Established Camping
Bee Rock Rec Area
Bee Rock Rec Area, near Somerset, Kentucky, is a fantastic place for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some peace and quiet. With tent and RV sites that are clean and well-maintained, it’s a great spot for camping along the river, where you can kick back and soak in the scenery.
This campground is known for its beautiful riverfront locations, perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Visitors rave about the hiking trails that lead to stunning views and waterfalls, making it a prime spot for outdoor adventures. One camper noted, “It was a beautiful location... with unique views and waterfalls.”
Amenities include picnic tables and fire rings at each site, allowing for cozy evenings around the campfire. While there are no showers or water hookups, the vault toilets and drinking water make it comfortable enough for a weekend getaway. As one reviewer put it, “Super relaxed staff and great scenery make for a pleasant camping experience.”
Bee Rock is also rich in history, with trails that take you past old structures and beautiful bridges. If you’re up for a little exercise, be prepared for some steps leading to the sites, but the effort is worth it for the tranquility and stunning night skies. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just looking to escape for a bit, Bee Rock Rec Area has plenty to offer.
Description
National Forest
In March 2019 a record flood devastated the campground, boat ramp, and trails in this area. Bee Rock Campground will remain closed until recreation facilities are safely restored. View Bee Rock Closure Order. To find other campgrounds nearby, contact the London Ranger District at 606-864-4163, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Campground facilities at nearby Laurel River Lake open on April 12.Bee Rock Campground, located on London Ranger District, has developed campsites on both sides of the Rockcastle River. The campground is a US Fee Area. The Laurel County side, with 9 sites, is open all year. The Pulaski County side, with 19 sites, is open from mid-April through mid-October. An overlook along Bee Rock Loop Trail provides a scenic view of the rocks and cliffs along Rockcastle River. Bee Rock Boat Rampprovides river access. The campground features Old Sublimity Bridge, a historic structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) in the late 1930s. The stone used in the abutments was quarried from the adjacent sandstone cliffs. The bridge has been restored for foot travel only. The name Bee Rock comes from a local legend which states that a large number of wild honeybees used to live in this area, using a hollow area under this cliff as their hive. Tired of the wild honeybees invading their hives, local beekeepers dynamited the rock, destroying the hive and causing honey to flow down the cliff into the Rockcastle River. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to Bee Rock Campground. Learn more... Bee Rock Campground Map Campfires are permitted in fire rings only. Make sure fires are out before retiring at night or when leaving your campsite. Parking is available at campsites, boat ramp and overflow parking area. Restrooms are accessible vault toilets. Drinking water is available except during winter months. No climbing or rappelling from cliffs, arches or other rock formations at Bee Rock Overlook. Low lying areas are prone to flooding, so be alert for flooding when driving, camping or crossing streams in this area. Swift currents and undertows can make swimming and wading very hazardous. View Bee Rock Campground Guide & Map (pdf) Nearby Trails: Bee Rock Loop Trail #529 Rockcastle Narrows Trail #503 Rockcastle Connector Trail #401A Sheltowee Trace Section 25
Location
Bee Rock Rec Area is located in Kentucky
Directions
From I-75 at London exit 38 (London), turn west on KY 192, go 18 miles to the bridge over Rockcastle River between Somerset and London.
Coordinates
37.02900009 N
84.31700035 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TPoor
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Lexington
- 1 hr 37 min from Knoxville
- 2 hrs 5 min from Morristown
- 2 hrs 8 min from Elizabethtown
