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)
Get amped on the outdoors
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Cave Creek Campground
2. Cave Creek Campground
100%
(1)
Resting on the shores of Rough River Lake, Cave Creek Campground is a water-lover’s delight
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Axtel Campground
3. Axtel Campground
Feeling a little burnt out? A visit to Axtel Campground is just what the doctor ordered
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Laurel Branch Campground
4. Laurel Branch Campground
You can rest on your laurels knowing that your stay at Laurel Branch will be bangin’
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Top-rated campsites near Rough River Lake
The Bee Happy Campground
1. 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
Tar Springs 2
2. 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Lake View camping
3. 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
Full hookups
Noble Pine Campground
4. 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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Beardsnest
5. Beardsnest
100%
(174)
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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Lost On Purpose
6. 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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Old Camp At Bear Hollow
7. 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
8. 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
Camp Escape
9. Camp Escape
95%
(150)
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
Fairhaven Farm Campground
10. 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
Unplugged Acres
11. 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
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave
12. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave
83%
(3)
40mi from Rough River Lake · 276 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
It's time to create amazing family memories with a little something for everyone when you visit Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mammoth Cave™. Celebrating our 35th Anniversary this season, our resort is surrounded by the natural beauty of Cave City in central Kentucky, home to the historic natural wonders found at Mammoth Cave National Park.
We offer a great selection of RV and tent camping sites or deluxe cabins with all the comforts of home. Guests also have access to resort amenities that include favorites like on-site activities with Yogi Bear™ and friends, swimming at Karst Beach, jumping pillows, and fishing ponds.
In addition to our amenities, Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Mammoth Cave™ is near local kayaking and bike trails for a fantastic getaway experience.
Pets
Full hookups
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
13. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
45mi from Rough River Lake · 518 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unparalleled charm of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, the premier destination for glamping enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. Nestled just moments away from the thrilling Holiday World Theme Park and Splashin' Safari Water Park, this award-winning campground offers a unique blend of comfort and excitement.
Recognized as a two-time National RV Park of the Year, Lake Rudolph has earned accolades as the best RV Park in Indiana by Readers Digest. It has also been highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as one of the 11 most family-friendly campgrounds and featured by TravelChannel.com among the top 10 best campgrounds for families.
Open from May 1st to October 31st, this family-friendly haven boasts a variety of accommodations, including cozy cabins and cottages, as well as RV sites. During the first three weekends of December, guests can enjoy special Christmas Cabin packages. On-site amenities include Santa's Splashdown Waterpark, an activity center, an arcade, and a well-stocked camp store, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Experience the magic of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph and see for yourself why it stands out as the best RV park in Indiana. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, or simply a relaxing getaway, this campground has it all
Pets
Full hookups
Buds Farm
14. 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
Kyla Farm Site
15. 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
Riverbend Retreat
16. 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
Ridgeview Farm
17. 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
Boston 3
18. Boston 3
42mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to the peaceful Kentucky countryside on this private 3-acre RV site with full hookups, including water, electric, and sewer.
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the famous Bourbon Trail and Jim Beam Clermont Distillery, and only 15 minutes from Bardstown, Elizabethtown, and Shepherdsville.
Enjoy plenty of room to spread out, relax, and take in the quiet surroundings while remaining close to local attractions, dining, and outdoor recreation. The pull-in gravel site accommodates rigs up to 35 feet and can handle slide-outs, making it a comfortable base for your Kentucky adventure.
Pets
Full hookups
Shortys
19. Shortys
100%
(7)
43mi from Rough River Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Primitive camp sites with fire pits, water on site, and a 2 acre lake stocked with trophy catfish. We also offer a porta-potty. Perfect for tent campers, vans, and truck bed campers. Site 1 & 2 are close together, with the 3rd site being the furthest away. This property has been in my family for a few generations, and we're excited to share.
This lake is catch and release only. No fishing license required.
