Rockhouse Boondocking
In Jamestown, Kentucky
Off-Grid Camping and Local Attractions
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| 8249-9293 Kentucky 379 Jamestown, Kentucky GPS: 36.884723, -85.236112 Elevation: 640′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – State Park This is a FREE campsite. Camping is Free. State Park requires a Pass to Get In |
Previous Reviews:
Rockhouse Boondocking: Hidden away in Creelsboro, Kentucky along the Cumberland river lies a beautiful naturally formed arch way. The locals call it “rock chapel” due to the fact they use to hold church service in it. The land is free and open to the public. There are plenty of spots for camping. Only tent or car campers. RV’s will not fit on the narrow gravel road. Beautiful area to explore. Highly recommend.
About This Location
If you’re after some peace and quiet near Jamestown, Kentucky, Rockhouse Boondocking is honestly a pretty solid choice. It’s all about camping without hookups, which means you’re getting a much more natural experience right by the Creelsboro Natural Arch—a wild limestone formation that’s kind of a local secret.
Rockhouse Boondocking sits about 20 miles south of Jamestown and it’s totally free, primitive camping just steps away from one of Kentucky’s most impressive natural arches. The roads out here wind through backcountry and, honestly, the whole area feels like it’s made for folks who want something simple and scenic.
You’ll get there by following U.S. Highway 127 and then KY-379 until you hit Creelsboro. Whether you’re itching to check out the arch or just need a place to zone out in nature, Rockhouse Boondocking is a pretty convenient base.
Rockhouse Boondocking In Jamestown, Kentucky
If you’re into camping, Rockhouse boondocking near Jamestown is a chill spot to park your rig. It’s tucked about 25 minutes south of Jamestown, right near Creelsboro Natural Arch, which is honestly a gem. The area’s got a reputation for its quiet and natural beauty, and it lives up to the hype.
The boondocking site won’t cost you a dime and it’s perfect if you want to stay close to nature—no frills, just you and the outdoors. You’ll find it along Kentucky State Route 379, close to the Creelsboro community, and the elevation here is around 860 feet, so the views are pretty great.
When you’re here, don’t skip the Rockhouse Natural Arch. It’s actually one of the biggest natural arches east of the Mississippi, which is kind of wild if you think about it. Hiking around the arch is a favorite thing for visitors, and you’ll see why once you’re out there.
What to expect at Rockhouse Boondocking:
- No hookups or facilities
- Quiet, natural setting
- Access to hiking trails and outdoor sightseeing
- Close proximity to Jamestown for supplies
You’ll want to bring everything you need, because honestly, services are close to nonexistent. This spot is best for people who are cool with rustic camping and don’t mind keeping things low-key. Make sure your vehicle can handle a bit of backroad travel—some of the roads can get rough.
Directions
To get to Rockhouse Boondocking in Jamestown, Kentucky, start off heading toward Jamestown on Highway 379. That road runs straight south from the heart of town, and you’ll be out in the countryside before you know it.
Once you’re on Highway 379, just keep an eye out for signs pointing to the Rock House Natural Arch. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Jamestown, give or take.
If you’re rolling in from out of town, it’s probably easiest to use a GPS or your favorite map app. Just punch in: Creelsboro Jamestown, KY 42629 and you’ll get routed pretty much right there.
Look for parking near the arch—sometimes there are spots set aside for boondocking or camping, but it’s not always clearly marked. Just something to keep in mind.
Here’s a quick table for directions:
| Starting Point | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jamestown, KY | Take Highway 379 South | Approximately 25 minutes drive |
| Nearby towns | Connect via state roads | Use GPS for best routes |
Check the road conditions before you leave, especially if it’s been raining or there’s construction—Kentucky backroads can be unpredictable. Local traffic updates might save you a headache.
You can stock up on food, gas, and whatever else in Jamestown before you head out. It’s worth being prepared, so you can just relax and enjoy your time at Rockhouse Boondocking.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
You can get to Rockhouse Boondocking in Jamestown, Kentucky, with a standard vehicle, though not every spot is equally easy to reach. Some of the sites are tucked away and might need a high-clearance or off-road ride. The ground can be unpredictable, especially after rain—I’d definitely check local conditions before heading out, just to be sure you won’t get stuck.
Most of the land near Rockhouse boondocking falls under national forest management. If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll need a valid pass like an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass or maybe a local forest pass. It’s a little bit of paperwork, but it’s not too complicated.
Pricing details:
- Overnight camping usually means you need a pass or permit, and fees run from $5 to $15 per night, depending on which pass you pick up.
- Some nearby public lands are free to camp on, but they might have strict rules about vehicle size or how many nights you can stay.
Parking areas are pretty barebones, so don’t expect hookups or fancy amenities out here. You really have to be self-sufficient and stick to designated areas if you want to avoid fines.
Keep an eye out for posted rules about vehicle size or how long you can camp. Some roads get closed off after storms or certain times of year, so it’s worth calling the local ranger station before you go—just in case.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Car Camping Tent Camping |