Discover Tranquility and Adventure at Holly Bay Campground in London, Kentucky

For Kentuckians eager to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of our state's natural landscapes, Holly Bay Campground in London, Kentucky, stands out as a premier destination. Consistently praised for its stunning setting and well-maintained facilities, this campground offers a fantastic retreat for individuals, couples, and families alike. As local residents, we're fortunate to have such a highly-rated and accessible outdoor haven right here in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Whether your ideal getaway involves serene lake views, invigorating hikes, or simply unwinding by a campfire, Holly Bay Campground provides the perfect backdrop.

Nestled directly on the clear waters of Laurel River Lake, Holly Bay Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to an abundance of water-based and land-based activities. The campground is renowned for its spacious, wooded sites that offer a sense of seclusion while still providing convenient access to amenities. It's a testament to the dedication of the staff and the beauty of the surrounding environment that visitors frequently return, some for over 30 years, considering it their "favorite place to camp."

In the following sections, we will delve into every aspect of Holly Bay Campground, from its strategic location and easy accessibility to the comprehensive range of services and features that contribute to its high acclaim. We'll also provide essential contact information and discuss why, from the perspective of a local Kentucky outdoor enthusiast, Holly Bay Campground is an exceptionally suitable choice for your next adventure. Prepare to discover why this spot is considered a "fantastic campground" and a true gem within our state's natural treasures.

Holly Bay Campground is ideally situated at 395 Laurel Lk Rd, London, KY 40744, USA. This prime location places it deep within the scenic Daniel Boone National Forest, directly on the western side of Laurel River Lake. For Kentucky residents, this means direct access to one of the state's most beautiful and popular recreational lakes, offering unparalleled opportunities for water-based activities and forest exploration.

Accessibility to Holly Bay Campground is generally convenient, making it a manageable drive for many Kentuckians. From London, Kentucky, campers can typically take US-25 S (South Laurel Road) for about 5 miles, then turn left onto Laurel Lake Road (KY-1956) and follow the well-signposted route directly to the campground. For those traveling on I-75, taking Exit 38 and then heading west on KY 192 for about 14.2 miles, followed by a left turn onto KY 1193 for approximately 3 miles, will also lead you to the entrance. The roads are generally well-maintained, accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes, with many sites able to handle vehicles between 20 and 90 feet.

The proximity to London, a larger town, is a significant advantage. While the campground offers a genuine escape into nature, essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and various dining options are within a reasonable 20-minute drive. This balance of secluded natural beauty with convenient access to town amenities allows campers to easily restock supplies or enjoy a meal out if desired. Furthermore, being located within the Daniel Boone National Forest means immediate access to numerous hiking trails and the vast wilderness, making the journey to and from the campground part of the overall outdoor experience. The ease of access ensures that your Kentucky getaway begins the moment you hit the road, allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in the beauty of our state's wilderness.

Services Offered:

Campsites: Holly Bay Campground offers a total of 89 campsites, including 19 dedicated tent-only sites and 70 sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
RV Hookups: 70 sites are equipped with electric and water hookups, providing convenience for RV and trailer campers. Sewer hookups are also available at some sites.
Restrooms and Showers: The campground features full-service bathhouses with flush toilets and showers. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness and quality of these facilities.
Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available from faucets located throughout the campground.
Dump Station: A convenient RV dump station is available for campers at the campground entrance.
Boat Ramp: There is a campground-only boat ramp providing direct access to Laurel River Lake, making it easy to launch boats.
Fish Cleaning Station: A dedicated fish cleaning station is provided for anglers.
Trash Dumpsters: Trash disposal is made easy with centrally located dumpsters.
Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are often on-site, providing assistance and ensuring the campground runs smoothly.
Reservations: Campsites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov, with some walk-in tent sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Features / Highlights:

