tent-only camping on private property. Not a developed campground. NO bathrooms, water, electricity, Wi-Fi, trash service, designated campsites, picnic tables, or emergency equipment. Bring everything you need. Location & Access ⚠️ ROUGH GULLEY CROSSING Access requires crossing a rough dirt gulley that may be muddy, rutted, uneven, or washed out depending on weather. 4WD is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED, especially after rain. Review ALL listing photos before booking. The entrance and gulley are shown. You are responsible for determining whether your vehicle can safely access the property. GPS: 250 Rosser Road, Cub Run, KY (gets you close, not the exact location). If you reach the house, you've gone too far. Entrance is the angled dirt road on the right before the road ends. Located minutes from Wax Marina, Dog Creek, and Nolin Lake. Camping No assigned campsites. Camp anywhere in the open field while respecting other campers. Do NOT: Cross fences. Cross the branch/gulley. Leave trash. Disturb property or wildlife. Wildlife This is a natural Kentucky property. Ticks, mosquitoes, spiders, bees, wasps, snakes, and other wildlife ARE present. Ticks are common, especially during warmer months. Bring bug spray, wear appropriate clothing, avoid tall grass when possible, and perform tick checks after spending time outdoors. Campfires Allowed when permitted by law. Never leave unattended. Fully extinguish before leaving. Bring Water, food, tent, sleeping gear, bug spray, sunscreen, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, proper footwear, trash bags, spare tire, tire repair kit, GPS/offline maps, warm clothes, and rain gear. Liability By booking, you accept all risks of primitive camping, including rough terrain, road access, wildlife, insects (including ticks), weather, vehicle damage, injury, illness, or death. The owner is not responsible for accidents, injuries, illnesses, vehicle damage, or other incidents. Why You'll Love It Quiet, private primitive camping with excellent stargazing, open campsites, and quick access to Nolin Lake, Wax Marina, and Dog Creek.
Pets
Campfires
Kyla Farm Site

16. Kyla Farm Site

29mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site
Kyla Farm Site – Peaceful 5‑Acre RV Lot on a Working Kentucky Farm Welcome to Kyla Farm Site, a spacious 5‑acre RV lot tucked into the back side of our 220‑acre family farm near Vine Grove, Kentucky. This site is perfect for RVers seeking a quiet country base with easy access to nature, local towns, and outdoor recreation. Settle in on your own private pad with water, electric, and septic hookups included, so you can enjoy all the comforts you need while still being immersed in rural Kentucky scenery. The large site is ideal for big rigs, motorhomes, or slide‑outs, and provides plenty of room to spread out and relax among the fields and open skies. Wake up to the peaceful rhythm of farm life, take a stroll through rolling pastures, or simply unwind by your camp setup with a sunset view. Whether you’re visiting for a restful overnight stop or a longer getaway, this countryside RV site blends convenience and serenity. Nearby Activities & Attractions: • Close drives to local parks, lakes, and walking trails • Easy access to small towns, eateries, and shops in the Elizabethtown area • Ideal location for exploring the scenic landscapes of Central Kentucky Good to Know: • Pets are welcome (confirm details on booking) • Farm surroundings may include occasional sounds of rural activity • This is a private farm setting — please respect the land and leave no trace Come enjoy a peaceful stay on a working Kentucky farm with modern RV amenities and wide open skies. Book your getaway and experience country comfort today!
Pets
Full hookups
Cedar Ridge Cabin

17. Cedar Ridge Cabin

35mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site
This cabin is located in a private setting with Green River access and a free small petting zoo. It is 7 miles from the public access point at Thelma Stovall Park. The cabin features a one-room, open-floor-plan layout with a detached shower house and restroom. There is no restroom inside the cabin. Access to the river requires a 180-step hike to the water, with well-maintained steps and handrails provided. Amenities include a propane space heater, wood stove, kayak, coffee maker, grill, battery-operated lighting, firewood, and fishing poles.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Mollys Ridge Glamping and Camping

18. Mollys Ridge Glamping and Camping

90%
(5)
35mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site
Experience the beauty of nature and the excitement of a true outdoors escape at Mollys Ridge, an off-the-grid adventure featuring Glamping and Camping rentals located directly over Mammoth Cave in the largest growing Amish community in Kentucky. This amazing outdoor rental experience is the perfect place to be surrounded by lush green woods and incredible wildlife.  At Mollys Ridge not only can you explore 36 acres of outdoor trails and a immersive off grid experience, but glamp it up daydreaming under clear starlit skies against beautiful sunsets. We're constantly working on Molly's Ridge adding more capacityto share this slice of Heaven with more of our Member guests creating custom experiences around adventures tailored just for you and make everlasting memories like nowhere else in Kentucky!  So come enjoy breathtaking views from your luxury outdoor Glamping tent, camping pad or off grid rental at Mollys Ridge surrounded by nature at its most magnificent; offering endless opportunities to create unforgettable moments you will cherish for a lifetime!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Riverbend Retreat

19. Riverbend Retreat

100%
(6)
36mi from Rough River Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Riverbend Retreat, where we offer peaceful campsite and cabin rentals right on the banks of the Green River. Our property is perfectly situated for adventure, located just 10 miles from Mammoth Cave National Park and only 5 miles from the Dutch Country Safari and Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo. When you stay with us, the river is your backyard. We have a boat ramp on-site, along with excellent opportunities for fishing and swimming right from the property. As a family-friendly resort, we are dedicated to making your visit one of your most memorable stays. Whether you are bringing the family for a long weekend, a full week of relaxation, or are just passing through the area, Riverbend Retreat is the ideal place to call home. We look forward to hosting you and helping you experience the very best of Kentucky’s natural beauty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ridgeview Farm

20. Ridgeview Farm

38mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to the peaceful beauty of Kentucky’s rolling countryside at Ridgeview Farm, a quiet ridge-top retreat surrounded by scenic views, open skies, and the sounds of nature. Nestled along the edge of the woods, these private campsites offer a relaxing getaway for RV campers, tent campers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind away from the crowds. Enjoy beautiful country views from your site, gather around the fire ring in the evening, and experience the tranquility of rural Kentucky. Each site provides easy access to nature while maintaining plenty of space to spread out and enjoy your surroundings. Whether you're sipping coffee while watching the sunrise over the hills or relaxing beneath a sky full of stars, Ridgeview Farm offers the perfect setting to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors. Located just a short drive from Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, guests can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and exploring one of Kentucky's most beautiful outdoor destinations. Nearby trails and recreation areas make this an excellent basecamp for adventure, while the peaceful atmosphere of the farm makes it equally appealing for those seeking rest and relaxation. Bring your RV, pitch a tent, or stay in the on-site camper rental and enjoy the simple pleasures of country living. With quiet surroundings, scenic ridge views, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Ridgeview Farm is a hidden Kentucky getaway you'll want to return to again and again.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Rough River Lake camping guide

Overview

About

Boasting rocky shorelines, verdant outcroppings, and tranquil waters, Rough River Lake is a stunning getaway for you and your closest friends. About 90 miles south of Louisville, it's far enough away from civilization to get a breath of fresh air, but close enough not to be too inconvenient. If you're really rarin' to explore, try hitting up the sandy beaches built for swimming and boat launches that are just waiting for your vessel. Hiking and interpretive trails are the perfect place to keep an eye out for wildlife, and no one will fault you for wanting to take a swing at the 18-hole golf course. With the historic Green Farm nearby, you can check out a large ancestral home and water-powered mill sitting on 3,000 miles of picturesque land. Pretty sweet deal, we've gotta say.

Reviews for Rough River Lake Campgrounds

60%
5 ratings · 0 reviews
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