Dawson Springs, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.
The park is situated in the middle of 14,000 plus acres of forest. We have a 56 acre lake with pedal boats and row boats. There are miles of hiking trails that meander through the forest. It is a great place to get back to nature. We also have an 18 hole golf course, tennis and basketball court, and a lodge with a full service dinning room. Equine Camping: Pennyrile Forest offers 8 pull-through campsites specifically designed for horse owners. These sites feature electric, water and sewer hook-ups. Each site has its own corresponding hitching posts for up to four horses, picnic table, lantern hanger & fire ring/grill combo. Horse campers have access to all campground amenities, which include bathhouses, laundry area and playgrounds. A new 1.25 mile horse trail near the campground connects horseback riders to the 40+ miles of horse trails on the adjacent Pennyrile State Forest.
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.
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.
From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Hurricane Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor activities.
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.
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.
$30 / night
This recreation area is part of Barkley Lake
Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Barkley in the Kentucky Lakes region, Prizer Point Marina & Resort and Kentucky Lakes KOA is the area’s finest destination for family getaways featuring condos, cabins, RV camping, boating and family recreation.
Welcome to our stunning campground resort on the shores of Lake Barkley near the Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area. All RV site rates include 6 guests, Deluxe and Primitive Tent includes 4 guests, extra guests are $10/person/day, 5yrs and under are free. We are pet friendly!
Located near the Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky Lakes KOA Campground at Prizer Point Marina & Resort offers breathtaking views, relaxation, and outdoor recreation. This western Kentucky Campground is Big Rig friendly and welcomes pets. RV and Campsites are spacious and shaded. Complete with a fire ring for marshmallow roasts and story telling under the stars and amazing views of Lake Barkley.
Our Pull Through Sites are pull through, full hook-up, waterfront sites; See Video. Your front door opens to the beauty of Lake Barkley where you can relax or fish from the shore. These sites take advantage of our location on the intercoastal waterway. Premium Lake Side Water & Electric sites are also available. Prizer Point offers a free honey wagon service every other day on all non-tent campsites for your convenience. See Video
All RV sites include water, cable TV, 50 or 30 Amp electric, and rates are based on 6 people. Only one camping unit is allowed per site, unless approved in advance by management. Only two vehicles are allowed per site and overflow parking area is provided.
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.
$10 / night
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.
Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.
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.
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.
$32 / night
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.
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.
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.
Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.
$256 / night
This recreation area is part of Barkley Lake
The park is situated in the middle of 14,000 plus acres of forest. We have a 56 acre lake with pedal boats and row boats. There are miles of hiking trails that meander through the forest. It is a great place to get back to nature. We also have an 18 hole golf course, tennis and basketball court, and a lodge with a full service dinning room. Equine Camping: Pennyrile Forest offers 8 pull-through campsites specifically designed for horse owners. These sites feature electric, water and sewer hook-ups. Each site has its own corresponding hitching posts for up to four horses, picnic table, lantern hanger & fire ring/grill combo. Horse campers have access to all campground amenities, which include bathhouses, laundry area and playgrounds. A new 1.25 mile horse trail near the campground connects horseback riders to the 40+ miles of horse trails on the adjacent Pennyrile State Forest.
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.
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.
From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Hurricane Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor activities.
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.
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.
$30 / night
Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Barkley in the Kentucky Lakes region, Prizer Point Marina & Resort and Kentucky Lakes KOA is the area’s finest destination for family getaways featuring condos, cabins, RV camping, boating and family recreation.
Welcome to our stunning campground resort on the shores of Lake Barkley near the Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area. All RV site rates include 6 guests, Deluxe and Primitive Tent includes 4 guests, extra guests are $10/person/day, 5yrs and under are free. We are pet friendly!
Located near the Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky Lakes KOA Campground at Prizer Point Marina & Resort offers breathtaking views, relaxation, and outdoor recreation. This western Kentucky Campground is Big Rig friendly and welcomes pets. RV and Campsites are spacious and shaded. Complete with a fire ring for marshmallow roasts and story telling under the stars and amazing views of Lake Barkley.
Our Pull Through Sites are pull through, full hook-up, waterfront sites; See Video. Your front door opens to the beauty of Lake Barkley where you can relax or fish from the shore. These sites take advantage of our location on the intercoastal waterway. Premium Lake Side Water & Electric sites are also available. Prizer Point offers a free honey wagon service every other day on all non-tent campsites for your convenience. See Video
All RV sites include water, cable TV, 50 or 30 Amp electric, and rates are based on 6 people. Only one camping unit is allowed per site, unless approved in advance by management. Only two vehicles are allowed per site and overflow parking area is provided.
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.
$10 / night
Legend
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.
Guide
Beautiful view. Vault toilet.well kept
Guide
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.
Guide
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)
Scout
Only stay for several hours,haven't spent the night yet,that will be planned next
Scout
This will be the next campground to go
Scout
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.
ScoutGreat spot.
Guide
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.
