Great Meadows Campground

Introduction / Overview

Tucked away in the beautiful and rugged landscape of the Daniel Boone National Forest, Great Meadows Campground offers a genuine escape into the wild heart of Kentucky. This is a destination for those who appreciate the simple, unfiltered experience of being in nature. Unlike large, commercial campgrounds with endless amenities, Great Meadows provides a more primitive and serene setting, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the outdoors. The campground is divided into two distinct loops, each offering a slightly different experience while maintaining the same tranquil atmosphere. It's a place where the sound of a flowing creek and the rustle of leaves replace the noise of everyday life, making it a perfect spot for family trips, solo adventures, or a quiet weekend with friends. With a focus on natural beauty and a "leave no trace" ethos, Great Meadows encourages a respectful and harmonious relationship with the environment.

Location and Accessibility

Great Meadows Campground is located on Rock Creek-Fireroad 137 Rd, Stearns, KY 42647, USA. This address places it deep within the Daniel Boone National Forest, a location that defines its rustic and secluded character. While the journey to the campground involves navigating a narrow gravel road, this is part of the adventure and adds to the feeling of a true getaway. Drivers should be aware of the road conditions and watch for other vehicles. The campground offers on-site parking and a wheelchair-accessible car park, a thoughtful feature for those with mobility challenges. Its location on the banks of Rock Creek provides a stunning backdrop, and its setting is perfect for those who want to be close to a natural water source for activities like fishing or wading. It's important to note that while the campground is accessible, its primitive nature means visitors should come prepared with all necessary supplies, as there are no nearby stores. The drive itself is a scenic introduction to the beauty that awaits you at the campground.

Services Offered

• Tent and RV Sites: The campground provides designated sites for both tent and RV camping, catering to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts.
• Public Restrooms: Public toilets are available on-site, a key convenience for campers in this primitive setting.
• Running Water: There are water spigots available, though it is important to confirm availability and note that full RV water hookups are not provided at each site.
• Picnic Facilities: Great Meadows is a great place for picnics, featuring dedicated picnic tables and grills, particularly around the shelter house area.
• Good for Kids: The natural environment, from the creek to the open spaces, makes it a wonderful place for children to play, explore, and learn about nature.
• On-site Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for campers and day visitors.
• Dogs Allowed: Your furry companions are welcome at the campground, as long as they are kept on a leash.
• Primitive Camping: For those seeking a more secluded experience, there are options for primitive camping in designated gravel pulloffs.

Features / Highlights

• Two Distinct Camping Loops: The campground is uniquely structured with two separate areas: "Deer Loop" and "Raccoon Loop." Deer Loop offers gravel campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and plenty of shade. Raccoon Loop provides the same amenities but with the added highlight of being situated directly beside the beautiful Rock Creek.
• Access to Rock Creek: The proximity to Rock Creek is a major highlight. This designated Kentucky Wild River is known for its cool, frigid waters, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. It is also stocked with rainbow trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities.
• Primitive and Secluded Feel: Great Meadows is ideal for those who prefer a rustic and private camping experience. The sites are well-spaced, offering a sense of seclusion and a true connection with the wilderness, and there are even more private primitive options available.
• Picnic Shelter and Walking Path: A shelter house situated on the creek provides a perfect spot for day visitors to enjoy a picnic with tables and grills. A paved walking path is also available nearby, offering a pleasant and accessible way to explore the area.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The presence of a wheelchair-accessible car park shows a commitment to making the natural beauty of the area accessible to more people.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: As noted by a satisfied customer, this campground is a fantastic place for a family trip, with plenty of natural features to keep kids entertained.

Contact Information

Address: Rock Creek-Fireroad 137 Rd, Stearns, KY 42647, USA
Phone: (606) 376-5323
Mobile Phone: +1 606-376-5323

What is worth choosing?

Choosing Great Meadows Campground is about embracing a specific kind of outdoor experience. It's not the right fit for someone looking for full hookups, Wi-Fi, or organized activities. Instead, it is the perfect destination for those who value authenticity, peace, and the raw beauty of the Kentucky wilderness. What makes it truly worth choosing is its ability to deliver a back-to-basics camping trip without sacrificing essential comforts like public toilets and running water. The dual-loop system, with the serene Raccoon Loop right next to Rock Creek and the shady Deer Loop, allows campers to pick the atmosphere that best suits their preference. The fact that the campground is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis makes it an accessible and spontaneous option for a weekend getaway.The opportunities for recreation are a significant draw. The chilly waters of Rock Creek provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat, and its status as a stocked trout stream is a bonus for anglers. The presence of a shelter house and picnic tables also makes it a great spot for a day trip, even if you’re not staying overnight. Families with children will find the wide-open spaces and natural features to be a fantastic playground for little ones. The simple pleasures of roasting marshmallows over a fire pit, listening to the creek, and gazing at the stars are what define the Great Meadows experience. For anyone in Kentucky seeking a quiet, natural retreat that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle, Great Meadows Campground is a truly remarkable and rewarding choice.

Great Meadows Campground

Rock Creek-Fireroad 137 Rd, Stearns, KY 42647, USA