Bee Rock Campground
4.4545 reviewsUS Forest Service/US Army Corps of Engineers Resource Managers Office KY-1193 London, KY 40744
Bee Rock Campground
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight use fees are $15 per single site and $20 per double site. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the pristine Rockcastle River in Daniel Boone National Forest, Bee Rock Campground beckons adventurers with its unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. This 25-site gem stretches across both riverbanks, offering two distinct camping experiences connected by the beautifully restored Old Sublimity Bridge. South of the river, tent campers find sanctuary beneath a canopy of mature hardwoods, where dappled sunlight filters through leaves and privacy abounds. Cross the historic footbridge to discover the north side's more open terrain, where RV travelers can bask in sunshine while still enjoying riverside serenity. Towering cliffs and ancient rock formations frame this riverside retreat, creating a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor escape.
Bee Rock Campground features both primitive and developed camping options. It is suitable for tent and small RV camping, with separate areas offering varying levels of privacy and accessibility.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the remnants of a bygone era at Bee Rock Campground. In the late 1800s, this scenic riverside locale bustled as a popular resort destination, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the healing waters and mountain air. While nature has reclaimed most traces of that Victorian-era splendor, the spirit of hospitality lives on. The crown jewel of the campground's heritage stands proudly spanning the Rockcastle River - the Old Sublimity Bridge. Masterfully constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1942, this architectural treasure has been lovingly restored for foot traffic, allowing modern adventurers to literally walk in the footsteps of history while connecting the campground's two distinct personalities.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Bee Rock Campground with its own distinctive palette. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing waters, while summer brings warm days perfect for river play and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. Autumn transforms the mixed hardwood canopy into a breathtaking tapestry of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that rival any New England vista. Winter offers a quieter experience, with crisp air and peaceful solitude, though water facilities close during freezing months. Many seasoned visitors claim fall as the crown jewel of seasons here, when the foliage display reflects brilliantly in the Rockcastle's flowing waters.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 700 feet above sea level, Bee Rock Campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without extreme altitude. This gentle elevation provides refreshing breezes on summer evenings, spectacular morning mists rising from the river valley, and comfortable conditions for hikers exploring the surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest trails.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient geology meets vibrant ecology at every turn. Massive sandstone cliffs rise dramatically from the Rockcastle River, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. The campground's mixed hardwood forest creates a living cathedral overhead, with towering oaks, maples, and hickories providing both shade and spectacular seasonal displays. Wildlife enthusiasts delight in frequent white-tailed deer sightings at dawn and dusk, while patient observers might spot playful river otters or even curious black bear cubs exploring the forest edges. The river itself serves as the campground's centerpiece, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding cliffs and forest canopy while providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay. Dragonflies dance above the water's surface in summer, and keen-eyed visitors should watch for the occasional scorpion - a reminder of the wild nature that thrives here.
Geological RegionBee Rock Campground showcases the stunning geological heritage of Daniel Boone National Forest, where millennia of water and weather have sculpted a dramatic landscape from ancient sandstone. The campground sits within one of Kentucky's most geologically diverse regions, where towering rock formations, deep gorges, and the ever-flowing Rockcastle River combine to create a natural wonderland. Mixed hardwood forests blanket the hillsides, their roots gripping the rocky soil that has nurtured these giants for centuries. This unique intersection of forest, cliff, and river ecosystems creates microhabitats that support an impressive diversity of plant and animal life, making every visit a new opportunity for discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, and the campground layout includes shaded areas that are more accessible for tent campers.
Sites SizeThe campground features 25 wooded campsites. Sites on the south side of the river are smaller and more tent-friendly, whereas north-side sites are more open and RV-friendly.
Sites PrivacySites on the south side offer excellent privacy with abundant shade, while the north-side sites are more open and sunny with only fair privacy.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose south-side sites for better shade and privacy when tent camping. North-side sites are preferable for RVs and those favoring sunnier locations.
