The Land Between the Lakes region surrounding Barkley Lake spans 170,000 acres of protected forest and shoreline between Kentucky and Tennessee. Winter temperatures average 25-45°F while summer temperatures typically range from 70-95°F with high humidity levels. Most cabin facilities remain open March through November, though some offer year-round access with seasonal rate variations.
What to Do
Watercraft rentals: At Energy Lake Campground, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the calm waters. "The lake was gorgeous and perfect for kayaking though, with lots of nice coves to explore and wildlife to see. I saw a doe with a spotted fawn nursing on my first trip onto the water," notes one camper at Energy Lake.
Horse riding trails: Wranglers Campground offers dedicated trails for equestrians with cabin accommodations near the stables. A visitor comments, "Super beautiful. Perfect for tent, van life or rv. Bring the water toys." The campground specializes in equestrian access with multiple trail options.
Fishing opportunities: Several lake access points provide excellent fishing spots for various species. A visitor at Piney Campground noted, "Fishing was OK from the shore. There is a fishing pier people were talking about but we didnt try it." The fishing pier offers deeper water access without a boat.
What Campers Like
Lakeside cabin spots: Direct water access allows for immediate boat launching from some sites. "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite," explains one camper about their experience at Land Between the Lakes.
Cabin amenities: While most cabins require guests to bring bedding, many appreciate the comfort level compared to tent camping. At Wranglers Campground, a visitor noted, "Was greeted by friendly staff, splurged on a cabin and it was clean and comfortable. We didn't have any neighbors and were located close to the showers and some horse stables."
Off-season serenity: Paris Landing State Park offers a quieter experience during shoulder seasons. "We visited at the end of the season. The campground was right next to the marina and an overpass allows you to cross over to the other side where the lodge and golf course are," reports a fall visitor.
What You Should Know
Cabin reservation timing: For peak summer periods, reservations should be made 3-4 months in advance. At Land Between the Lakes Piney Campground, a camper advises: "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date."
Utility access challenges: Electrical outlets and water hookups might require extension cords and hoses. "Well kept, no sewer hookup on sites, bath house clean, electric far from pads - bring extension cord," notes a Lake Barkley State Resort Park visitor.
Seasonal facility closures: During off-peak months, some amenities shut down. One camper at KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point shared, "Website said the Pier restaurant would be open but when we arrived it wasn't scheduled to open until later in the month."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple recreation areas provide structured play options. "Energy Lake Campground has good spacing and nice bathhouse. The area is very peaceful and clean with plenty to offer," notes a visitor, though they also mention the playground equipment is limited in some areas.
Swimming options: Beach areas vary in quality and accessibility. "I wasn't expecting Florida beaches in Kentucky, but in Indiana we have nice sandy beaches at lakes so I was disappointed," commented an Energy Lake Campground visitor about the rocky shoreline.
Educational opportunities: The nature center offers ranger-led programs during summer months. "Checked out the Elk and Bison Prairie, which was really cool. Nature station was really cool and we rented some canoes to explore around that area. Went to the Homeplace, which is a working farm and 'living history museum,' which the kids really loved."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many cabin and RV sites throughout the region require significant leveling equipment. "We have two small kids and were with family (in adjacent D4) so we really hoped for a site with flat space for the kids to play in, but there was absolutely no grassy area," reported an Energy Lake visitor.
Water access logistics: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting boat launches and swim areas. "During this stay we were in the 'cove' area where Hurricane creek opens into Lake Barkley... the lake was already at winter pool this year, but that makes it quite easy to launch a kayak, or SUP."
Bath facilities: Shower buildings vary significantly in quality and distance from camping cabins near Barkley Lake. "The showers are campground showers and as such are nothing to write home about, but they were clean enough and I like that they are set up as individual, lockable shower rooms, rather than one big shower room."
