Best Campgrounds near Paducah, KY

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paducah. Paducah is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Paducah, Kentucky (141)

    1. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    155 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Hillman Ferry Campground offers 374 well-defined lake front and wooded sites capable of handling a variety of camping units from tents to large motor homes. Basic, electric, water, and sewer sites are available. Campers have access to modern facilities, including a large swimming area, archery range, ball field, bike trails, campfire amphitheater, hiking trails, two boat ramps, fishing dock, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the summer season we offer recreation programs for all ages.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    2. Shawnee Forest Campground

    33 Reviews
    69 Photos
    197 Saves
    Vienna, Illinois

    Located in the Middle of Southern Illinois just Off I-24 it is a great place to stay while you explore all the the Shawnee Forest. From Giant City to Garden of the Gods. The Tunnel Hill bike trail is a half mile away and Cache River is just down the road. We have 60 Full Hook up sites. Large pull through sites up to 120 feet long. We have Shower Houses and Laundry Facilities. Our Campground is Open Year Round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    3. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    15 Reviews
    37 Photos
    65 Saves
    Paducah, Kentucky

    We are a Good Sam Park and a family-owned campground that was established by Fern and Sam in 1977. Our beloved, Sam, passed away December 20, 2018. Greg and Deanna Bazzell are the second generation campground hosts who live on the property. Whether you want to spend the night or stay longer to visit or work in the area, we can accommodate you. From tents to the largest campers and motor homes we have a convenient site for you. Our entire team is committed to meeting your needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers.

    We would welcome the opportunity to accommodate your stay and deliver you the best service in the industry. ~ Greg and Deanna Bazzell

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $48 / night

    4. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    142 Photos
    307 Saves
    Eddyville, Illinois

    Bell Smith Springs is one of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. It contains a series of clear, rocky streams and scenic canyons bordered by high sandstone cliffs and an abundance of vegetation unique to Illinois. The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 / night

    5. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    53 Reviews
    228 Photos
    506 Saves
    Karbers Ridge, Illinois

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    6. Canal - Lake Barkley

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    64 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Overview

    Situated along a peninsula between the lush shorelines of Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, Canal Campground offers modern camping and provides the ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Barkley Dam and boats traveling through the canal from the comfort of their campsite. The campground faces Barkley Lake, and the shore of Kentucky Lake is a brisk one-mile walk across the canal.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Canal Campground is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Eagle nests can be spotted throughout the grounds, and its not unlikely for visitors to encounter deer and other wildlife. A short hiking trail allows campers to enjoy the outdoor scenery at their leisure. Fishing is also a popular pastime, and during warm months bass and catfish are plentiful in both lakes.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, as part of a dam project at the Cumberland River, spans 134 miles along the Kentucky landscape, offering countless recreational activities to visitors. The canal connects Lake Barley with Kentucky Lake, forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country.

    Nearby Attractions

    Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $256 / night

    7. Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    110 Saves
    Grantsburg, Illinois

    If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side of the forest or any place in-between. Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, fishing and bicycling. The accessible picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $10 - $20 / night

    8. Eureka

    16 Reviews
    48 Photos
    94 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    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.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $35 / night

    9. Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    Calvert City, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    10. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

    12 Reviews
    28 Photos
    31 Saves
    Gilbertsville, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 141 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Paducah, KY

801 Reviews of 141 Paducah Campgrounds



Guide to Paducah

Camping near Paducah, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: The area is surrounded by stunning parks and lakes. You can hike, fish, or just enjoy the views.
  • Visit Local Attractions: Check out the National Quilting Museum or take a short drive to the Land Between the Lakes for more outdoor fun.
  • Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Canal - Lake Barkley, offer access to the lake for boating and fishing. One camper mentioned, “The peninsula offers many sites with water views and access.”

What campers like

  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One review noted, “The staff was friendly and walked us to our site and showed us the hookups” at Fern Lake Campground and RV Park.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Oak Point - Lake Glendale said, “The bathrooms are clean and well-stocked.”
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park mentioned, “Campground is beautiful with lots of room in between sites.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. For example, a camper at Dixon Springs State Park pointed out, “Pit toilets with no hand washing station or showers.”
  • Seasonal Crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area noted, “During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A visitor at Canal - Lake Barkley mentioned, “Tons of deer, and skunks, but they don’t bother you.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One family enjoyed the beach and playground at Fern Lake Campground and RV Park, saying, “The beach and the playground were nice for the kids.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check for nearby restaurants. A camper at Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA mentioned, “Quick food options just down the road.”
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water and wildlife. One camper advised, “Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks” when visiting Oak Point - Lake Glendale.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park mentioned, “The sites are very small but spread out.”
  • Leveling Your RV: Some sites can be hilly or uneven. A camper at Cypress Lakes RV Park noted, “Our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake.”
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. A visitor at Oak Point Campground said, “Very difficult to get an electric site in the summer, especially on weekends.”

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Paducah, KY!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Paducah, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near Paducah, KY and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paducah, KY is Hillman Ferry Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Paducah, KY.

  • What parks are near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Paducah, KY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.