Best CampsitesSites along the river are popular for their scenic views. Specific site numbers are not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The number of guests per site is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two sections by Rockcastle River: the south side is tent-friendly and shaded, while the north side is RV-friendly and sunny.
Open and Closed SeasonThe north side is open seasonally from March to November. The south side is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are available. Campers register and pay at a self-serve pay station.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 25 campsites are first-come, first-served. Sites fill patterns vary based on seasonal demand.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy information is provided due to the first-come, first-served setup.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bee Rock Campground provides a diverse range of activities, from hiking and fishing to non-motorized boating. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails that connect to the campground, fish in the Rockcastle River, or enjoy the historic Old Sublimity Bridge.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground, including Rockcastle Connector Trail #401A (1.3 miles), Rockcastle Narrows Trail #503, and Bee Rock Loop Trail #529 (2.1 miles). These trails range from easy to moderate and offer scenic views, including river overlooks and historic sites.Fishing
Fishing in the Rockcastle River offers opportunities to catch large and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, drum, and catfish. Several visitors praised the fishing experience, though one noted limited catches during their visit.Boating
A boat ramp is available at the Laurel County side of the campground, offering access for both power and non-motorized boating.Wildlife viewing
Campers reported observing deer, dragonflies, and even baby bears. "Walking around this campground at sunrise is almost spiritual. The dragonflies dance over the smooth rocks, families of deer come down to drink, and baby bears sometimes play in the woods."Winter Activities
Visitors noted that the south side of the campground remains open year-round, allowing for winter hikes and primitive camping. Facilities like water are limited in winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing can be pursued in the Rockcastle River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed. Fire rings are provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours information is not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, copperheads, scorpions, and occasional flooding during heavy rains. Poison ivy is abundant on riverbanks.
Active alertsA flash flood warning is active.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
London Ranger District Office is the nearest emergency service, located in London, KY.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season typically runs from March to November.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresBee Rock Campground is adjacent to Rockcastle River and features a boat ramp.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention poorly maintained trails, lack of park ranger patrols, and occasional murky river conditions. Others highlight the absence of showers and limited cell service.
HostThe campground host provides helpful amenities such as stickers and frisbees based on user reviews.
Campground Map
US Forest Service/US Army Corps of Engineers Resource Managers Office KY-1193 London, KY 40744
Driving directionsFrom I-75, take exit 38 (London). Travel west on KY 192 for 18 miles to the Rockcastle River. After crossing the river, turn right onto Forest Service Road 623.
The campground is accessible via Forest Service Road 623 after crossing Rockcastle River on KY 192. Gravel roads lead to the campground sections. The south side offers more tent-friendly shaded sites, while the north side is RV-friendly with less shade.Nearby places
London (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies can be accessed in London, KY, which is 18 miles away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
45 reviews
Bee Rock Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with several praising its proximity to the Rockcastle River and the availability of hiking trails. However, some visitors noted a need for better trail maintenance and facility cleanup.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the scenic views, particularly the river and the historic Old Sublimity Bridge. One reviewer likened sunrise walks to a 'spiritual' experience, while others mentioned the...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns included the lack of showers, limited cell phone reception, and occasional maintenance issues. One user noted that trails are poorly marked, and another mentioned the presence of...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting during off-peak times for more privacy and access to prime riverside sites. They also advise bringing insect repellent and proper equipment for primitive camping.
Based on 45 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended for their mild weather and stunning foliage. Winter visitors mentioned that only vault toilets were open, and water sources were shut off.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Walking around this campground at sunrise is almost spiritual. The dragonflies dance...families of deer come down to drink, and baby bears sometimes play in the woods." - Bean; "The campground was...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
South-side sites are noted for better privacy and shade, making them ideal for tent campers. North-side sites are more accessible for RVs but offer less privacy.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets meet accessibility standards, and the campground is partially wheelchair-friendly. However, the stairs at some sites can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet policies or experiences were found.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025