Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park sits 49 miles southwest of Central City, Kentucky at approximately 600 feet elevation in the western coal fields region. The park covers over 800 acres with varied terrain including forested hills and a 56-acre lake. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F while summer temperatures average 65-90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Disc golf at Cave Creek Recreation Area: Located at Rough River Lake, the course offers wooded fairways and lake views. "There is a disc golf course in the area so if you're in one of the sites near it you might want to keep your head down," notes one Cave Creek visitor.
Fishing at Vastwood County Park: The lake permits non-motorized boats for fishing access with convenient dock facilities. "Very pretty city park with wide sites though some are close together. Nice lake, trails, swimming area," reports a Vastwood County Park camper.
Golfing near Bowling Green KOA: Access an 18-hole course within 15 minutes of the campground. "This KOA has a pool, fishing, putt putt, dump station, general store, cabins, a little run down restroom/bath houses, kids play scape, large chess board, and a dog park," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Vastwood offers a designated swimming area with gradual entry points suitable for various skill levels. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful lakeside campsites. Great for small groups or individuals."
Hiking trail networks: Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park features multiple interconnected trails of varying difficulty. "I love this park! Camping, cabins, hiking, horseback, swimming, and even mini golf. There are numerous trails, and a plethora of wildlife," a camper shared.
Photography opportunities: Seasonal photography contests draw visitors to Pennyrile. "I've gone to Pennyroyal for the fall photography contest. I've also been there a few springs for the spring photography contest," reports one regular visitor.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many parks in the region have significant slope issues requiring extra equipment. "The sites are hard to back in with a camper, we had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together," notes a Bowling Green KOA visitor.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms occur frequently, and spring brings heavy rainfall that can affect trail conditions. "In June, it's hot as heck and 100% humidity here," warns one Cave Creek camper.
Reservation requirements: Peak season (May-September) often fills completely, especially holiday weekends. "Reserve ahead if you want anything close to the water and it's a good chance that this is one of those campgrounds that is booked for the season," advises a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access timing: Arrive early for best swimming spots during summer months. "The beach is free to public so very crowded and some elements are not family friendly," notes a Bowling Green KOA reviewer.
Kid-friendly amenities: Spring Creek Campground offers creek access for safe water play. "Creek is awesome. No shade. Great staff, clean bathrooms," reports a visitor.
Affordable activities: Many parks offer low-cost recreation options. "They have one of the cleanest parks! This is a Corp of Engineers reservoir that is well maintained. We stay in various places all over the park and the best thing about this is there are no fees to access the public areas of the dam to fish or lake! Our children love to camp and play around the lake!" shares a Rough River Dam visitor.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Many sites require longer-than-standard power cords due to hookup placement. "We had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose," notes one camper about regional sites.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "Cave Creek Campground at Rough River Lake is off a single and a half country road. If your pulling a trailer or RV take your time, curvy road," warns an experienced camper.
Alternative site options: For more level terrain, consider equestrian areas if available. "When I talked to the campground host, he was very pleasant and explained that you do not have to have a horse to camp in the equestrian sites. Those sites are level pull-through sites."
