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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

DOG CREEK (KY)

Cub Run, Kentucky · Hart County · Campground

Overview Dog Creek Campground sits on the shores of Nolin River Lake in the rolling landscape of southern Kentucky. The large lake and surrounding greenery create a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here to take a tour of our lake.Recreation Known for its unique blue/green water, Nolin Lake is one of th…

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About DOG CREEK (KY)

Overview Dog Creek Campground sits on the shores of Nolin River Lake in the rolling landscape of southern Kentucky. The large lake and surrounding greenery create a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here to take a tour of our lake.Recreation Known for its unique blue/green water, Nolin Lake is one of the top lakes in Kentucky for catfish, bass, crappie and walleye fishing. Visitors can enjoy scenic canoe and boat trips along the river, part of which is located within Mammoth Cave National Park. Boat ramps are provided around the lake for campers' convenience. The Moutardier, Ponderosa and Wax Marinas are located around the lake and offer pontoon and john boat rentals, as well as boat slips and groceries, bait, gas and more. Several hiking trails also wind along the shoreline and into the surrounding forest. Shady Creek Trail, located in the Moutardier Recreation Area, is known for its array of wildflowers and greenery.Facilities Dog Creek Campground offers 70 reservable campsites, complete with modern amenities like electric hookups and flush toilets. Campsites are located along the shoreline, allowing easy access to the lake and beaches for visitors. Natural Features Nolin Dam creates a 5,795-acre lake that draws more than two million visitors each year to enjoy water sports and camping in the surrounding expanse of rolling forest. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (270) 286-4511. Nearby Attractions Mammoth Cave National Park is located a short drive or ferry ride away from the campground, and several golf courses and riding stables are located around the lake.Charges & Cancellations *Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your site or dates. * Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee. * No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the fi

How to Get There

From Bowling Green, KY Follow US 31W North from Bowling Green for approximately 14 miles then turn left onto KY 101. In appriximately 6 miles, Hwy 101 becomes Hwy 259 North. Follow Hwy 259 North for 11 miles before turning right on KY 728. Follow Hwy 728 for 8 miles before turning left on Union Light Road. Stay on Union Light Road for about 5 miles. Turn Left into the Dog Creek Campground. Total driving distance from Bowling Green is about 43 miles; driving time is around 1 hour, 15 minutes. From Louisville, KY Follow I-65 south to exit 76 and turn west onto Highway 224. Follow Hwy 224 for approximately 10 miles, then turn left onto Highway 479. In approximately 8 miles, turn left on Hwy 88. In about 2 miles turn right on KY 2015/Union Light Road. The campground is on the right about 1 mile down Union Light Road. Total driving distance is about 81 miles; driving time is about 1 hour, 45 minutes. From Nashville, TN Take I65 North for approximately 66 miles. Merge onto KY 446 exit 28. Merge right onto Hwy 31W North. Follow 31W North for approximately 10 miles, then turn left onto KY 101. In appriximately 6 miles, Hwy 101 becomes Hwy 259 North. Follow Hwy 259 North for 11 miles before turning right on KY 728. Follow Hwy 728 for 8 miles before turning left on Union Light Road. Stay on Union Light Road for about 5 miles. Turn Left into the Dog Creek Campground. Total driving distance from Nashville is about 107 miles; driving time is around 2 hour, 15 minutes.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to DOG CREEK (KY)

Heading to DOG CREEK (KY)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for DOG CREEK (KY)?

No central reservation system listed for DOG CREEK (KY). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233488) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to DOG CREEK (KY)?

From Bowling Green, KY Follow US 31W North from Bowling Green for approximately 14 miles then turn left onto KY 101. In appriximately 6 miles, Hwy 101 becomes Hwy 259 North. Follow Hwy 259 North for 11 miles before turning right on KY 728. Follow Hwy 728 for 8 miles before turning left on Union Light Road. Stay on Union Light Road for about 5 miles. Turn Left into the Dog Creek Campground. Total d…

How do I contact DOG CREEK (KY)?

You can reach the park at phone: 270-524-5454 or email: danielle.robertson@usace.army.mil.