Holly Bay

Star4.59
291 reviews
LONDON RANGER DISTRICT, London, KY, 40744
Holly Bay
$46.00 - $92.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsite fees range between $46.00 and $92.00 during the reservable season (April 9 - October 20). Fees include an electric surcharge for sites with...
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Standard Site Fee$46.00
Hookup Site Fee$92.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$138.00

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Provider
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About this campground

Nestled within the legendary Daniel Boone National Forest, Holly Bay Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine single and double-family campsites overlooking the sparkling waters of Laurel River Lake. This beloved basecamp seamlessly blends forest tranquility with aquatic adventure, where morning mist rises from the lake as anglers cast their lines, boaters glide across glassy waters, and hikers disappear into woodland trails that wind through centuries-old hardwoods.
Holly Bay Campground offers a range of camping accommodations, including standard electric sites for RVs and tents. Group sites are available, as well as options with premium lake views. Walk-in and primitive camping are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into the footsteps of America's most famous frontiersman at this campground bearing the legacy of Daniel Boone himself. This 18th-century pioneer blazed trails through these very hills, leaving behind a spirit of adventure that still permeates the forest today. Just a scenic drive away, the thundering majesty of Cumberland Falls—known as the 'Niagara of the South'—connects visitors to the region's rich natural and cultural heritage that has captivated explorers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect rhythm at Holly Bay, where spring arrives with wildflower blooms and temperatures that hover in the sweet spot for camping comfort. As summer unfolds, warm sunshine transforms the campground into a bustling hub of water enthusiasts splashing in the lake's refreshing embrace. But it's autumn that truly steals the show, when crisp air and golden days create ideal conditions for witnessing the forest's spectacular color transformation.
ElevationPerched at the gentle elevations characteristic of the Appalachian foothills, Holly Bay offers that perfect middle ground—high enough to catch cooling breezes and sweeping lake views, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where mountain air meets lake breezes, providing natural air conditioning on warm summer nights.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a panorama where ancient hardwood forests cascade down to meet the expansive 5,600-acre mirror of Laurel River Lake. This stunning tapestry of land and water creates endless visual delights—from spring's delicate dogwood blossoms to autumn's breathtaking display when maples, oaks, and hickories paint the hillsides in flames of red, orange, and gold. The lake's impressive 192-mile shoreline weaves between forested coves and hidden inlets, each turn revealing new vistas.
Geological RegionHolly Bay sits at the heart of the Appalachian foothills, where ancient geological forces sculpted a landscape of rolling ridges and deep valleys now filled by Laurel River Lake. These time-worn mountains cradle 192 miles of dramatic cliff-lined shores, where exposed rock faces tell stories millions of years in the making. The surrounding hardwood forests cloak these ancient hills in green summer robes that transform into autumn's most spectacular natural theater, creating a geological wonderland that shifts with every season.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes an accessible flush toilet. However, accessibility for individuals with disabilities might be limited in some areas, as one review noted that the showers were difficult to use for wheelchair users due to the need to keep pressing the water button continuously.
Sites SizeCampsites at Holly Bay are described as spacious and well-separated, providing privacy. Users frequently mention ample room for RVs, tents, and additional vehicles.
Sites PrivacyHolly Bay's campsites are frequently noted for their privacy, with many surrounded by mature hardwood trees. One review stated, 'The campsites are wooded with lots of space in between.'
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLake-access sites in Loops G, H, and F are preferred. Families might avoid sites near high foot traffic areas like bathrooms.
Best CampsitesG5 and F5 consistently receive praise for spacious layouts and lake proximity.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay permitted is 14 nights during all seasons.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per single site is 6 campers, as stated in the reservation rules.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutLoops include G, H, F, D, and A. Sites are tiered with gravel pads and wooded surroundings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: April 9, Closed: October 20 (Reservable Season). Non-reservable periods apply outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through associated mobile apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited and premium sites are occasionally first-come-first-serve. User reviews suggest high demand during peak season weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the check-in date. A $10 cancellation fee applies. For late cancellations (1 calendar day before check-in), the first night's recreation fee is non-refundable. Changes to reservations are subject to a $10 fee for date changes.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Holly Bay Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming. The campground is connected to the 4.2-mile Sheltowee Trace Trail, which leads to the Laurel River Dam. Visitors can also enjoy boating and water skiing on Laurel River Lake, which spans 5,600 acres with 192 miles of shoreline. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are popular due to the area's natural beauty and forested setting.
Hiking
The campground features access to the 4.2-mile Sheltowee Trace Trail, which connects the site to the Laurel River Dam. The trail is suitable for hiking enthusiasts and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest and lake.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Holly Bay, with a fish cleaning station provided near the boat ramp. Visitors can expect to catch various species native to Laurel River Lake.
Biking
Biking opportunities are available within the campground and on nearby trails. The Sheltowee Trace Trail is popular for mountain biking, with options for both novice and experienced riders.
Boating
The campground provides a boat ramp for access to Laurel River Lake, making it ideal for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. Boating is one of the most frequently praised activities at Holly Bay.
Wildlife viewing
The area's diverse ecosystem offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Campers have reported sightings of various bird species, deer, and even otters near the lake.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are occasionally held during the summer months, focusing on the local ecology and history of the region.
Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are popular activities on Laurel River Lake. The lake's clear water and extensive shoreline provide ideal conditions.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed in designated rings. Firewood available for purchase.
  • Quiet hours enforced, specific times not mentioned.

