Barkley Lake sits at an elevation of 359 feet and encompasses 57,920 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline across western Kentucky and Tennessee. The lake was formed in 1966 when Barkley Dam was completed, creating a parallel reservoir system with Kentucky Lake. Water levels typically fluctuate 5-6 feet seasonally, with summer being the high-water period when glamping near Barkley Lake is most popular.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Energy Lake: For a more secluded paddling experience, Energy Lake Campground offers non-motorized watercraft access on a quiet inland lake. "The no-wake lake and canoe rentals were fun. I would advise checking with the hosts about canoe and kayak rentals upon check in, there is limited availability when camp is full and hot weather can also affect," writes one visitor at Energy Lake Campground.
Wildlife observation at Boswell Landing: Located near Fort Henry historic site, this area provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Beautiful view of the lake and bay," notes a camper at Boswell Landing Campground. The area features historical sites including Buchanan Cemetery, a Civil War cemetery within walking distance of the campground.
Explore secluded coves by boat: Ginger Bay offers boat-accessible camping with privacy rarely found at more developed sites. "Great place for backcountry though you can drive right to the spot. We fished, we hiked, we kayaked! We all enjoyed the peaceful exclusivity this site offers," shares a visitor at Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area.
What campers like
Peaceful inland lake settings: Many campers appreciate Energy Lake for its no-wake regulations. "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 a visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Lakefront camping accessibility: At Redd Hollow, campers can choose sites with direct water access. "There are several sites water level where you can put in to the lake and there are some very picturesque sites that overlook the lake," says one reviewer. "Majority of sites have a pretty nice view of the lake & there are some near the entrance that are mostly wooded if that's what you prefer," notes another camper at Redd Hollow.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being a basic campground, many sites feature concrete tables and defined camping areas. "Each site has a concrete picnic table and fire ring as well," mentions one visitor. Another notes that "the bathroom was very clean. We will probably go back during a time of year that is not so busy so we can get a site we like better!"
What you should know
Seasonal water levels affect lake access: Late summer and fall campers should be aware of changing shorelines. "When they start pulling the lake down what were water access sites become gravel and mud bar access sites. In the dead middle of the summer the back end of the cove is probably full of water. Early spring and late summer early fall it is not," explains a camper at Redd Hollow.
Varied site levelness across campgrounds: Lake Barkley camping areas often feature uneven terrain. "Pads are not level. Saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground and a TT with the hitch on the ground. Many sites had drop offs on the door side of the pad so you could not use all the awning space," notes one camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Road conditions for remote camping: Access to some of the most secluded glamping spots requires preparation. "The gravel road back can be rough especially right after a big rain but you can avoid most of the holes," cautions a Ginger Bay visitor. Another advises: "I don't recommend a pull behind trailer as the road is so rough you won't get a camper up it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options vary by location: Not all recreation areas offer equal facilities for children. "The playground is old with just a metal slide and swings. We didn't want to swim here so maybe plan on doing that elsewhere at the lakes," suggests a visitor at Energy Lake. For better play areas, consider Piney Campground which offers "bike paths, basketball court, multiple playgrounds, etc."
Shallow water areas for kids: Some coves provide safer water access for young swimmers. "The back end of Redd Hollow is shallow. Nice place to wade for kids," shares one camper. Another mentions that at Piney Campground, "water was warm and calm being off the main lake. Piney cove is pretty shallow and we could walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep."
Site selection for family privacy: For groups with children, some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "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 family that stayed at Boswell Landing.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords and hoses required: Utility placement varies across sites. "The utilities are positioned in between two sites. I only gave it 4 stars because of how shaded it was and how unlevel a lot of the sites were," shares a visitor at Lake Barkley State Park. Another notes: "Electric [is] far from pads - bring extension cord."
Four-wheel drive recommended for remote glamping: For upscale accommodations in more secluded areas, vehicle capabilities matter. "You will need a four-wheel drive to traverse the actual campground point," advises a visitor who enjoyed luxury camping at Ginger Bay. "This is a car camping site however you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get down the steep gravel road to the dispersed camping area."
