Rough River Lake campsites span across multiple recreation areas in west-central Kentucky, with water levels fluctuating up to 20 feet seasonally. The lake's central location puts it within a 90-minute drive of Louisville, making it popular with weekend campers from April through October. Weather patterns can shift quickly, with summer afternoons often reaching 90°F while evenings cool significantly.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Cave Creek Recreation Area features a disc golf course near its basic camping area. "This camp site was very clean. There were very well maintened playgrounds for the children and lake activities were endless. There are very decent pontoon rates at the marina," notes Benjamin W.
Beach swimming options: While North Fork Recreation Area receives mixed reviews for its layout, it offers a "nice size beach on the other side of the road with a large shaded picnic area that looks like it used to be a campground, a good size parking lot and a large pavilion," according to Shelly S.
Kayaking routes: Moutardier Campground provides excellent kayaking access. "We kayaked around the lake which was very enjoyable - saw ducks, and birds such as a grey heron. Also lots of fish jumping," shares Pawsfuradventure T. The campground also features a two-mile hiking trail called Shady Creek Trail.
Bank fishing spots: Several campgrounds offer dedicated fishing areas. "Love this campground. Have not found a bad spot yet. Family and pet friendly," reports Laura O. about bank fishing opportunities at Moutardier Campground.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Nolin Lake State Park Campground offers secluded waterfront camping. "Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it! Water front sites in cove so not a lot of boat traffic. Quiet park with great gravel spots," says Laura O.
Wooded tent sites: Nolin Lake State Park provides pine forest camping areas. "The tent campground has spacious, level sites. The sites are located in a grove of pine trees, which makes for well shaded sites with a pleasant surface of soft pine straw to pitch your tents," explains Christina M.
Helpful camp hosts: Cave Creek - Rough River Lake receives praise for staff assistance. "The hosts were so nice, they called us before checking in to make sure we knew how to get there and to suggest a different site. They had a massive firewood bundle for $5.00!" shares Deborah C.
Wildlife viewing: Campers report diverse wildlife encounters. "We enjoyed the water and the interesting wild life. Cornelius got bit by a turtle when he got a little too close and we saw a turkey. Plus there are a multitude of vultures," notes Shelly S. about Wax Campground.
What you should know
Narrow access roads: Many campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The road in/out is very narrow, very tight and not easily navigated with a 40' 5th wheel," warns Jennifer about Wax - Nolin River Lake.
Unmanned gates: Some campground entrances operate without staff. "Don't expect anyone to greet you at the ranger station. It is unmanned. Sites have your parking pass clipped to the post," explains Faith J. about Wax Campground.
Site selection caution: Choose sites carefully based on equipment needs. "Be very careful about sites, many are extremely undeveloped and while we booked a 70' pull thru, it was actually down on the side of the hill with an almost 90° curve," notes Jennifer about Wax Campground.
Limited services: Most campgrounds lack nearby conveniences. "It is off the beaten path and you are about 30 min from a grocery store, so make sure you stock up before you go," advises Faith J.
Tips for camping with families
Tent camping with kids: Moutardier Campground provides excellent tent sites. "Absolutely loved tent camping here! Several modern bath houses with showers, toilets and sinks. Tent sites are spacious enough for multiple tents/canopy's to be set up," shares Laura O.
Playground access: Multiple playgrounds enhance family camping experiences. "Great for tents or trailers and everything in between. 3 playgrounds with safe clean equipment. Plant of lake view sites and positioned to provide a semi private experience," notes Laura O.
Halloween events: Seasonal camping includes special activities. "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 Laura O.
Beach activities: Children enjoy the sandy beach areas. "This camp site was very clean. There were very well maintened playgrounds for the children and lake activities were endless," mentions Benjamin W.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup reliability: Some sites experience power issues. "The only issue we have come across was that the electric service on our site kept tripping the breaker. Only running ac and a CPAP machine and the breaker would not hold," warns D.I. about North Fork Recreation Area.
Late check-in procedure: RV arrivals after hours require preparation. "We spent a few days at Wax while heading home... They have late check in and check out (5p) which is nice if you wanted to spend the morning on the lake or hiking," explains Faith J.
Site privacy considerations: Despite close quarters, site design creates privacy. "At first look even the empty campground appears congested and close together. But it's the long site entrances and the site itself all framed with synthetic timbers with white chat fill," describes Gary P. about Wax Campground.
Gravel pad quality: Site surfaces vary by campground. "Gravel, mostly flat, pads with lots of shade trees. Very quiet. Sits on Lake Nolan, which is huge," notes Faith J.