Hazards

General hazardsBears frequent the area; poison ivy common near trails. Narrow roads and steep site inclines pose risks for large RVs.
Active alertsNo specific alerts were provided.

Weather forecast

61
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 87%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 8.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Partly cloudy

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest hospital is in London, KY (approximately 30 minutes drive). Police and ranger stations are available through local authorities.

Good to know

Peak season datesApril 9 - October 20
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but there is only one dump station for RVs, which reviews indicate can lead to long waits during busy weekends. Recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Laurel River Lake, featuring a boat ramp and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsIssues include lack of maintenance in bathrooms, slow drains, outdated facilities, and need for additional gravel on sites. Electrical pedestal issues were also flagged by users.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.

Campground Map

LONDON RANGER DISTRICT, London, KY, 40744
Driving directionsFrom London, Kentucky, take Exit 38 off I-75. Turn west on KY 192, then go 14.2 miles and turn south (left) on KY 1193. Follow signs to Holly Bay Campground entrance (3 miles).
Well-marked, paved roads. Narrow country roads with speed limits occasionally reduced to 25 mph may pose challenges for larger RVs or vehicles towing trailers.
Nearby places
London (14.2 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Corbin (30 minutes drive), Somerset (approximately 45 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including firewood, ice, and camping amenities are sold at the campground. Additional supplies can be acquired in London, KY.

Camper Reviews

4.6
291 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Holly Bay is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Holly Bay Campground receives high praise for its spacious and private campsites, friendly staff, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, some recurring issues include outdated restrooms, inconsistent cell service, and long waits at the single dump station.
Review Summaries
Based on 291 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's natural beauty, spacious and private campsites, and friendly and helpful staff. Activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking are highlighted as top...
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Based on 291 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints include poorly maintained restrooms and showers, long waits at the dump station, and inconsistent cell phone service. Some users also mentioned issues with the cleanliness...
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Based on 291 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Many users recommend booking early as the campground is frequently full. Campers also suggest bringing extra gravel or leveling blocks for steeper sites and being prepared for limited cell service....
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Based on 291 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Holly Bay Campground is particularly popular in the summer for its lake activities and trails. However, some users note that the lake and campground can become busy on weekends. Fall is another...
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Based on 291 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The campsites are wooded with lots of space in between.' 'The lake is beautiful and has easy access from sites.' 'The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful.' 'The restrooms need updating badly.'...
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Based on 291 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite D06 was noted as having trash left by the previous guest. Campsite H09 is popular for its spacious layout and proximity to restrooms. G5 was described as quiet and private, with lake views....
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Based on 291 reviews

Accessibility Features

One user mentioned difficulty using the showers with a wheelchair due to the need to continuously press the water button. Overall accessibility features are noted as minimal.
Based on 291 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, and most users reported a positive experience. Users appreciate the enforcement of leash rules and the general respectfulness of other pet owners.
Based on 291 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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