Best Camping near Calvert City, KY

Calvert City is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Calvert City. Find the best campgrounds near Calvert City, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Calvert City, KY (145)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground

    1. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    149 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Hillman Ferry Campground offers 374 well-defined lake front and wooded sites capable of handling a variety of camping units from tents to large motor homes. Basic, electric, water, and sewer sites are available. Campers have access to modern facilities, including a large swimming area, archery range, ball field, bike trails, campfire amphitheater, hiking trails, two boat ramps, fishing dock, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the summer season we offer recreation programs for all ages.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley

    2. Canal - Lake Barkley

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    63 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Overview

    Situated along a peninsula between the lush shorelines of Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, Canal Campground offers modern camping and provides the ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Barkley Dam and boats traveling through the canal from the comfort of their campsite. The campground faces Barkley Lake, and the shore of Kentucky Lake is a brisk one-mile walk across the canal.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Canal Campground is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Eagle nests can be spotted throughout the grounds, and its not unlikely for visitors to encounter deer and other wildlife. A short hiking trail allows campers to enjoy the outdoor scenery at their leisure. Fishing is also a popular pastime, and during warm months bass and catfish are plentiful in both lakes.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, as part of a dam project at the Cumberland River, spans 134 miles along the Kentucky landscape, offering countless recreational activities to visitors. The canal connects Lake Barley with Kentucky Lake, forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country.

    Nearby Attractions

    Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $256 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka

    3. Eureka

    16 Reviews
    48 Photos
    92 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Overview

    Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.

    Recreation

    Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    4. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    52 Reviews
    208 Photos
    497 Saves
    Karbers Ridge, Illinois

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek

    7. Hurricane Creek

    19 Reviews
    93 Photos
    124 Saves
    Cadiz, Kentucky

    Overview

    Hurricane Creek Campground sits along the beautiful Lake Barkley, providing plenty of fresh air and recreation opportunities. While away the hours boating or hiking on shore. Anglers a plenty come in search of catfish and trophy bass. Wildlife spotting includes white-tailed deer and raccoons.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Hurricane Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor activities.

    Natural Features

    The campground is nestled in the wooded, rolling hills of southwestern Kentucky. Lake Barkley covers 57,900 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline and offers comfortable and refreshing water temperatures in summer months.

    Nearby Attractions

    The three-mile Lake Barkley State Park Trail is highly recommended. Plus the Lyon County Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, makes for an enjoyable visit. Items in the museum highlight the area's immigration history dating back to 1865.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    8. Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    Calvert City, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    9. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    14 Reviews
    33 Photos
    65 Saves
    Paducah, Kentucky

    We are a Good Sam Park and a family-owned campground that was established by Fern and Sam in 1977. Our beloved, Sam, passed away December 20, 2018. Greg and Deanna Bazzell are the second generation campground hosts who live on the property. Whether you want to spend the night or stay longer to visit or work in the area, we can accommodate you. From tents to the largest campers and motor homes we have a convenient site for you. Our entire team is committed to meeting your needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers.

    We would welcome the opportunity to accommodate your stay and deliver you the best service in the industry. ~ Greg and Deanna Bazzell

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $48 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
Showing results 1-10 of 145 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Calvert City

Recent Reviews in Calvert City

850 Reviews of 145 Calvert City Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Birmingham Point Campground
    Nov. 16, 2024

    Birmingham Point Campground

    Nice Lake Views

    We found this campground using Google Maps looking for different campground (CG) options. As this was the first week of November on a Tuesday, we did not have any trouble getting reservations to include getting site 25 that we’d seen recommended in reviews. When making our reservation, we were told by the owner, Angie, to follow our GPS to the end of the road where you will find the CG. Angie met us and we were escorted to pull through site 25 with water and electric(50/30/20 AMP). This pull through is a large half moon. It was difficult to get straight on the rig but we made it work for an overnighter. We would not recommended trying to anything longer than a 38’ rig into the site due to the turn to get out. We needed levelers on the door side. Once we were set up, we were delighted with this site’s lake view. The water pressure was good at about 50 psi and no issues with the 50 AMP service. We got three bars on Verizon. We could have put out satellite, but did not for this overnight stay. They have a restroom/bath house, but we didn’t use it. This CG is mostly full of seasonals. We noticed that golf carts are the thing here. As we were here during the week, there was very little CG activity. However, we can guess this place is quite festive during the summer months and associated weekends. From what gather from their website and saw, they keep about 10 sites available for short term stays(max 28). Of the 76 sites total, the only pull through was site 25. We had to maneuver to get out of the site with our running over the railroad tie border. We wouldn’t go in there with anything over 38’. The sites here vary a lot on how close they are to each other. The website states the sites are 50 feet long, which is probably correct. We enjoyed the lake view from our site plus we saw deer and eagles in the CG during our overnight stay. The owner Angie, was very nice and accommodating.

  • Jeff F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paris Landing State Park Campground
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Paris Landing State Park Campground

    Close to marina

    Close to the marina it's a hard walk uphill both ways to the bathroom but they are very nice and well kept. Big open areas for children to play overall very good state park campground

  • Ai-Ai T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Demumber's Bay

    Extreme bug activity - late August

    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. Other than that, good stop for dispersed campers. Bathrooms were vault.