Pets
Hooch 2
20. Hooch 2
47mi from Rough River Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pull-through driveway for easy access. Conveniently located within one mile of I-65 and close to major stores like Walmart, Lowe’s, and a variety of fast-food options. Situated next to Kart Kountry and other family-friendly attractions, making it a great spot for kids.
Enjoy peaceful river frontage—perfect for fishing or simply relaxing by the water—along with abundant wildlife to observe. A public boat dock is just half a mile away for easy access to the river.
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Josh
April 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
We loved all the parks and the site we had some shade during the day. We will definitely stay again when we are in the area!
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O
Owen
November 2025
32 ft travel trailer
Nice campsite. Provider was quick to respond and accommodating. Would definitely stay there again.
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C
Christina
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
As beekeepers we were excited to find Bee Springs Kentucky and Bee Happy Campground. Roomy camping sites though our camper is only 16 feet there were bigger ones there with plenty of room. It was clean and quiet and Christie is very responsive. The clear night sky made for some great stargazing and pictures on top of the hill.
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C
Chelsey
October 2025
40 ft fifth wheel
With kids
Unexpected last minute overnight stay. Loved having the playground at our site.
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Olivia
September 2025
37 ft travel trailer
With pets
Loved this site! We arrived after sunset and our host called and offered us mag lights if we needed them. It is so nice and dark you can see soooo many stars! We arrived and just stargazed for awhile, we stargazed both nights actually. Our hosts were so nice! Super close to Mammoth Cave National Park! It looks like there’s a lot to do in the area, different caves and what not, unfortunately we didn’t have time for all those. I wish I took more pictures too.
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Jeromy
July 2025
33 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great spot! Nice people! Let us have privacy but also let was very helpful when we needed help! The place is very well kept shaded and easy pull in pull out spot!
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Kyle
July 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We enjoyed our stay at Tracy's. It was nice having power on a really hot weekend. The fire pit was very nice and we made some really nice ribeyes over the fire. The ticks were pretty aggressive, so bring your spray!
See moreG
Gerald
July 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Nice little quiet campground , hosts are excellent ! Just like camping in the country with wildlife and cows !
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Jon
June 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Nice, well-maintained spot on the side of a quiet dirt road. The beautiful tall trees blocked Starlink, but we didn't mind.
See moreC
Carol
June 2025
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
This site was exactly as it was advertised. We were perfectly happy with our experience.
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T
Tony
May 2025
23 ft travel trailer
What a great campground. The owners were present, engaging and very helpful. The campground is very well maintained and in close proximity to many outdoor activities. The sites are very well spaced and you are not squeezed in like sardines as with many other campgrounds. We will definitely be staying there again. Thank you for your hospitality this weekend and we look forward to returning!
See moreG
Gerald
May 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Great camping experience ! Campground is very clean and quiet atmosphere . Hosts were very friendly and helpful . Definitely will stay here again !
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Christina
May 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With kids
We absolutely loved our stay! We booked here for the location convenience to all we wanted to do (national parks and Lincoln’s birthplace). Campground is well kept, the playground was right next to site 12 which was perfect for our two toddlers. Our girls loved seeing the cows, plus we got to see some foxes, and a variety of birds.
Owners were so kind and helpful throughout our stay! 10/10 will go again!
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Sunny
April 2025
26 ft travel trailer
Clean air and pretty trees. We bought eggs from a roadside stand and were invited to a soda fountain by a local. Would happily return!
See moreD
David
April 2025
28 ft travel trailer
Easy access. Wide enough site, almost perfectly level. Site hosts were kind and caring. There are a good number of old cars behind the campground, but being a car freak I was in heaven. Of course cows make it all good too.
See moreB
Brice
March 2025
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very clean and well taken care of. Friendly hosts.
See moreE
Eric
January 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
Nice small campground in a quiet area. Nice to have fresh water and electricity right on the site.
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60%
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