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%
(46)
17mi from Rough River Lake · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake View camping

2. Lake View camping

98%
(150)
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%
(41)
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.
Pets
Full hookups
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%
(60)
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%
(172)
39mi from Rough River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2026, camping here 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 most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, but still want to get out to the park quickly (~7 miles to the Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for coffee/ice-cream/pizza/barbecue/bar/food/etc. Expand from the campsite into a sketch-work of trails, as if camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve. All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking. Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~530 seedlings as of March 2026), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. A nice way to experience Mammoth Cave NP is to break the trip into 3 layers, covering the underworld (cave tours), upper world (hiking), and the 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 ecologically rich and biodiverse Green River. Kayaking the Green is elemental; like unplugging from one world, pure nature immersion. We offer kayaks (see extras), that leave from camp, tailored to your schedule. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Most commonly booked extras: 1. Dried and split firewood bundles, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. 2. Kayaks on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the NP. 3. Pending availability, we are happy to pitch a tent (REI 4 person Half Dome plus 2 sleeping pads) for those who want to camp but are not traveling with gear.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
MoonLight Grove Farm

7. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(124)
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

99%
(35)
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%
(67)
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

95%
(146)
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%
(49)
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
Fairhaven Farm Campground

13. Fairhaven Farm Campground

94%
(52)
48mi from Rough River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Until 2019, this farm was in the same family since 1889. It has been a working farm since that time. In 2019, our family purchased the farm and continue to operate it much the same way. Our family is devoted to history and preserving the essence of the past. You may very well see us pull up in one of our antique cars to greet you! Our neighbors are friendly and many are also small farmers. You can't see their farms from camp, but don't be surprised to hear roosters crowing, cattle mooing, and donkeys braying in the distance. Our farm is surrounded by the Hoosier National Forest, so you'll see and hear plenty of wildlife too. At various times during the summer, you may find wild blackberries, elderberries, and black raspberries growing right in camp!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Unplugged Acres

14. Unplugged Acres

100%
(21)
50mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
TWO SPOTS TO CHOOSE FROM…… The camping spot we refer to as the NORTHSIDE SPOT is a flat yard atop a hill it makes for a great spot to park your RV, camper, tent or boat. This grass camping spot is always mowed and clean. Two large pine trees provide some shade for this northside camping spot. You can enjoy nearly panoramic views of the night sky! This spot is alongside a country road. It is considered less private than the SOUTH SIDE SPOT. The SOUTH SIDE CAMPING SPOT, is for tent campers only with a smaller vehicle. It is very private and completely surrounded by woods. This spot can accommodate two tents and one or two cars. There is no view of the night sky since you are in a dense forest. Patoka lake is less than 10 minutes away ( boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking). Holiday World ( an amusement park) is about 30 minutes away.
Pets
Buds Farm

15. 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
Field(Primitive Camping)Rosser Road

16. Field(Primitive Camping)Rosser Road

27mi from Rough River Lake · 8 sites
Welcome to our off-grid property at the end of Rosser Road in Cub Run, KY! This is tent-only, fully primitive camping—perfect for peace, quiet, and stargazing. Camping spots are not marked. The area is open, so you can set up wherever you’d like. Please be courteous and give others space. Location & Access The entrance is across a small gulley on a dirt road—4WD is recommended. If you see a house, you’ve gone too far. Look for the angled entrance on the right just before the road ends. We’re just a couple of miles from Wax Marina and Dog Creek at Nolin Lake. GPS Note: Use 250 Rosser Road, Cub Run, KY if your GPS requires an address. This is not the exact property, but it will get you close—then follow the directions above. Check listing photos for map details. Camping Details Follow the dirt path past an old tiny camper and a few scattered items. You can park near it or continue into the field. Set up camp wherever you’d like, giving others about 10–15 feet of space unless agreed otherwise. You may go slightly into the woods where accessible, but: Do not cross fences Do not cross the branch/gulley Do not disturb anything that isn’t yours Amenities & Safety No water, bathrooms, or emergency equipment—bring all essentials. Campfires are allowed—use caution and follow all state fire restrictions. Open 24/7, year-round. Liability Notice: You assume all risks while on the property. The owner is not responsible for accidents, injuries, vehicle issues, snake bites, tick-borne diseases, or any other incidents, including serious injury or death. Recommended: Bug spray Sun protection Proper footwear Packing List Water and food Tent, sleeping bag, and camping gear Campfire supplies Trash bags and waste disposal supplies First aid kit Bug spray and sunscreen Tire repair kit, spare tire, and recovery tools Flashlights/headlamps and extra batteries GPS or maps Warm clothing and rain gear Why You’ll Love It Quiet, off-grid, and free from artificial city light—perfect for stargazing and truly connecting with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Kyla Farm Site

17. 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
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%
(5)
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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