The best camping near Rough River Lake
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rough River Lake adventure.
60% (5 reviews)
60% (5 reviews)
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Top-rated campgrounds near Rough River Lake
99%
(103)
Lake View camping
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Reynolds Station, KY
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.
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$10
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98%
(147)
Prayer Mountain Mushroom Farms
4 sites · RVs, Tents48 acres · Upton, KY
Step off the grid and into the peace and quiet of our lovely 50 acre farm. Every site is private and absolutely beautiful. We provide wood, because who needs that hassle and expense. The Folks at Prayer Mountain want everyone to be able to enjoy a nice relaxing stay off the grid. All you need is a car and a love for the outdoors. Pick up some of our delicious mushrooms and farm fresh eggs on your way in. You will not regret picking Prayer Mountain. Safe and Happy travels to you.
All booking must go through the Hipcamp app. Cash or in person reservations are never accepted. To extend your stay please use the app.
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$20
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100%
(58)
Beardsnest
4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Cave City, KY
This new-in-formation ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to backcountry camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2024, camping here provides a glimpse into a 3 year-old successional prairie, which at this phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie seeded with a growing variety of native flowers.
Most likely a good fit for those who are self-sufficient and like to avoid busy camping areas, 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 you were camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve.
Water tap and hose by main house parking area, for cleaning dishes, spraying off, or filling reservoirs.
Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~400 seedlings so far and 75 planned for 2024), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species.
Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project!
p.s. Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of red cedar and oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle.
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$25
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96%
(14)
Lost On Purpose
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents125 acres · KY
Secluded and quiet, not a neighbor in sight! We have hiking, biking and horse trails galore. Fishing in the pond is permitted with a barbless hook and catch n release! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, and bring your disc golf or archery bows- we have that too! You will never want to leave!
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$25
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95%
(106)
Dragonfly Ranch camping with horses
2 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Cub Run, KY
Learn more about this land:
This is a horse ranch so you can sleep in the company of horses or in the woods with them in the distance ( check if available/storm damage).We have rolling hills, beautiful views from the hill tops, valley with creeks and a waterfall when not in dry or draught and an abundance of wildlife. Also we're located 5-10 minutes from mammoth cave park border, hike, bike and horse trails, river, lake, blue holler atv park and so much more. If you are sensitive to animal noises you may bring earplugs. There isn't a bathroom/ shower house yet so we ask that you bring a port-a-pot of some sort. We're constantly making upgrades to the Ranch so we hope you enjoy your stay. Please refrain from feeding the horses or dogs because it creates a bad habit and folks that don't know how sensitive a horses gut is can possibly kill them. Respect privacy of others and pack out all that you pack in. Shut any gates you come through. We have a hot wire fenced in section for folks to park in if they do not want to be so close to the horses as well. If you don't like horses or dogs please consider alternative camp site. Limited pet allowance...check before booking please. Also, we've had issues with the site and it offering horse time, ride, Q&A etc. for 5$. We've taken steps to fix this. But if you would like something like that it would be through the Ranch directly and as our time allows. Thank you for taking the time to read everything as well.
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$30
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99%
(35)
Twisted River
4 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Scottsville, KY
A recent addition to our already spacious and secluded bed and breakfast. A tremendous wooded area with trails, woods, water and an awesome camping/fire pit area! If you enjoy watching the stars after a delicious, over the campfire cooked meal, you'll love the sights, sounds and smells of backwoods Kentucky. The land is bordered by a winding, twisting river that is ample enough for bathing, boating and/or fishing that seems to go on for days. Idea for overnight stays, weekend getaways or family or group gatherings.Learn more about this land:A long flowing log trail that travels through gorgeous woods and time then temporarily halts at the centerpiece campsite for fire, food and laughs. Space around a stone framed fire pit for up to 5 tents to enjoy peace or family at the same time. Off you continue along a groomed 4 wheel trail that guides you past our deer plot, beaver workings, stretches of wild low lands and a refreshing creek for swimming, fishing, boating, you name it! The main camp site is about a :15 minute hike off the main road but close enough to receive support if required.
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$20
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(6)
Waterfront Cabins and Camp Haven
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Owensboro, KY
Welcome to Camp Safe Haven, your Family Oasis since 2005! Nestled just 11 miles west of Owensboro, KY, our property offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Discover our Waterfront Cabins and Tent Sites, where nature's serenity meets pretty water and nurturing hills. Indulge in our cozy cabins, either our poolside cabin in our campgrounds or our cabin in the woods, featuring scenic water views and nestled amidst the woods. Or, pitch your tent at one of our seven Tent Sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature day or night.
Relax and unwind by taking a dip in our above-ground swimming pool or lounging on the poolside deck. Explore our beautiful trails winding through the property, offering encounters with the beauty of nature at every turn.
At Camp Safe Haven, our mission is to nurture nature and secure serenity for all our guests. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make yourself at home as you embark on a memorable getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments
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$40
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100%
(125)
On the back of the farm
2 sites · Tents100 acres · Glasgow, KY
This farm has been in my family for 3 generations, the Road is named after my great grandparents.
Sitting right on Barren River Lake we are at the end of a dead end chip sealed road.
Come join us for a few nights and share in the little piece of suclusion that we call home.
We look forward to seeing you.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent in the back of our 60 acre farm and stay completely secluded from people. You will drive 2 miles down a chip sealed road and then almost a mile down a dirt road past where the public road ends. Stay as connected or as disconnected as you want. Our farm offers the perfect escape from the day to day race of life. If you want to get away come spend a few days with us!!! We only allow booking of one camp site at time to ensure your privacy. Upon arrival there are 2 sites to pick from(see map in photos section). Camp firewood available for purchase at the barn on your way in. Signs are in place to take you to camp sites from the address that you will receive upon booking. Can't wait for you to come spend a couple nights with us!
