Barkley Lake camping options occupy a peninsula formed where Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley converge, creating over 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline across western Kentucky and Tennessee. The area sits at approximately 359 feet above sea level with water levels controlled by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, fluctuating 1-5 feet seasonally. Most campgrounds remain open from March through November, with a few basic sites available year-round in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
What to do
Boat rentals and access: Energy Lake Campground offers canoe and kayak rentals at $10/hr, providing an opportunity to explore the no-wake lake. "I did try to soak my feet, see if there was a 'breaking point' for these guys. No surprise really, but if you walk into water that goes above the sock line on your leg, water is going to seep in," shares a camper at Energy Lake Campground.
Mountain biking: Trails connect directly from some camping areas. "A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground! The Canal Loop Trail and North South Trails are well known and revered by area mountain bikers and hikers," notes a visitor at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Historic exploration: The area contains significant Civil War sites. "Within walking distance of the campground, down the paved road are a notable things: Buchanan Cemetery, which is a civil war cemetery, and the site of Fort Henry," explains a camper at Boswell Landing.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Basic camping areas offer direct water access with fewer crowds. "If you drive all the way to the back of this campground, there's a little bluff overlooking the lake where you can camp," reports a visitor at Redd Hollow, adding that the bathroom was "very clean."
Fishing accessibility: Many campsites provide shore fishing with boat ramps nearby. "This was a great location b/c it was quiet, waterfront and has great amenities. We hung our hammock between 2 trees over the water and relaxed by the waters edge," shares a camper at Hurricane Creek.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "Kids were so excited about seeing a turkey by the camper in the morning. It was hard to choose a site just because they were all so nice on a small hill overlooking the water," notes a visitor at Bumpus Mills.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require significant leveling equipment. "Enjoyed our stay. Bring quite a bit of leveling materials as the sites are very unlevel. 1 dump station and an older but usable bath house," warns a camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "No WiFi or internet service. Cell signal in prior years have been spotty," mentions a visitor at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Utility connections: Hook-up locations can be awkward at some campgrounds. "Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," notes a reviewer at Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds have designated swim areas better suited for children. "There is a very nice boat ramp and several boat parking areas... the beach is muddy and rocky and the playground is old with just a metal slide and swings," explains a visitor at Energy Lake Campground.
Activity planning: Some facilities have scheduled programming for kids. "Our stay during Outdoor Kids Fest was the best. Camp store had a variety groceries and necessities in case you forgot something. So much to do in the LBL Rec. area. Next time we'll bring our bikes and archery equipment to try out the range on-site," shares a camper at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Campsite selection for kids: Choose sites with natural play features. "This site is amazing! We were able to spread out our tents for a group site and we had the perfect set up! We were 100ft. from the lake and had so many trees to use for our hammocks," notes a visitor at Boswell Landing Campground.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "The roads are NARROW and tree-lined, so I don't recommend any rig over 30'," cautions a camper at Bumpus Mills.
Site selection for big rigs: Some campgrounds have limited options for larger vehicles. "Big RVers probably should stay away when this campground is full. We watched a fifth wheel almost get stuck on their way out. Sites are shallow but wider," warns a visitor at Kenlake State Resort Park.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times during peak checkout periods. "Only one dump site, and it's a one-sided, one port, pull-through lane, so if you go at checkout/1-2pm, expect a 2-3 RV wait to dump," advises an RVer at Hurricane Creek.
