Dispersed camping options surround Cadiz, Kentucky, primarily in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area where primitive sites offer lakeside camping without developed facilities. Situated within Kentucky's western lakes region, these rustic camping areas sit at elevations between 350-500 feet with rolling terrain and seasonal water levels that fluctuate 5-6 feet between winter and summer pools. Most locations require a Basic Camping Permit available at visitor centers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At LBL FS-326, campers enjoy direct access to Energy Lake. "The views of the lake are amazing, and this is a quiet area that allows for easy kayaking or other small water craft. There is a boat ramp, and zero entry areas into the water for launching," notes a camper about the nearby Demumber's Bay area.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and shorelines provide habitat for diverse wildlife. A visitor at Forest Service Rd 343 mentioned: "Secluded but visited... The next morning an older man on a horse stopped to talk and a couple in a Cherokee stopped to chat. Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place."
Swimming: Several camping areas offer natural swimming spots along the shoreline. A camper at Forest Service Rd 343 shared: "I had one other person show up to cook, but they left shortly after. Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!"
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Many dispersed sites require only modest permits. At Forest Service Rd 343, a camper explained: "Dispersed camping is a $10 fee. If you have the National Park pass you can go to a self check in campground for $5."
Isolation from crowds: Despite occasional visitors, most sites provide substantial privacy. An LBL FS154 camper noted: "This site is quite remote feeling, but for a dispersed site, it is absolutely the BEST, which is why it is sometimes difficult to secure it, being it is first come first served."
Lakefront positioning: The peninsula and shoreline sites offer direct water access. A visitor to Neville Bay shared: "Mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A Forest Service Rd 343 visitor warned: "The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections."
Seasonal challenges: Weather conditions affect both accessibility and comfort. An August camper at Demumber's Bay cautioned: "Pulled in around dusk and there was a deserted camper there, about 4 pull in sites for rooftop campers. The bugs were insane and 40 must've flown into my car when I opened the door for a split second."
Limited availability: The most desirable spots can fill quickly, especially on weekends. An LBL FS154 camper advised: "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers."
Tips for camping with families
Select more accessible locations: Some areas provide better family accommodations. A visitor to Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road shared: "Not free, but worthwhile for a small fee. My family and I loved spending time at this spot!"
Plan for bathroom access: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. An LBL FS154 camper noted: "The pit toilet at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away. Both spots had fire pits."
Prepare for complete self-sufficiency: No amenities means bringing everything. A Demumber's Bay visitor explained: "This is a well maintained campground whose only amenity is a vault toilet, and trash dumpster. The views of the lake are amazing."
Tips from RVers
Choose sites with adequate clearance: Not all dispersed areas accommodate large rigs. A Neville Bay camper shared: "Nice little area to camp at. Well suited for tents. Most of the area isn't very level. The road going back there is gravel. We went with our 30 ft travel trailer. There is no hook ups. Can run generator until 11pm."
Anticipate road limitations: Fallen trees and rough terrain can block larger vehicles. One LBL FS154 visitor warned: "The roads coming out to this site are graded graveled roads, and do not require 4WD, however some of the roads are still blocked by trees felled, so you won't want to be dragging a trailer behind you when you turn a curve to see a fallen oak."
Consider road-friendly alternatives: Some areas offer better RV access. A visitor to Demumber's Bay noted: "This road is a paved Forest road that leads to a boat ramp. There are multiple dispersed camping spots available along the way (closer to the bay mostly)."