Direct Lake Access: A key highlight is its location directly on Laurel River Lake, known for its clear waters. This offers prime opportunities for boating, fishing (bass, trout, walleye), swimming, windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing.
Spacious and Secluded Sites: Reviews consistently praise the "well maintained large sites" with "lots of space between sites" and "foliage around most sites," providing privacy and a natural feel. Many sites are described as "secluded."
Mature Trees and Shade: The campground is characterized by "mature trees provide shade and cover," offering a comfortable environment, especially during warmer months.
Clean Facilities: The "super clean bathrooms and good showers" are frequently highlighted by campers, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.
Proximity to Holly Bay Marina: The campground is "right next to Holly Bay Marina," which is a year-round, full-service marina offering boat and slip rentals, as well as a store with supplies, bait, and gas.
Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground, including the Holly Bay Marina Trail and sections of the Sheltowee Trace Trail, allowing for exploration of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Family-Friendly Environment: With ample room for children to ride bicycles and a variety of activities, it's a "great place to bring the kids."
Beautiful Views: Many sites offer "great views" of Laurel River Lake, enhancing the natural beauty of the camping experience.
Well-Maintained Grounds: Staff are noted for keeping sites "blown to remove leaves before your visit" and overall cleanliness, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a campground managed under the U.S. Forest Service within the Daniel Boone National Forest, Holly Bay Campground operates with standardized fees and specific discount policies rather than traditional, fluctuating promotions. For Kentucky residents planning a visit, understanding these established offerings is key:

Interagency Senior/Access Passes: Holders of an America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass are eligible for a 50% discount on single campsites. This discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not to any additional fees or campsites occupied by others in the party.
Standardized Fees: Fees for single drive-in sites typically range around $46/night, while single walk-in tent sites are around $32/night. Double sites have higher rates. While not a "promotion," these are the consistent, publicly available rates that provide value for the amenities and location.
Off-Peak Season: The campground is generally open from mid-April to the end of October. While direct discounts aren't typically advertised for off-peak times, visiting outside of peak summer weekends can mean more site availability and a potentially quieter experience for the standard fee.
Value of Amenities: The proximity to Laurel River Lake, the full-service bathhouses, and the availability of electric and water hookups on many sites represent inherent value propositions that are consistent features of the campground.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current fees, availability, or to confirm any eligibility for passes or discounts, prospective campers are highly encouraged to visit Recreation.gov or contact the London Ranger District Office directly. This will ensure you have the precise details needed to plan your camping trip to Holly Bay Campground.

Contact Information:

Address: 395 Laurel Lk Rd, London, KY 40744, USA

Phone for London Ranger District Office (General Inquiries): (606) 864-4163 or (859) 428-7706

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use Recreation.gov. For specific inquiries about the campground's current conditions, rules, or if you need to speak with a park ranger, calling the London Ranger District Office is the best method.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Kentuckians, Holly Bay Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its appeal to locals stems from a powerful combination of its prime location, comprehensive amenities, and consistent reputation for quality and cleanliness.

Firstly, its strategic placement directly on Laurel River Lake within the Daniel Boone National Forest offers unparalleled access to some of Kentucky's most beautiful natural resources. For those living in Kentucky, this means a convenient escape to clear waters for boating, fishing, and swimming, alongside extensive forested areas for hiking and exploration, all within a reasonable driving distance from many parts of the state. This accessibility allows for easy weekend getaways or longer family vacations without the hassle of significant travel.

Secondly, the array of services and features available at Holly Bay Campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences. With electric and water hookups for RVs, spacious and secluded sites for both RVs and tents, and impeccably clean bathhouses with hot showers, the campground provides a comfortable experience for even those who prefer a few more amenities while still enjoying the outdoors. The on-site boat ramp, fish cleaning station, and proximity to Holly Bay Marina add immense value for water enthusiasts, making it easy to enjoy Laurel River Lake to its fullest.

Finally, the consistent positive feedback from visitors underscores the excellent management and friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming and well-maintained environment. Knowing that the facilities are clean, the sites are well-kept, and the staff are helpful builds confidence and encourages repeat visits. For Kentuckians seeking a reliable, beautiful, and amenity-rich camping destination that genuinely enhances their outdoor experience, Holly Bay Campground stands out as an ideal choice right here in our beloved Bluegrass State. It truly offers a serene escape combined with ample opportunities for adventure, making it a perfect fit for local families and outdoor enthusiasts.