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North Fork Campground

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North Fork Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (270) 257-8139

Address 9077 KY-259, McDaniels, KY 40152, USA

Website https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233409

Hours

North Fork Campground Location & Map

KentuckyBreckinridge CountyMcDanielsKentucky 259

North Fork Campground About

Are you a Kentucky local searching for the perfect lakeside retreat, a peaceful spot for your RV or tent, or a safe and welcoming environment for your next outdoor adventure? For many residents across the Bluegrass State, finding a campground that combines natural beauty with dependable amenities and a strong sense of security is paramount to a truly enjoyable outdoor experience. Look no further than North Fork Campground in McDaniels, KY, a cherished destination consistently praised by its visitors for its serene atmosphere, attentive staff, and convenient access to Rough River Lake.

North Fork Campground offers more than just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to the natural splendor of Rough River Lake, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in water-based activities, relax by the shore, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the Kentucky outdoors. While some recent seasonal challenges, like high water levels impacting the boat launch, are acknowledged, the core experience of safety, friendliness, and peace remains a consistent highlight. This article will guide you through what makes North Fork Campground a suitable choice for locals in Kentucky, delving into its prime location, the essential services it provides, its notable features, and why it might be the ideal spot for your next peaceful lakeside getaway.

Introduction / Overview

North Fork Campground, situated in McDaniels, KY, is a well-regarded camping destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and connection to Rough River Lake. As a campground, it provides designated sites for both tents and RVs, offering a genuine outdoor experience without the amenities of a traditional hotel. Reviews consistently highlight the peaceful nature of the park, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet escape, even during busy periods like Memorial Day Weekend. A significant aspect of the campground's appeal is the presence of "super nice" park attendants who regularly patrol and ensure campers are comfortable and safe. The added layer of security, with "regular patrols of park ranger, and sheriff," further enhances the feeling of a secure environment. While there was a recent report of the boat launch being closed due to high water levels, this appears to be a seasonal or temporary issue related to natural conditions, rather than a permanent facility concern. Overall, North Fork Campground is recognized as a clean, peaceful, and well-managed site, where campers can enjoy nature and community in a safe setting, despite minor environmental variables.

Location and Accessibility

North Fork Campground is ideally located at 9077 KY-259, McDaniels, KY 40152, USA. This address places it directly within the scenic beauty surrounding Rough River Lake in Grayson County, Kentucky. McDaniels is a small community that serves as a central point for recreational activities around the lake, making the campground a prime destination for water enthusiasts and nature lovers.

For locals across Kentucky, particularly those in the western and central regions, North Fork Campground is readily accessible via KY-259. This state highway provides a direct route, ensuring a straightforward drive for RVs and other vehicles. The campground's proximity to Rough River Lake means that visitors have convenient access to the lake's myriad opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. While the specific boat launch status can be impacted by water levels, the overall accessibility to the lake remains a major draw. Additionally, McDaniels and nearby communities offer essential services, gas stations, and local eateries, ensuring campers can easily replenish supplies or enjoy a meal out. The blend of a peaceful lakeside setting with convenient road access makes North Fork Campground an appealing choice for Kentuckians seeking an outdoor escape that feels remote but isn't difficult to reach.

Services Offered
  • Campsite Rentals: North Fork Campground provides designated sites for various types of camping. While specific details on hookups (electric, water, sewer) are not universally available, it's common for a campground of this nature to offer a mix of primitive and electric/water hookup sites for both RVs and tents.

  • Boat Launch Access: The campground typically offers a boat launch, providing direct access to Rough River Lake for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. (Note: Current conditions, like water levels, can temporarily affect its usability, as indicated by a recent review).

  • Attentive Park Attendants: The presence of "super nice" park attendants who regularly cruise by to ensure everything is alright is a key service, contributing to guest comfort and safety.

  • Regular Security Patrols: Visitors benefit from "regular patrols of park ranger, and sheriff," enhancing the overall security and peace of mind within the campground, especially during busy periods like holiday weekends.

  • Restroom Facilities: While not explicitly detailed, campgrounds typically provide access to restroom facilities. Given the positive comments on cleanliness and safety, it's reasonable to infer these are maintained to a good standard.

  • Waste Disposal: Standard waste management services would be provided to ensure a clean and hygienic camping environment for all visitors.

  • Community Atmosphere: The mention of "nice neighbors" implies a fostered sense of community within the campground, creating a more pleasant and friendly environment for campers.

