Creek sounds and canopy shade define the atmosphere at Great Meadows Campground, where two distinct loops offer different experiences along a flowing stream. The Raccoon Loop sits closest to the water, while the Deer Loop provides alternative sites across the road from the main creek access.
Forest Service sites here accommodate both tents and RVs with water hookups, though no electrical connections are available. Vault toilets stay well-maintained according to recent visitors, and water spigots provide reliable access during the main season. GoWhereYouAreDraw N. notes campers should "be prepared to pack your shit out" since no dump station or trash collection operates on-site. Horseshoe pits add recreational options beyond the creek access that draws many visitors for fishing and wading.
Cell service remains limited throughout the area, and the access road requires attention during wet conditions. Sites fill quickly during summer months on the first-come, first-serve system, though fall and spring typically offer better availability. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds near Daniel Boone National Forest provide additional options throughout the area.
Wildlife encounters occur regularly, with bears spotted near campsites during evening hours. Arrive early in peak season to secure creek-adjacent sites, and pack out all waste to maintain the area's condition.
Description
The Great Meadows Campground, located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is developed on both sides of the road. Deer Loop is on the right; Raccoon Loop is on the left. Deer Loop is open year round; but the water is shut off during the winter season. Raccoon Loop is April 1 - November 15. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to Great Meadows Campground. Learn more... View Great Meadows Guide and Map Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs along the Raccoon Loop. Rock Creek is stocked with rainbow trout March - June and September - December.. Campsite availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Trails nearby: Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 37 and Section 38; Mark Branch Trail # 635 and Gobblers Arch Trail # 636.
Location
Public CampgroundGreat Meadows Campground is located in Kentucky
Directions
In Stearns, KY, at intersection of State Rts. 1651 and 92, take Rt. 92 west 5.4 miles to State Rt. 1363 (and campground sign). Turn left onto Rt. 1363 and go 11 miles to a "T" intersection and campground sign. Turn right onto Forest Rt. 564 (dirt/gravel, single lane) and go 1.2 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left onto Forest Rt. 137 (dirt/gravel, single lane) and go 4.2 miles to the campground's Deer Loop on right or continue 1.4 miles to Raccoon Loop on left.
Coordinates
36.62900012 N
84.72700028 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 1 min from Knoxville, TN
- 2 hrs 13 min from Lexington, KY
- 2 hrs 17 min from Bowling Green, KY
- 2 hrs 40 min from Morristown, TN