We encourage our guests to check out the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife page and the Barren River Lake Corp of Engineers page to know the local boating and fishing rules for Barren River lake during your visit
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$25
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100%
(106)
MoonLight Grove Farm
2 sites · Tents12 acres · Battletown, KY
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.
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$35
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100%
(15)
The Bee Happy Campground
11 sites · RVs15 acres · Bee Spring, KY
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.
8 sites have water and electric (no sewer hookup).
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.
Dump station
Playground (swings, slide, climbing dome)
Firewood bundles for purchase $5
No bathhouse.
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.
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$33
/ night
Booked 2 times
Nest And Rest In Songbird Woods
1 site · Lodging1 acre · Leopold, IN
Nest in the Songbird: nestled in the peaceful heart of the Hoosier National Forest.
Treat yourself to retreat and get away to this secluded piece of heaven on earth snugged into the national forest in a rural area. Enjoy peace, and quiet as you glamp in the Songbird, a classic 1979 camper.
Being in the Hoosier National Forest, we are situated in a recreational region that features many outdoor activities and offerings for nature lovers to explore and enjoy. Plentiful adventures await you!
The Hoosier National Forest features many outdoor activities and offerings. Pick Perry says, "From the hiking and camping in the nearly 60,000 acres of Hoosier National Forest to biking and taking in the foliage on the Ohio River Scenic Byway, the great outdoors offers four seasons of fun.
We are a very short walk from the Oriole Trailhead of the Hoosier National Forest. Enjoy hiking the nearby National Forest Trails!
Enjoy the Songbird as a launchpad into Perry County (and nearby counties) recreational offerings!
Hiking and Horseback Riding:
With 84 miles trails to explore, hiking is one of the most popular activities at the Hoosier National Forest throughout the year. Group hikes are frequently scheduled by the Perry County Parks & Recreation and are open to visitors.
50 miles of the Hoosier National Forest trails are open to horseback riding. Most notably, the German Ridge, Mogan Ridge, and Oriole trails wind through tall pines and include stream crossings and scenic views.
Swimming:
Sand beaches welcome swimmers at Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area and German Ridge Recreation Area within the Hoosier National Forest.
Biking:
The rolling hills of Perry County are a bicyclist’s dream because the landscape is both challenging and picturesque. Perry County offers eight different biking routes which wind through the county. Routes range from 2o miles to 85 miles in distance.
Boating:
You’ll never find the Ohio River crowded. Boaters have thousands of acres of water on which to boat, ski, canoe, fish, and swim. Plus, there are plenty of places to pull up a boat for a picnic or camping.
Kayaking and Canoeing:
You can enjoy the five lakes at the Hoosier National Forest which are Tipsaw, Celina, Indian, Rainbow, and Saddle. Kayak or Canoe the Blue River in nearby Milltown, Indiana.
Fishing:
Fishing: With access to over 18,000 acres of water, Perry County is an angler’s year-round fishing paradise. Try your luck for bass, crappie, bluegill, sauger, catfish, or striped bass.
Some of Perry County’s best fishing embayment's are: Oil Creek, Poison Creek, Bear Creek and Deer Creek. Oil, Poison and Deer all can be accessed from the Ohio River, and anglers can make their way a number of miles up the meandering streams for fishing in areas with excellent structure.
The Hoosier National Forest also has plenty of fishing opportunities. This includes four good fishing lakes – Tipsaw, Indian-Celina, and Saddle. All four are stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear and catfish, and are rarely crowded. All four lakes have boat ramps and no gasoline motors are permitted, but electric trolling motors can be used.
Caving:
Explore the vast cave systems in Indiana, from the 7th largest cave in the US to the longest subterranean river. Find out the history, features, and tours of each cave, and how to visit them in southern Indiana. Explore these 4 Amazing nearby Underground Marvels: Indiana Caverns, Marengo Cave, Squire Boone Caverns, and Wyanadotte Cave,
Local adventures and attractions:
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari |Santa Claus
Indiana Uplands Wine Trail
Hoosier National Forest for hiking, swimming, fishing | Lake Tipsaw, Celina Lake, Saddle Lake
Eagles Wings Zipline |
Lincoln Amphitheatre | Santa Claus
Marengo Cave | Marengo
Bluespring Caverns Park
Squire Boone Caverns
Indiana Caverns
Cave Country Canoes | Milltown
Wilstem Guest Ranch
Want to treat yourself on retreat?
Celebrating a special occasion? Indulge at the eclectic restaurants while sipping on a glass of your favorite red or white from one of the local wineries makes for a memorable treat." Wineries Perry County is home to two wineries, Winzerwald Winery and Blue Heron Winery. Enjoy wine tastings while overlooking picturesque views of the Ohio River or rolling landscape.
Where You will Rest:
Our Songbird vintage camper has a futon with topper that can sleep 2
The dinette makes a bed for one adult, young adult or 2 small children. There are 2 bunks (the top bunk for kids) (the bottom bunk for kids or small adults).
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$77
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95%
(30)
HOBA farm riverfront property
5 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Cloverport, KY
Learn more about this land:
At HOBA Farm we have 13 acres of wooded river front property. We also have a large lake with kayaks and paddlebaords available! There are plenty of cute animals to visit. Near by there are plenty of hiking trails, caves, beautiful parks, and boat launches. We have plenty of room to set up tents and hammocks in a variety of locations. Its very shady down by the river too! Most of our property is natural and full of wild flowers all summer.
This is primitive camping only. We have a portapotty on site but currently do not have running water or electric. Please be sure to bring your own drinking water.
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$20
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The best camping near Rough River Lake 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.
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