  • Abraham The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area

    Nice spot on the water

    A few sites at a boat launch area.

    One large site before the main turnaround point and a couple by the water.

    Not a ton of space.

    4x4 or awd may come in handy leaving the sites (going back up the gravel hill)

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Bay Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sugar Bay Campground

    Swimming in the lake and eat lunch on the campsite

    Only stay for several hours,haven't spent the night yet,that will be planned next

  • Wanda E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outback RV Resort
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Outback RV Resort

    Great stay

    This park was very quiet, easy to access and owners were very friendly. The grounds we very well kept. Showers and bathrooms immaculate. We will definitely stop again in the future.

  • Twan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Taylor Bay Campground

    Beautiful LBL site

    This is lakefront with a vault toilet and no running water. On a Wednesday night everything was quiet and peaceful. It is a self serve campground.

  • Melissa C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground

    Beautiful Modern Campground with lots of activities

    Piney Campground is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is wildly popular among locals and travelers alike. Lots to do for kids - bike paths, basketball court, multiple playgrounds, etc. Beautiful views of Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River, nice campground store.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aurora Oaks Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Aurora Oaks Campground

    Nice, quiet and clean

    We stayed here in our tent. The lady who checked us in was exceptionally nice and the campsites were clean quiet and shady. The restrooms were spick and span. We would certainly stay here again.

  • Beth LeVar L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bumpus Mills
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Bumpus Mills

    An Okay Campground

    If you want a small affordable campground this is your place. The shower house could use for some regular cleaning. I’m not sure it was cleaned at all the time we were there. Not much to do in the area but fish unless you really want to explore outside of the campground.

    I learned after our time there our site is the worst with bugs. I thought the bugs were just extra because it had rained a lot but a friend told me to never book that site bc the bugs are always backs there. Our site also gets all the rain drained from the upper site. When we checked in the host did prepare us our site would flood for a few areas since rain was expected.

    The sunsets were fabulous!

  • Denton T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May. 22, 2024

    Union County Fair

    Kentucky Bike Ralley

    I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place

  • Dante V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May. 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Redd Hollow
    May. 7, 2024

    Redd Hollow

    Clean, quiet, beautiful

    Stayed 2 nights. Nearly empty, but we’ll kept camp. Best sunsets!!! Lake is beautiful. Many many lakeside spots. Lots of room.

  • Jon H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point Campground
    May. 6, 2024

    Oak Point Campground

    Nice national park campground

    Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything.
    There are primitive and electric (with water) sites. There are no sites with sewer hookup. There is a dump station at the entrance.

    Sites are generally level and well kept. Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front. There are some lake front spots that can be had. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.

    Large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles.

    Shower houses are kept clean, but as of this posting, they need some maintenance work.

    All in all, this is a must stop if you want to enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • steven B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground
    Apr. 27, 2024

    Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground

    No frills campground

    This is a no frills campground just off of I-69/I-24. Check in was completed online and our site was marked with our name. All sites are full hook up with concrete pads. The county has a trail system that begin just a few hundred feet down the road that is a nice stretch of the legs. The skeleton on the motorcycle welcoming you was interesting, maybe we were really early or really late for Halloween. The campground is in need of some TLC of the grounds. There also seems to be a lot of long term residents.



Guide to Calvert City

Camping near Calvert City, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Giant City State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter," making it a great spot for year-round hiking.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking and swimming at Energy Lake Campground. A reviewer shared, "The lake itself is man-made, and motorized watercraft are not permitted, which makes for great swimming."
  • Wildlife Viewing: The area is perfect for nature lovers. One camper at Hillman Ferry Campground noted, "The grounds were beautiful and very well kept," highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Shawnee Forest Campground said, "The bathrooms are very clean and well lit," which adds to the overall comfort of the stay.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One family at Piney Campground remarked, "The camping sites were absolutely beautiful and the general appearance was overall good," emphasizing the spaciousness.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. A reviewer at Hurricane Creek noted, "Nice camphost. Bathhouses could use an upgrade, but were clean and did the job."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "There is no potable water on site," so be sure to plan accordingly.
  • Busy Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A visitor at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday," to avoid the crowds.
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper at Jackson Falls noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy," so be prepared for a bit of a drive.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Hillman Ferry Campground, which has a playground and plenty of space for kids to run around. One parent said, "We spent a TON of time playing at the creek."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A family at Giant City State Park Campground enjoyed hiking and exploring, saying, "We really enjoyed our weekend here."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Energy Lake Campground mentioned, "Super easy check-in and check-out," which allows more time for family fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park warned, "This place was laid out and built by someone who hates RVs," so do your research before booking.
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be level. A camper at Hurricane Creek noted, "Some sites can be hard to back into," so be prepared for that.
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Be aware of the location of dump stations. A visitor at Shawnee Forest Campground mentioned, "No sanitary dump," so plan your trip accordingly.

Camping near Calvert City, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Calvert City, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Calvert City, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 145 campgrounds and RV parks near Calvert City, KY and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Calvert City, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Calvert City, KY is Hillman Ferry Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Calvert City, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Calvert City, KY.

  • What parks are near Calvert City, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Calvert City, KY that allow camping, notably Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and Barkley Lake.