Nolin Lake campgrounds accommodate various camping preferences from April through October with water levels influencing site conditions throughout the season. Many campgrounds maintain oak-hickory forest cover providing partial to full shade depending on site selection. Several campsites feature limestone-based shorelines allowing direct water access during normal lake levels.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from camp: Moutardier Campground offers a two-mile hiking option called Shady Creek Trail right from the campground. "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 at one part," notes a visitor.
Fishing from shore or boat: Multiple access points for both shoreline and boat fishing exist around Nolin Lake. "Moutardier Campground is a fisherman's paradise. It is located on Nolin River Lake," shares one camper. Many sites have dedicated filet tables near the water's edge for cleaning catches.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lake environment supports diverse bird populations visible from campsites. "We kayaked around the lake which was very enjoyable - saw ducks, and birds such as a grey heron," mentions one reviewer. Early mornings at Wax Campground provide opportunities to observe woodland species, with one camper reporting seeing "a trip of Redheaded Woodpeckers playing as well as a mama Northern Flicker feeding her babies."
What campers like
Halloween festivities: Fall camping brings special events at some locations. "Family friendly Halloween fun. Has a decorating contest with trick or treat in the campground," shares a reviewer about Dog Creek Campground. The organized activities provide a safe environment for children during the October season.
Lake access for swimming: The water temperature remains comfortable through most of the season. "The water was very warm. Loved paddle boarding in the early morning before the boat traffic got going," notes a visitor to Wax Campground. Sites with direct water access allow for spontaneous swimming and water play without needing to pack up gear.
Local dining options: Small restaurants near campgrounds offer authentic regional food. "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 one camper. Several reviews note these establishments as good alternatives when campers don't want to cook.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Campgrounds near tracks experience regular train passages. At Grand Ole RV Resort, "Trains rolling by at 3 am is not how I like to spend my night," reports one visitor. Position your site away from track-facing boundaries when possible.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can change campsite conditions substantially. "The water was up high so it made it an amazing waterfront campsite," notes a camper at Wax Campground, indicating that timing affects how close water access will be from sites.
Limited cell coverage: Service varies significantly between carriers and campground locations. "We had cell service (Verizon)" mentions one camper at Moutardier, while others report spotty connections with other carriers. Download maps and information before arrival if connectivity is important.
