Camping sites around Nolin River Lake offer a mix of water and electric hookups along with lakeside access. Elevation in this region averages between 600-800 feet, with summer highs often reaching 85-95°F. Several parks stay open from May through September, with limited winter camping options since most facilities close during colder months.
What to do
Fish at Moutardier Campground: Located on Nolin River Lake, this campground draws fishing enthusiasts. "Moutardier Campground is a fisherman's paradise. It is located on Nolin River Lake. Our site was lakeside which was beautiful (Site D6)," notes one Moutardier visitor.
Kayak around the lake: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access for paddlers. "We kayaked around the lake which was very enjoyable - saw ducks, and birds such as a grey heron. Also lots of fish jumping," reports a Moutardier camper.
Hike nearby trails: Some campgrounds maintain short walking paths. "There is also a two mile hike that is in the campground called Shady Creek Trail. It looked like it had not been hiked in a while but it went through woods, small stream and had a cool rock formation," according to one review at Moutardier.
Visit local restaurants: Small eateries near camping areas provide local fare. "Right outside Moutardier Campground on Rt 2067 is Sherry's Red Roof restaurant (open Sunday! And local fare; catfish, ribs, spuds, fried appetizers and ice)," mentions a camper.
What campers like
Lake views: Most sites at Dog Creek Campground offer views of Nolin Lake. "Seems all sites have a lake view. Less than half full sun-Tuesday. Stayed at a006. Very close to beach," according to one recent visitor.
Quiet atmosphere: Even during busy periods, the area remains relatively peaceful. "We chose to camp in a primitive site and ended up right on the lake. We are here during the week so it's really nice and quiet!!" notes a camper at Dog Creek.
Halloween activities: Seasonal events make fall camping particularly appealing. "Family friendly Halloween fun. Has a decorating contest with trick or treat in the campground. Safe and clean with lots of restrooms and lake front sites," reports a Wax Campground visitor.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathrooms and grounds. "A wonderful campground with electric, water, dump station. Nolan Lake is beautiful. Campground extremely well maintained, quiet," notes one camper about Wax Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks. "Do not camp close to the railroad tracks. Loud horns in the middle of the night," warns a Cave Country RV Campground visitor.
Weather considerations: The region can experience severe storms. "The storm was raging. I had to wait for a lull to go to the office to get paperwork, then wait again to get back to the truck... Then the quarter + sized hail joined in," reports a camper at Singing Hills.
Campsite positioning: Sites vary significantly in terms of shade and access. "Site selection is all important at this campsite. Some have wonderful lake access, shade, and a bit of seclusion. Others no trees, no lake, in the middle of everyone," advises a Dog Creek camper.
Limited winter options: Most campgrounds close during colder months, though some remain open. "Open year round too!" notes one visitor about Singing Hills Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer fishing opportunities suitable for children. "The dog park was just a run area but fairly large with a covered seating area at one end and the pups loved using it," notes one visitor to Cave Country RV.
Book sites early: The most desirable family spots fill quickly, especially during summer. "Our site was lakeside which was beautiful (Site D6). This campsite offered electric/water hookup, fire pit, picnic table, filet table, bathrooms, and showers," reports a Moutardier camper.
Prepare for minimal shade: Many lakeside sites lack tree cover. "Lacking in restrooms and shade trees. Good for boaters as there is a nice sand bank to pull your boat up to," warns a Dog Creek visitor.
Check out playgrounds: Several campgrounds have play areas. "3 playgrounds with safe clean equipment. Plant of lake view sites and positioned to provide a semi private experience," reports one Singing Hills visitor.
Tips from RVers
Find level sites: Many RV pads require additional leveling. "Gravel, mostly flat, pads with lots of shade trees. Very quiet. Sits on Lake Nolan, which is huge," notes a Wax Campground visitor.
Plan for water connections: Some parks have unusual water hookup positions. "Our water hookup was weird…it ended up under our back bumper were we had to crawl under to connect," reports a Singing Hills camper.
Prepare for waste management: Not all RV parks offer full hookups. "Pros: 50 AMP, Water, Overlooking Nolin Lake. Cons: No sewer (dump station only), Limited cell service, No wifi," mentions a Diamond Caverns RV Resort visitor.
Consider camping loops carefully: Different areas within the same campground can offer varying experiences. "Section C has some of the nicer site, even one with a little lagoon perfect to launch your yaks from," advises a Dog Creek visitor.
