This past weekend, my family and I had the pleasure of spending a couple of days in a cabin at Rough River Dam State Resort Park. I didn't really know what to expect.

While I was there, I chronicled some of our adventures. My four-year-old daughter and I try to frame our time outside of the home into adventures. Just sounds a little more fun, huh? I also wanted to give you a rundown of what we learned so that your trip will run smoothly!

Rough River Dam State Park

So, if you ever went or wanted to go to summer camp as a kid, Rough River Dam State Park NEEDS to be on your bucket list. From our home in Boonville, it only took about an hour and a half to get there so it's a short drive if you live in the tri-state.

There is so much to do and see! From the moment we walked in our cabin that was cozy, to swimming at the beach, and hiking, it felt just like camp! There's tennis, mini-golf, boating, basketball courts, hiking, playgrounds, picnic tables, swimming, volleyball, live entertainment, events, a gift shop, and a great buffet at Grayson's Landing Restaurant to enjoy! And, don't worry about lugging all your equipment, they have items like fishing poles and sporting equipment available at the front desk to check out.

Rough River Dam State Park also hosts weddings and large events. There are so many beautiful places to get married. And your guests can stay on-site and be entertained during their stay.

It was a lot to take in, so I broke it all down.

Cabins

Rough River Dam State Resort Park has resort rooms for rent but also cabins. Cabins come equipped with a mini-kitchen, pots and pans, tableware, microwave, grill, campfire, and even a hair dryer. If you are staying in a cabin, bring your campfire essentials like hot dogs, sticks, and s'mores fixin's. I did learn to leave your firewood at home. There is a nasty Ash Tree bug going around and KY Forestry officials are trying to contain it as much as possible. But, there's a gas station across the street that sells firewood. My favorite part about the cabin was the screened-in porch. Loved sitting outside without the hassle of bugs, rain, and critters.

Here's a virtual tour!

Some other things you should consider bringing:

  • Suntan Lotion
  • Bug Spray
  • Fishing Equipment (they sell fishing licenses at the marina and also rent fishing equipment at the front desk)
  • Food if you aren't eating all meals out
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
  • Ice
  • Charcoal/Fire starter for grilling
  • Tennis shoes
  • Swimsuits
  • Beach/lawn chairs
  • Beach towels
  • A hat

The Beach

While we were at Rough River Dam State Resort Park, our favorite thing to do was the BEACH! My kiddo had a great time splashing in the water and I had a great time sitting in my lounge chair with my feet in the sand! We brought a picnic lunch of PB&Js and relaxed for a couple hours!

The Marina

Though we didn't get a chance to rent a boat while we were there, it's definitely on the list for when we go back! If you don't own a boat, you can rent pontoons by the hour or day and during the summer there are also kayaks for rent. Rough River is a beautiful place to spend a day or two swimming, boating, and fishing.

Hiking

We got up pretty early on Saturday morning to hike the Lake Ridge Nature Trail. It's only about a mile so kids can do it and there are some spectacular views of the water!

So, there you have it! I would suggest staying for at least two nights since checkout for cabins is 10 AM and rooms is 11 AM. After a few hours hiking or beachin' it, you want to go back and clean up and rest! But, summer and fall rentals are filling up fast so make your reservation today!

Want to see Rough River Dam State Resort Park for yourself?

Contest expires: June 15, 2017 at 8 AM

 

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