Rough River Lake in Kentucky offers 5,100 surface acres of water across Breckinridge, Grayson, and Hardin Counties. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 135 feet at the dam. Summer temperatures typically average 85-95°F with humidity levels above 70%. Several campgrounds around the lake provide options for RV camping with varying amenities depending on location and proximity to the water.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rough River Lake supports populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. At Dog Creek Campground, anglers mention the convenient access. "Awesome campground. Great views of the lake from sites... Lake is perfect for swimming, boating, or kayaking," notes Ellen L.
Hiking trails: Several primitive trails exist around the lake shoreline. The Wax - Nolin River Lake area nearby offers additional hiking opportunities. "When I went to Rec Gov to reserve a site it said that the campground was full, but when I arrived a bunch of the sites were empty. The Corp closes whole loops I was told so they don't have to 'count' them," notes Shelly S. about trail access.
Water recreation: Kayaking, swimming, and boating are popular activities. Boat ramps available at multiple access points. "The shore by the A sites is rocky under the water," according to visitor reports, so beach areas vary considerably between locations.
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites feature direct water visibility or access. "This campsite offered electric/water hookup, fire pit, picnic table, filet table, bathrooms, and showers. There were boat ramps, a marina nearby to rent boats, and also offered a playground," explains a reviewer at Moutardier Campground.
Catch and release fishing: Small ponds supplement lake fishing at some locations. At Singing Hills RV Park And Campground, "The little catch-and-release pond is well-stocked and there is a catfish pay lake across the street, so our boys had plenty of fishing to keep them busy," notes Sarah.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities include herons, woodpeckers, and waterfowl. "We could see a trip of Redheaded Woodpeckers playing as well as a mama Northern Flicker feeding her babies. We even saw a giant Pileated Woodpecker! There were also herons, mourning doves, ravens, and more," reports one camper about the regional wildlife.
What you should know
Limited shade: Many RV sites around Rough River Lake lack significant tree cover. At Cave Country RV Campground, a camper notes: "Not much shade. Close to Mammoth Caves."
Variable site terrain: Pad levelness varies significantly between locations. "Sites were well spaced and spacious with a fire ring and table," reports one visitor, while others caution about sites requiring substantial leveling.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly on the lake. "We pulled in later than we hoped to, because of stormy weather. When we arrived at 815pm, the storm was raging," recounts Sheri K. about her camping experience in the area.
Cell service: Coverage varies by location and provider. "We had cell service (Verizon)," reports one camper, though some areas experience limited connectivity, particularly in low-lying areas.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Some campgrounds offer special October events. "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," explains Laura O. at Diamond Caverns RV & Golf Resort.
Multiple playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly recreation areas. "3 playgrounds with safe clean equipment. Plenty of lake view sites and positioned to provide a semi private experience," notes a visitor.
Tent site options: Families with mixed equipment find accommodation at most parks. "Absolutely loved tent camping here! Several modern bath houses with showers, toilets and sinks. Tent sites are spacious enough for multiple tents/canopies to be set up."
Water safety: Beach areas vary in suitability for young swimmers. Some feature rocky bottoms while others offer gradual entry points. "Great for boaters as there is a nice sand bank to pull your boat up to," mentions one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds may present challenges. The routes leading to several campgrounds include narrow roads with sharp turns. "Not Big Rig Friendly. The road in/out is very narrow, very tight and not easily navigated with a 40' 5th wheel," cautions Jennifer about certain approaches.
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking. At Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, "Many of the other Spots were on hills and right on top of each other. Driving in and out was a bit challenging mainly because a lot of people parked their vehicles/golf carts at the edge of the road or partly on it."
Utility connections: Water hookups sometimes present placement challenges. "Our water hookup was weird... it ended up under our back bumper were we had to crawl under to connect," reports one RVer describing their experience at a regional campground.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close certain loops during off-peak periods while others remain open year-round. "The camping season typically runs May through September or October for most parks," though availability varies by location.
