Kentucky River Area Development District
Apr 22, 2026
A decade in the making, the campground aims to tap into eastern Kentucky's growing ATV tourism economy
Local and regional leaders recently gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new RV park and campground in Breathitt County, a project more than a decade in the making and an example of how Area Development Districts help move complex projects from concept to construction.
The development, led by the Breathitt County Fiscal Court under Judge/Executive Jeff Noble, will include 24 RV sites, a bathhouse with restrooms and showers, a general store and three completed cabins, with plans to expand to 13 cabins.
Located on a former surface mine site, the project reflects a broader effort to reclaim land and create new opportunities for tourism and economic growth in eastern Kentucky.
The project is funded entirely through grant support, including $1.345 million from the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program and more than $1.2 million from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).
The Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD) partnered closely with the fiscal court to secure and administer funding, navigate program requirements and support the project through multiple phases of development. Initial groundwork began in 2016 with AMLER funding for a waterline extension, demonstrating the long-term coordination often required to bring projects of this scale to fruition.
The campground is now positioned to support increased visitation tied to eastern Kentucky’s ATV trail systems, including regional efforts led by First Frontier Appalachian Trails to connect 21 counties. Leaders emphasized that the development is intended to serve as a catalyst for additional investment, encouraging private sector growth and supporting local businesses.
Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Gov. Andy Beshear, noted the collaborative nature of the effort, describing it as a project focused on the community as a whole.
Partners recognized during the event included KRADD, AMLER, ARC, First Frontier Appalachian Trails, the City of Jackson and state and local officials. Attendees toured completed portions of the site, including cabins and shared facilities.
As construction continues, the project highlights the role of ADDs in supporting communities through project development, funding coordination and long-term regional planning.
For more information, visit kradd.org/2026/04/14/breathitt-county-breaks-ground-on-new-rv-park-and-campground-to-support-growing-tourism-economy.