Great Meadows Campground

For Kentuckians who seek a true connection with the wilderness and prefer a more rustic, off-the-grid camping experience, Great Meadows Campground offers an appealing destination within the sprawling Daniel Boone National Forest. Unlike many commercial campgrounds, Great Meadows provides a back-to-basics approach to camping, focusing on natural beauty and tranquility rather than extensive amenities. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the simple pleasures of outdoor living take center stage.

Great Meadows Campground is a gem for those looking to immerse themselves in Kentucky’s vast natural landscapes without the typical campground fees or the need for reservations. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, it embodies the spirit of spontaneous adventure. Whether you're an avid angler drawn to a designated Kentucky Wild River, a hiker eager to explore extensive trails, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful escape under the stars, Great Meadows Campground provides a refreshing and authentic outdoor experience for locals.

Great Meadows Campground is located in McCreary County, Kentucky, identified by its general address as Kentucky 42647, USA. More specifically, it is situated off Rock Creek-Bell Farm Road (Forest Road #137) within the Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest. This location places it deep within one of Kentucky’s most significant natural treasures, a vast expanse of rugged terrain, lush forests, and scenic waterways.

While offering a remote and wild feel, Great Meadows Campground is accessible to those willing to navigate forest roads. From Whitley City, a common starting point, travelers typically head south on US 27, then turn onto KY 92, followed by KY 1363, and finally Forest Service Roads 564 and 137. This network of roads leads directly to the campground, though visitors should be prepared for typical forest road conditions. The gravel driveway to the sites is generally passable for most vehicles, including RVs up to 35 feet, provided they are not excessively low or overloaded.

Despite its primitive nature, the location offers proximity to key natural attractions. Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs adjacent to the campground's Raccoon Loop, offering excellent fishing opportunities. Nearby, campers can access sections of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail (Sections 37 and 38), Mark Branch Trail #635, and Gobblers Arch Trail #636, providing seemingly endless hiking possibilities. While there are no stores immediately next to the campground, the nearby communities, including Stearns and Whitley City, offer basic supplies, gas, and limited dining options, ensuring that essential needs can be met within a reasonable drive. This blend of wild seclusion and accessible nearby services makes Great Meadows a unique and appealing destination.

Great Meadows Campground focuses on providing essential services that support a primitive and authentic camping experience, aligning with its no-fee, first-come, first-served operation within a national forest.

• Primitive Camping Sites: The campground offers 18 primitive sites suitable for both tent and RV camping (RVs up to 35 feet). These sites generally include a cleared area for setting up camp.
• No-Fee Camping: One of the most attractive services is that camping at Great Meadows is free of charge, making it an exceptionally budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, eliminating the need for advance reservations. This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides accessible vault toilets, which are maintained to provide basic restroom facilities. Note that showers are generally not available.
• Drinking Water (Seasonal): Potable drinking water is available at the campground from mid-April through October. During the colder months (November to mid-April), water services are typically shut off due to the risk of freezing, so campers should plan to bring their own water during those times.
• Parking: Parking is available at each campsite, allowing campers to park their vehicles directly at their site.
• Fishing Pier: A notable amenity for anglers, the campground features a fishing pier, providing enhanced access to Rock Creek for trout fishing.

It is important for campers to be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no electric hookups, sewer connections, or dump stations available at Great Meadows. Campers should be ready to pack out all trash and waste.

Great Meadows Campground, while primitive, offers several compelling features and highlights that draw campers seeking a genuine outdoor experience in Kentucky.

