The Army Corps of Engineers manages Eureka within the Barkley Recreation Area, operating this 26-site campground on the shores of Lake Barkley. Located just four miles from Highway 62 in Kuttawa, the facility accommodates RVs up to 68 feet with electric and water hookups at each site.
Most sites sit directly on the water, offering immediate lake access for fishing and swimming. Wendy T. notes "you can fish Lake Barkley from your campsite or just enjoy the waves washing up." The campground features level gravel sites with picnic tables and fire pits equipped with cooking grates. Mature trees provide varying degrees of shade, with some waterfront sites receiving full sun while interior spots offer complete coverage.
The one-way road system creates a circulation pattern that can extend exit times during busy periods. Matthew H. observes that campers should "book early many of the lake sites are booked for weeks at a time." A boat launch provides direct access to Lake Barkley, and a designated swimming area operates near the campground. Short nature trails wind through the wooded areas.
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for waterfront sites. The campground includes a bathhouse with hot showers, though some reviewers note maintenance could be improved. Paved roads connect all sites, and both AT&T and Verizon provide strong cellular signals. The facility operates seasonally and offers discounted rates for America the Beautiful pass holders.
Campers can explore nearby Canal or Nickell Branch Campground for additional Corps of Engineers camping options. The location provides convenient access to Grand Rivers and the broader Land Between the Lakes recreation area by boat.
Description
Overview
Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.
Recreation
Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.
Facilities
The campground offers 26 sites with water and electric hookups. Additional amenities include hot showers, playground, boat ramp and swimming area. A picnic shelter is available for groups up to 100 guests. Electric hookups are available.
Natural Features
Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding.
Nearby Attractions
Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Canal Campground, Eureka Campground, Hurricane Creek Campground and Bumpus Mills Campground at Lake Barkley now have check out times of 12 PM (noon). Check in time is 3 PM.
Map & DirectionsEureka is located in Kentucky near Grand Rivers
Directions
Physical Address: Eureka Campground, 1802 St. Rt. 1271, Kuttawa, KY 42055 From Nashville, Tennessee take I-24 West to Exit 40. Turn left onto Highway 62 West for 2.9 miles then turn left onto Highway 810. Go 0.7 miles then turn right onto State Route 1271. Continue onto 1271 for 1.8 miles. The road leads directly into the campground.
Address
Eureka Campground
1802 St. Rt. 1271
Kuttawa, KY 42055
Coordinates
37.0251389 N
88.1940111 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/1/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/1/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/1/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/1/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 25 min from Paducah, KY
- 1 hr 1 min from Clarksville, TN
- 1 hr 32 min from Evansville, IN
- 1 hr 45 min from Cape Girardeau, MO





























