The Land Between the Lakes region spans 170,000 acres of protected forests and wetlands surrounding Barkley Lake. This recreation area crosses the Kentucky-Tennessee border, creating a diverse ecosystem with water levels that fluctuate seasonally by up to 5 feet. During summer months, temperatures consistently reach above 85°F, making water-based activities popular with campers from May through September.
What to do
Water activities: Lake Barkley State Resort Park offers multiple water access points with boat ramps and swimming areas. "The campground has a great beach area. Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," notes Ann D.
Hiking opportunities: Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park features interconnected trails for day hikes. "A newer trail Pennyrile Nature Trail is 13.5 mile long hiking trail, from Dawson Springs to the park," explains a reviewer. The park's multi-level terrain creates variable difficulty levels suitable for hikers of different abilities.
Fishing spots: Cravens Bay provides lake access for fishing enthusiasts. "There is a boat ramp and a dock for your boating needs, and many spots along the shoreline to set up camp for some waterfront views," notes Daniel B. The bay's secluded location makes it less crowded than other fishing areas in the region.
What campers like
Shoreline access: Canal Campground receives praise for its layout and water proximity. "The Campground is large enough that you can get some excercise right on site, jog, walk or bike. OR jump in your water craft from the boat ramp/dock within the campground and maneuver into either lake," writes Shelly S.
Privacy at primitive sites: Colson Hollow Group Camp offers more seclusion than developed campgrounds. "We stayed here two nights with our friends in two travel trailers. We had 4 adults and 4 kids and had the best time. This was our first time boon camping and it was actually way more enjoyable than being at a campground!" reports Maryann.
Clean facilities: "The bathrooms were clean. Most of this campsite is for RVs but tent campsite was still nice," notes Taylor W. about Canal Campground. Facilities maintenance varies seasonally, with highest standards maintained during peak summer months.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many sites across the region feature uneven terrain. At Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, "Sites are very sloped. Worst I've ever seen. Major drawback to this campground," warns John R. Bring leveling blocks and wheel chocks even for tent camping.
Seasonal variations: Water levels change throughout the year, affecting boat launch accessibility. "We stayed in off-season and the place was quite empty. Camp host told us it was always pretty quiet," reports Lynn A. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Horse camping requirements: At KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point, campers share space with equestrian visitors. "Most sites have great views of Lake Barkley! Large camp store with a restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza, beer and sodas... Golf cart rentals and the marina has boat rentals," notes Brad S.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Lake Barkley State Resort Park water areas have minimal supervision. "Camping area has its own boat ramp and no day use allowed. Water sports galore and some good trails," says Shelly S. Bring life jackets for children of all ages.
Kid-friendly amenities: "So much to do. Lake Barkley State Park offers so many activities and is right on the edge of Land Between The Lakes that I have been going to both for years and still not gotten to all of the sites available," explains another reviewer. Pack water toys and fishing equipment.
Wildlife viewing spots: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife. "Lots of different areas. One of my favorite in LBL. Tons of deer, and skunks, but they don't bother you," reports Jessica F. about Canal Campground. Morning and evening hours offer best animal sighting opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords required: Many electric hookup sites have unusual utility placement. "Well kept, no sewer hookup on sites, bath house clean, electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises Holly S. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park. Pack 50-foot minimum electrical cords.
Leveling challenges: "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. The road to come in was narrow but well marked," warns Cheyanne S. Use stabilizers and leveling blocks on most sites.
Seasonal availability: Horse campgrounds near Barkley Lake operate on limited schedules. Most equestrian facilities close between November and March due to trail conditions. Book horse camping sites at least 2 months in advance during peak summer weekends.