Legend
The campground(CG) is easy to get to off I-24. We checked in and proceeded unescorted to site 22 with FHUs. The utilities are centered on the gravel pad and it was nice to have two sewer holes as our rig has two black tanks. We needed to flush each tank well, as we were heading to our home base near St. Louis. The water pressure was good at 50 psi and we got 3 bars 5G. There are a lot of mature trees so satellite may be iffy. We did not put out our Starlink for this one-night stay. Their free WiFi was okay. They accommodate both short stays, transient workers, and permanent parties. Not sure we’d call this place a“resort,” but they do have a small dog park, pool, laundry, dump station, and propane fills. This was our second time overnighting at this park. The first time we were closer to the interstate and this time we were at the front of the CG. It did not matter as this CG has the most interstate noise of any we’ve stayed.
Scout
I once gave this locarion a 5 star review that I've since deleted. This was our 3rd visit. With new owners, much cutback on staff and available hours for activities. Why oh why do you close a main attraction, go carts and pizza, during the week and cut hours of go carts when they ARE open??? I'd been communicating with stsff and had expressed our grandson's excitement to return to the go carts. THAT was the perfect opportunity to tell me o substantially reduced hours. This campground caters to seasonal campers. They don't all respect quiet hours are zipping around on golf carts partying. We won't return.
Traveler
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.
Guide
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!
ScoutI 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
Guide
Stayed here for a week and it was great. Plenty to do to keep you busy. Nice pool with retractable roof. Playset for kids. Full service marina with boat rentals. Golf cart rentals as well.
Guide
Was the only one there $ 20 with Electricity, what a Deal Steve is a great Host Also had free Music….. Cicadas
Traveler
Stayed 2 nights. Nearly empty, but we’ll kept camp. Best sunsets!!! Lake is beautiful. Many many lakeside spots. Lots of room.
GuideThis 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.
Scout
Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.
Legend
We camped here with our pups to see the eclipse in Paducah. The area is not really pretty or scenic. You can walk to the dam from the campground but it's nothing super special to see. There is dead fish laying around everywhere and it also smells like it. The campsites are very confusing. There is no map anywhere, except online. Sometimes you can't even read the numbers on the piles. The bathhouse was pretty ok. It was cleaned daily and always stocked. The water pressure was very low. Our camp host was super awesome and nice. There are also no hiking trails close by. The town of Paducah was worth a visit, otherwise we would not camp there again.
Traveler
Very nice campground, better than what I expected. We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site. Cravens Bay is secluded and about a 2 mile drive off the main road running through LBL.
There is a attendant at the site that you have to check in with first who will let you know what sites are available and pay after you have chosen your site and settled in. The attendant station did have some snacks for sale as well ice, also in the event that you may need assistance with any problems at you camp site or even with your camper the attendant more than likely has the tools to help you.
The road leading into the campsite is paved but narrow, the roads at the campsite are well hard packed gravel and very narrow. Cravens Bay basically breaks down into two areas, the low ground (first sites upon entering) and the high ground (sites further in at the top of the hill), there are some sites scattered in-between these two areas but for the most part the largest campsites areas are the high and low ground sites. The sites in-between the two high and low ground areas are very private and two are definitely secluded.
We stay three days and during that time other than the occasional fisherman or the attendant driving by it was definitely very private and quite. There were some seasonal campers there who were very helpful and friendly (even cut up some timber for us to burn).
If you don't mind not having any hook ups and dry/boon docking with your camper Cravens Bay has a lot to offer in terms of privacy, peace, boating, fishing, and swimming. Defiantly for the nature lovers out there, nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning.
Ranger
We called from the road to get an overnight stop - the staff were super nice both on the phone and in person. When we arrived, the lady who checked us in gave me a coupon for the drive-in movie theater that was literally down the road. Normally, when we camp we arrive so late it’s impossible to take advantage of area attractions so we decided to go and can I tell you, it was awesome!!! The theater accommodated our camper and the food (cheese fries especially) at the snack stand was great. As far as the campground, our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake and close proximity to the playground. My kids also enjoyed the pool. Solid place to overnight!
Traveler
This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake. It was quiet most of the time. Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes. Otherwise, I felt safe and had a great time here!! The ground was flat and there was a lot of room. We were just passing through and needed somewhere quiet to sleep after two days of driving. There is a lot to do in this area! I hope I got the location right… it wouldn’t let me add the exact coordinates I saved when I was there.
Traveler
I stayed at two difderent spots in March 2024. You might need 4wd; it had rained all day before I got here and there were some rough/sloppy patches in the road. The pit toilt at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away. Both spots had fire pits
GuideWonderful locations all as you head to this particular spot.
Scout
We had so much fun at Energy Lake Campground. We were only able to stay one night but it was the reset we needed. Our pups loved it too! Bathrooms were clean, electricity worked great and the view was STELLAR! Super easy check in and check out.
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!
Camping near Dawson Springs, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Dawson Springs, Kentucky, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Dawson Springs, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Dawson Springs, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 119 campgrounds and RV parks near Dawson Springs, KY and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Dawson Springs, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dawson Springs, KY is Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park with a 4-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dawson Springs, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Dawson Springs, KY.
What parks are near Dawson Springs, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Dawson Springs, KY that allow camping, notably Barkley Lake and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
