Dispersed camping locations around Smithland, Kentucky offer campers a mix of primitive sites with diverse waterfront settings. The area sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Cumberland Rivers at approximately 350 feet elevation, creating numerous coves and bays for secluded camping. Weather patterns vary seasonally with hot, humid summers reaching the 90s and mild spring and fall seasons that draw fewer crowds to camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking and water access: Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access provides excellent water entry points for paddlers. "Good campground for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect! Highly recommend for tent camping," notes one visitor who stayed during July.
Hiking nearby trails: The Old Boy Scout Campground connects to several trail systems. A camper reported, "This is the Eastern trailhead for the River to River trail, there is also a shorter trail, Beaver. Good one to practice your backpacking skills on."
Fishing opportunities: Tower Rock Campground offers access to the Ohio River for anglers. A reviewer mentioned, "Tower Rock is boonyville like most of the Shawnee NF sites in this area. Perfect for a get away from the hustle and electronics of city life." Many anglers utilize the boat ramp for early morning fishing trips.
Wildlife observation: Several campgrounds feature habitats for diverse wildlife. In Camp Cadiz, one visitor noted, "The hiking trails that headed out from the camp were wonderful. We even hiked down the forest road and found a hidden cemetery tucked away."
What campers like
Privacy and space: Smith Bay Campground offers well-separated sites with direct water access. A camper noted, "The campground slots run the perimeter of the area, and are spaced far enough apart to give privacy without being too far from the water front."
Water proximity: Campers frequently mention the benefit of shoreline camping. At Sugar Bay Campground, "Swimming allowed in Sugar Bay (no lifeguard) and in late September the water was warm. No showers or bathrooms, but each camp spot has a table and fire pit."
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor at Sugar Bay mentioned, "Nice and quiet, beautiful stars at night and good cell service if you needed it."
Natural surroundings: The primitive setting appeals to those seeking immersion in nature. One camper at Cravens Bay stated, "Defiantly for the nature lovers out there, nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning."
What you should know
Water considerations: Most dispersed tent campsites near Smithland require campers to bring their own water. At Twin Lakes Campground, "There are no amenities here, and my cell signal was iffy one moment and three bars the next (AT&T)."
Permit requirements: Many sites in Land Between the Lakes require permits. A Twin Lakes reviewer explained, "All sites are first come, first serve, require a Basic Campground (Dispersed) camping permit which you have to purchase at any of the visitor's centers prior to your arrival."
Variable road conditions: Access roads range from paved to rough gravel. At Camp Cadiz, "Every vehicle that went by generated dust which then coated everything in our camp. If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road."
Seasonal considerations: Hunting seasons affect campground atmosphere. One Camp Cadiz camper reported, "Camp filled up with hunters who started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey."
Tips for camping with families
Beach options for children: Sportsman's Anchor Resort and Marina offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor noted, "There's onsite bathrooms and showers, along with a store and wood for sale for 50 cents a piece! Great deal! There's also a playground and pool for members!"
Swimming areas with gradual entry: Some shoreline areas feature pebble beaches ideal for children. At Smith Bay, "We stayed at a site right off the water. We kayak so it was perfect for us to leave them on the shoreline so we could come and go as we please. It is a rocky beach but very clean."
Wildlife education opportunities: The area provides natural learning experiences. In Tower Rock, "The actual campground is basically a mowed area in the woods close to the river. There is a pit toilet but otherwise pick your area and settle in."
Group camping spots: Several locations accommodate larger family groups. At Old Boy Scout Campground, "It is also very usable for a group. It is also very over grown, hasn't been mowed or maintained in more than 8 or 10 years."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many tent campsites near Smithland have uneven terrain that requires preparation. At Cravens Bay, one RVer advised, "We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site."
Limited generator usage: Most primitive sites restrict generator operation. A Cravens Bay visitor warned, "Generators are only allowed during the day. However, there is no one to enforce this."
Narrow access roads: RVers should research road conditions before arrival. According to an experienced camper, "The road leading into the campsite is paved but narrow, the roads at the campsite are well hard packed gravel and very narrow."
Self-containment necessity: Due to limited amenities, RVers must prepare accordingly. "If you don't mind not having any hook ups and dry/boon docking with your camper Cravens Bay has a lot to offer in terms of privacy, peace, boating, fishing, and swimming."
