Rough River State Park, set in beautiful hilly terrain, overlooks the massive Rough River Lake. The Clifty area where the lake is situated is geologically significant with rock layers estimated to be as old as 300,000,000 years. BBOnline gives you an overview of the park's highlights as well as attractions nearby.
Rough River Dam State Resort Park
450 Falls of Rough
Kentucky 40119
(1-800) 325-1713
www.roughriverlaketourism.com
The park has a 66-site campground close to the Rough River, below the Rough River Dam. It's a beautiful place for camping, full of trees. The river adds to its beauty. There's a one-mile hiking trail around the lake nearby and you will probably be able to see a variety of wildlife on the hike. Facilities include utility hook-ups, showers, a dump station, restrooms and playgrounds. If you prefer something more rustic, primitive sites are available. You may be in time for the park's Camper's Appreciation Weekend with its discounts and entertaining programs.
Boating is great on the 5,100-acre lake, which has a marina and a boat ramp. Try the "Lady of the Lake II" tour. You can swim at the park's public beach which has a bath house, or in the pool if you're staying at the cottages or the lodge. For the golf enthusiast, there's the mini golf course or the 9-hole golf course. That's a lot of enjoyable things to do from your McDaniels Bed and Breakfast.
The Mammoth Cave National Park
1 Mammoth Cave Entrance Road
Mammoth Cave, Kentucky 42259
(270) 758-2180
www.nps.gov/maca
The longest cave in the world is the result of the action of water on limestone in the Clifty area. The cave has more than 240 miles of passageways and a huge amount of cave wildlife. The cave, toured since 1816, is still one of America's greatest attractions. It's definitely the oldest! Get away from the heat of a surface hike and enjoy the cave's cool interiors. Try and make time for the four-hour Grand Avenue Tour of the cave during your stay at your McDaniels Inn. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The park also offers horseback riding, surface hiking, canoeing on the Green River, bicycling and more.
The Pine Knob Theater
2250 Pine Knob Road
Caneyville, Kentucky 42721
(270) 879-8190
Just 14 miles from the Rough River State Park, this is said to be Kentucky's finest theater. You'll watch shows under the stars in an amphitheater. The most famous show here, "Dock Brown - Legend of an Outlaw," is based on a true story that took place on the theater grounds.
There's a 50s style Diner with a Blue Plate Special, burgers, sandwiches and more on the menu. You can dine here before the shows begin. The authentic 50s-60s jukeboxes and pinball machines add a vintage touch to the diner.
Cave Creek Campground
14500 Falls of Rough
Kentucky 40119
www.us-parks.com/camping/ky/cave-creek-campground
Cave Creek on Rough River Lake is a secluded and quiet place with rich natural beauty. This area near Rough River State Park sees a lot of rain. The campground has 86 campsites, boat launch, dump station and a playground. Reserve at least two days in advance.