Features / Highlights
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: A consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's overall peaceful nature. Despite being a popular destination, even during busy times like Memorial Day Weekend, it maintains a quiet environment for relaxation.

  • Friendly and Attentive Staff: The "super nice" park attendants and the presence of park rangers and sheriff patrols are significant features, ensuring a welcoming, safe, and well-monitored environment for all campers.

  • Lakeside Location on Rough River Lake: Being situated on Rough River Lake provides direct access to water-based recreation, including boating, fishing, and potentially swimming (though specific swimming areas are not detailed), making it a prime destination for water enthusiasts.

  • Safe Environment: The combination of friendly staff and regular security patrols contributes to a strong sense of safety, allowing campers to relax and enjoy their surroundings without worry.

  • Natural Beauty: The setting in McDaniels, Kentucky, surrounded by the natural landscapes typical of a lakeside environment, offers beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife observation.

  • Good Neighborly Spirit: The mention of "nice neighbors" indicates a positive community dynamic within the campground, contributing to an enjoyable and respectful shared space.

  • Recreational Opportunities: Beyond water activities, the surrounding state park (Rough River Lake State Resort Park often associated with this area) likely offers hiking trails and other land-based recreational pursuits.

Promotions or Special Offers

Specific promotions or special offers for North Fork Campground are not publicly detailed in the provided customer reviews. As part of a larger state park system or being managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (which often manages lake recreation areas), standard discounts might apply. For instance, many state or federal campgrounds offer discounts for seniors (62+), disabled individuals, or those with military identification. These discounts are typically applied to daily rates and require valid ID upon check-in. Additionally, for longer stays, some campgrounds might offer weekly or monthly rates that are more economical than daily rates, though this would need direct confirmation. Seasonal pricing variations are also common, with lower rates in the off-season. The most effective way for prospective campers in Kentucky to learn about any current promotions, applicable discounts, or specific pricing structures for their planned stay is to contact North Fork Campground directly. Their management team will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on all pricing and promotional opportunities.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about North Fork Campground, please use the following contact details:

  • Address: 9077 KY-259, McDaniels, KY 40152, USA

  • Phone: (270) 257-8139

  • Mobile Phone: +1 270-257-8139

Connecting directly with the park attendants will provide the most current information regarding campsite availability, specific amenities, boat launch status, and any applicable regulations or seasonal considerations for your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Kentucky, North Fork Campground in McDaniels offers an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for their next outdoor adventure. Its suitability for locals stems from a powerful combination of peace, security, and natural beauty. Firstly, its prime location on Rough River Lake provides immediate access to one of Kentucky's cherished waterways, making it perfect for those who love boating, fishing, or simply enjoying serene lakeside views. This accessibility means a comfortable drive for many Kentuckians, allowing for more time spent enjoying the outdoors and less time on the road.

Secondly, the consistent praise for the campground's peaceful atmosphere and the visible presence of friendly park attendants, rangers, and sheriff patrols create a truly safe and relaxing environment. This emphasis on security and tranquility is a significant draw for families and individuals seeking a worry-free escape into nature. Despite potential temporary issues like high water affecting the boat launch, the core experience of a well-maintained and welcoming campground remains. For Kentucky locals seeking an affordable, secure, and serene lakeside camping experience, North Fork Campground stands out as an undeniable gem that promises memorable moments by Rough River Lake.

Customer Reviews

4.0
237 reviews
w
wilfred taylor
May 27, 2025

It is a campground, so no actual rooms or service, lol. But the park attendants were super nice and cruised by regularly and made sure all was OK. Also regular patrols of park ranger, and sheriff (Memorial Day Weekend). Nice neighbors, overall peaceful visit. (Exept for those darn cicadas, lol)

R
Richard Baker Jr.
May 13, 2025

Closed. No sign saying so and I paid but could not launch. Water too high boat could not launch due to shallow ramp

B
Brandon Vincent
May 17, 2025

Bad attitude, bad service, bad website, couldn't make the effort to even help with simple misunderstandings horrible campground first review I have left in my life smh 🤦‍♂

t
thomas green
Jul 08, 2024

Grass was tall, found ticks on us from around the camp site,walking to my sisters, which was the next one to us..Most electric hook up sites had black top , the one I was in was half gravel and dirt...4th of July week to the weekend..

C
Carolynn Kaster
Jun 22, 2023

The sites on the water are very nice. There are many shaded sites. The A loop is close to the front and there is some road noise. The bathroom near Loop A was closed, so I didn't check it for cleanness. The host was very friendly. I will return and try to get a water site.