• Free and First-Come, First-Served: The absence of fees and the first-come, first-served policy are major highlights, offering unparalleled flexibility and affordability for campers. This makes it an excellent option for last-minute trips or for those on a tight budget.
• Location on a Kentucky Wild River: Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs adjacent to the campground's Raccoon Loop. This provides a beautiful and pristine natural setting, as well as opportunities for excellent fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout, which are stocked year-round.
• Access to Extensive Trails: The campground offers direct access to a network of trails within the Daniel Boone National Forest, including sections of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. This makes it a perfect base for hikers, backpackers, and those who love to explore the wilderness on foot.
• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: Despite its accessibility, Great Meadows provides a tranquil and secluded camping environment. Campers often note the quiet surroundings, allowing for a true escape from everyday noise and a deeper connection with nature.
• Diverse Loops for Camping: The campground is divided into two areas: Deer Loop (open April 23 to October 31) and Raccoon Loop (open year-round), offering slightly different experiences and seasonal availability. The Raccoon Loop, nestled against Rock Creek, is particularly popular.
• Cleanliness and Upkeep: Despite being a primitive, no-fee campground, reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the sites and vault toilets, indicating that the forest service does a commendable job of upkeep.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting within the national forest means opportunities to observe local wildlife, including various bird species and creek critters like minks, beavers, and otters.

As a no-fee campground operated by the U.S. Forest Service within the Daniel Boone National Forest, Great Meadows Campground does not offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Its primary "offer" is its free access for camping, which is a significant benefit in itself for budget-conscious travelers.

However, it's important for campers to be aware of the following fee structure and potential ways to save on other federal recreation sites:

• No Camping Fee: Great Meadows Campground is a no-fee campground, meaning there is no charge for overnight stays. This is a continuous benefit, not a limited-time promotion.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, which means there are no booking fees or reservation charges.
• Interagency Passes (for other Federal sites): While Great Meadows itself is free, individuals who hold America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes (such as the Senior Pass or Access Pass) can receive discounts at other federal campgrounds and entrance fees at other national parks and federal recreation sites across the country. These passes do not apply to Great Meadows as there is no fee to discount.

For the most current information regarding any changes to its status (though unlikely for a no-fee primitive site), visitors can consult the Daniel Boone National Forest official website or contact the Stearns Ranger District Office. The consistent "no-fee" status is its ongoing appeal.

As a no-fee, first-come, first-served campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Great Meadows Campground does not typically have a direct phone line for reservations or immediate inquiries. Information is generally disseminated through the Daniel Boone National Forest's official channels.

• Address: Kentucky 42647, USA (more specifically, off Rock Creek-Bell Farm Road (Forest #137) in McCreary County, near Stearns).
• Nearest Ranger District Office: Stearns Ranger District Office
  • Address: 3320 US 27 North, Whitley City, KY 42653
  • Phone: (606) 376-5323
  • Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)

For the most up-to-date information on the campground's operating status (seasonal closures for water, etc.), directions, or general questions about recreating in Daniel Boone National Forest, contacting the Stearns Ranger District Office is the recommended approach. They can provide valuable insights to help you prepare for your primitive camping adventure at Great Meadows.

For Kentuckians, Great Meadows Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and authentic outdoor experience, especially for those who cherish true wilderness and seek an affordable escape. Its primary appeal for locals is its status as a no-fee, first-come, first-served primitive campground. This eliminates the need for costly reservations and allows for spontaneous trips, making it an ideal choice for residents seeking a quick, budget-friendly getaway into nature.

Located deep within the iconic Daniel Boone National Forest in McCreary County, it provides immediate access to some of Kentucky's most stunning natural landscapes. The presence of Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, offers unparalleled opportunities for trout fishing right at the campground, a significant draw for local anglers. Furthermore, the extensive network of hiking trails, including sections of the famous Sheltowee Trace, means that locals can easily embark on day hikes or longer backpacking trips from their basecamp.

The tranquil and secluded atmosphere, frequently praised by visitors, provides a much-needed respite from the demands of modern life. It's a place where Kentuckians can truly disconnect, enjoy the sounds of the forest, and reconnect with nature on a deeper level. Despite its primitive nature, the consistent feedback regarding clean sites and well-maintained vault toilets underscores that the Forest Service strives to provide a comfortable experience even without luxury amenities.

For Kentuckians who own RVs up to 35 feet or prefer traditional tent camping, Great Meadows accommodates both, making it versatile for various camping styles. It's a place where locals can immerse themselves in their state's rich natural heritage, enjoy outdoor pursuits, and experience the freedom of primitive camping without breaking the bank. Great Meadows Campground truly embodies the spirit of Kentucky's wild beauty, offering an accessible and authentic adventure for all residents.