The Corps of Engineers will be busy for the next two years, overhauling local hotspots around Rough River Lake.

Stimulus funding has allowed for the vicinity to undergo required improvements to several different recreational facilities.

Most of the work completed in 2009 affected playgrounds in Axtel and North Fork, and paving to Axtel, North Fork and Laurel Branch campgrounds.

The efforts will continue into 2010 with the addition of water and electrical sites at the three above mentioned campsites, as well as updating the North Fork and Axtel Wastewater Treatment Plants.

Park Manager Diane Stratton explained in a little more detail about the crew’s plans for the lake area, what they have already completed this year.

Improvements scheduled for 2010:

• 48 additional water and electric sites at Axtel Campground

• 21 additional water and electric sites at North Fork Campground

• 20 additional water and electric sites at Laurel Branch

• Having the North Fork and Axtel Waste Treatment Plants updated

• Begin the rehab of the Cave Creek Campground

Improvements made in 2009:

• Playground, group shelter and restrooms at the Tailwater Recreational Area

• A new playground at Axtel Campground

• A new Playground at North Fork Beach side Campground

• Paving of 50 campsite driveways at Axtel Campground

• Paving of 30 campsite driveways at North Fork Campground

• Paving of 25 campsite driveways at Laurel Branch Campground

• Paving of Axtel, North Fork and Laurel Branch Campground roadways and parking areas

• Paving of the Laurel Branch day use parking lot

“Cave Creek Campground over the next two years will be going through a rehab,” Stratton said. “Plans are to add additional electric and water sites, improve the campsites by making them longer and wider, designation of the area between the fishing pier and the boat ramp as a day use area.”

The Corps has also decided to construct a multi-use trail for equestrian use, non-motorized bikes and also hiking. Fifteen other sites will also be designated as equestrian sites.

“We are also working with the Kentucky State Park at Rough River,” Stratton mentioned, “and the Friends of Rough group, to organize two special history-based events at Rough

River Lake that will be held in the spring and the fall of 2010.”

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