Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park sits within the Western Kentucky Coal Field region at an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level. The area features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-95°F. Despite sitting on sloped terrain, the campgrounds throughout the region accommodate various camping styles with most offering electric and water hookups.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Energy Lake Campground offers canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the numerous coves within the no-wake lake. "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," writes Nichole M. at Energy Lake Campground.
Photography opportunities: Several state parks host seasonal photography contests. A reviewer at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park notes, "I was there for a fall photography contest it was a little too soon and there was very little color. This year 2019 makes the fifth year that I've gone to Pennyroyal for the fall photography contest."
Mountain biking: The Canal Loop Trail connects to Hillman Ferry Campground. "A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground!! The Canal Loop Trail and North South Trails are well known and revered by area mountain bikers and hikers," explains Melissa T. at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Elk and Bison Prairie located near Energy Lake Campground offers wildlife viewing for $5 per vehicle. "We didn't see elk that day but we saw a group of bison which was really cool," shares Ines M. while staying at Hurricane Creek.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campsites offer direct lake access for fishing and water activities. "Sites along the water are great. Full hook ups don't offer the view but plenty to do and very well priced," writes Michael F. about Hillman Ferry Campground.
Spacious campsites: Hurricane Creek offers well-spaced sites with adequate shade. "Our family has been camping here for 20 years now. We love it! Tent sites are right next to the beach so kids can go back and forth easily," mentions Heather M. at Hurricane Creek.
Multiple recreational options: Lake Barkley State Resort Park provides diverse activities beyond camping. "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," says Shelly S. about the variety of options.
Dog-friendly beaches: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Dawson Springs feature beach areas where pets are permitted near the water. "The small designated swimming area is convenient but the water was so high that there wasn't any sand," notes Heather S. about Eureka Campground.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region require significant leveling equipment. At Lake Barkley State Resort Park, one camper observed, "We 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."
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have unusual utility placement. "Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," advises Ann D. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty cellular coverage. "No WiFi or internet service. Cell signal in prior years have been spotty," reports a camper at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Campground selection based on rig size: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "Been here a few times it's a great place to visit they have a pool and do activities almost daily. Not for the big campers I think 35 is the biggest they allow," mentions Tc W. about Holiday Hills Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Best beach areas: Hurricane Creek features a beach area adjacent to tent sites. "Tent sites are right next to the beach so kids can go back and forth easily. Bathhouse is very clean and kept up," writes Heather M., highlighting the convenience for families with children.
Kid-friendly rental options: For families wanting more amenities, KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point offers multiple accommodation options. "We really enjoyed this place. It's pricey but they have a million activities for the price. The campsites are all beautiful and are either close or directly on the water," notes Karen L.
Campground activities: Many locations offer organized activities for children. "We loved our visit to this KOA! Waterpark in the summer, boating activities, lake front sites. Countless activities for the kids and the pools are nice too!" shares Kristen about Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point KOA.
Playground facilities: Energy Lake Campground has playground equipment, though some campers note limitations. "Downfall is the beach is muddy and rocky and the playground is old with just a metal slide and swings," writes a visitor to Energy Lake.
Tips from RVers
Equestrian sites for non-horse campers: The equestrian campsites at Pennyrile offer better leveling options. "When I talked to the campground host, he was very pleasant and explained that you do not have to have a horse to camp in the equestrian sites. Those sites are level pull-through sites," explains a reviewer.
Extension cord requirements: Lake Barkley campers recommend bringing extra-long utility cords. "Electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises holly S. in a recent review.
Dump station timing: At Hurricane Creek, plan dump station use strategically. "Only one dump site, and it's a one-sided, one port, pull-through lane, so if you go at checkout/1-2pm, expect a 2-3 RV wait to dump," warns Stæven F.
Off-season camping benefits: For those seeking quieter experiences, consider camping during shoulder seasons. "We camped in off-season and the place was quite empty. Camp host told us it was always pretty quiet," shares Lynn A. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Legend
