federalfederal

TRACE BRANCH CAMPGROUND

federal · BUCKHORN, KY

DirectionsCall
  • fuel station5.5 mi

Data Source: Recreation.gov

About

Overview The Trace Branch Campground, located on Buckhorn Lake, is a great launchpad for outdoor activities in Kentucky's lush Cumberland Plateau. The facility features plenty of shade and open grassy areas for spreading out and enjoying the landscape of the Appalachian Mountain Range. Recreation Buckhorn lake offers ideal conditions for anglers including seclusion from fishing pressure and boat traffic, producing some of the best muskie fishing in the area. With comfortable water temperatures,swimming and water skiing are popular in summer months and hikers are encouraged to take advantage of the area's many miles of trails. Facilities Trace Branch Campground boasts mostly waterfront campsites with electric and water hookups. Amenities include a shower house, playground, horseshoe pits, and a convenient fishing area. Natural Features Buckhorn Lake is situated in the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Kentucky. The rugged plateau landscape is deeply traversed by a series of narrow, winding valleys separated by steep watersheds with branching streams. The Kentucky River feeds the lake, originating in the southeast of the state and flowing generally northwestward. Nearby Attractions Nearby destinations include the Lilley Cornett Woods, Daniel Boone National Forest, Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Red River Gorge Geological Area.

Around this stay

Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.

  • fuel station

    BP

    5.5 mi
  • grocery

    United Grocery Outlet

    8.2 mi
  • trailhead

    Sugar Creek Trailhead

    9.9 mi
  • recreation site

    Boat launch

    5.9 mi

No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.

Contact & access

  • 804 BUCKHORN DAM ROAD · BUCKHORN, KY 41721-8808
  • 606-672-3670

Reservations & demand

August weekends are typically reserved about 5 days ahead.

Based on 31 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.

Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.

Source and verification

Last verified: 10/5/2026

See the Sources tab for provenance detail.