The Little Kentucky River Watershed Conservancy District Board has approved a bid from Jeremy Chilton and Dylan Taylor to lease and renovate the Lake Jericho Campgrounds, setting the stage for a 10-year agreement that will begin in 2026.
According to an article published by HC Local on August 29, the decision was made during a special called meeting at the 4-H Building at the Henry County Fairgrounds.
The approval followed a motion by board member Paul Baxter, who conditioned the acceptance on the contract becoming effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Board Member Macy Foree seconded the motion, leading to a unanimous vote among members present, with one exception.
Board Member Butch Foree recused himself, citing his employment with Wayne’s Outdoor Equipment La Grange Polaris Dealer, where Chilton also works.
The lease agreement calls for Chilton and Taylor to pay $1,000 per month to the board for 10 years, with an option for early termination after 24 months.
The arrangement outlines a phased approach to renovations, with the stated goal of modernizing and expanding campground facilities.
According to the bid, the first phase involves removal of all current camping structures and tenants to make way for new development.
Later phases are designed to restore existing features and introduce new amenities that would expand the campground’s offerings.
Chilton and Taylor’s proposal prevailed over competing bids, drawing frustration from other bidders and longtime residents.
Emotions ran high during and after the vote, particularly from individuals who have lived and worked at Lake Jericho for decades.
Bidders Melissa, Crystal, and Chantel Ramsey voiced disappointment, saying the campground has served as both their home and source of employment.
Lake Jericho, a 137-acre lake in Henry County, Kentucky, is operated by the Little Kentucky River Watershed Conservancy District.
Opened to the public on July 25, 1969, the site is maintained through daily admission fees, along with charges for camping, boating, and other recreational activities. These funds support the ongoing operation and upkeep of the park.
The park is open during daylight hours and offers a range of outdoor amenities, including extensive bank fishing areas, picnic tables, and grills.
Two shelters with restrooms are available on a first-come basis, though they can also be reserved for events such as family reunions, company picnics, and church outings.
The campground features 62 RV sites with electric and water connections, about half of which include sewer hook-ups. A dumping station is also provided, and numerous tent sites are located in the center of the campground.