Top Tent Camping near Dawson Springs, KY
Searching for a tent campsite near Dawson Springs? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Dawson Springs. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Kentucky tent camping excursion.
Best Tent Sites Near Dawson Springs, KY (26)
1. Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
7 Reviews•29 Photos•63 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
2. Taylor Bay Campground
8 Reviews•49 Photos•60 SavesThe campground is located at the edge of the Environment Education Waterfowl Refuge on Taylor Bay of Lake Barkley. Called a "back country" campground, it is primarily used by hunters and anglers and features great waterfowl watching. Boats can be tied up at some of the lakefront sites. The campground has two sections. One section is to the right of campground's entrance and features very shady sites tucked into a heavy stand of mixed hardwood trees stretching up the hillside. The second section is to the left and has more open sites scattered around a loop. These sites are along the shore and have a view of Taylor Bay. Seasonal camp site leases are available for some sites through an annual, open-to-the-public, lottery. Contact LBL for more information. Possible day trips are the North and South Welcome Stations, Golden Pond Visitor Center, the Planetarium, Elk and Bison Prairie, Woodlands Nature Station, and The Homeplace.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
$10 / night
3. Old Boy Scout Campground
5 Reviews•18 Photos•45 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
4. Demumber's Bay
5 Reviews•22 Photos•64 SavesYou may camp almost anywhere in Land Between the Lakes (LBL). A Basic Camping Permit is required for each person 18 and over when camping in Basic Camping Facilities. A Dispersed Camping Permit is required when camping in non-designated areas of the recreation area. Both permits currently cost $50 for annual permit and $10 for a three-day permit and can be purchased https://www.landbetweenthelakes.us/reservations/ or any LBL facility. Please note that these permits do not apply when camping at Self-Service Campgrounds.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
5. Sugar Bay Campground
4 Reviews•1 Photo•26 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. LBL FS154 - Dispersed
2 Reviews•13 Photos•39 SavesYou may camp almost anywhere in Land Between the Lakes. A Basic Camping Permit is required for each person 18 and over when camping in Basic Camping Facilities. A Dispersed Camping Permit is required when camping in non-designated areas of the recreation area. Both permits currently cost $50 for an annual permit and $10 for a 3-day permit and can be purchased online or any of our facilities. Please note that these permits do not apply when camping at Self-Service Campgrounds.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
8. Smith Bay Campground
4 Reviews•20 Photos•35 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
9. Meschan Bridge Ramp
2 Reviews•11 Photos- Tents
- Toilets
10. Tower Rock Campground
6 Reviews•28 Photos•47 SavesLocated along the banks of the Ohio River, Tower Rock Campground offers beautiful scenery and close proximity to water activities like fishing and boating. The 1/4 mile trail can be accessed near the boat launch. Be aware this area is prone to flooding when river levels fluctuate.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Dawson Springs
542 Reviews of 26 Dawson Springs Campgrounds
Abraham
Guide
Ginger Bay
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)
- LLisa M.
Scout
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
- LLisa M.Scout
Twin Lakes Campground
Planning to camp there
This will be the next campground to go
Kenda A.Guide
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.
- ssusan M.Scout
Diamond Lake Resort Campground
Diamond Lake Resort Owensboro, KY
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.
- JJames W.
Traveler
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.Guide
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.Scout
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
Jeremy K.Guide
KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
Great week in May
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.
Siegfried M.Guide
Cave-in-Rock State Park
Awesome Campground
Was the only one there $ 20 with Electricity, what a Deal Steve is a great Host Also had free Music….. Cicadas
- EEmily S.Traveler
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.
- GGeorge L.Scout
COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground
Nice campground, disgusting bathroom.
Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.
lowrent0321Traveler
Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access
Quite, Private.
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.
Angela C.
Ranger
Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
Great overnight!
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!
- AAndrea L.Traveler
LBL FS-326
Lovely, quiet spot!
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.
- sseanTraveler
LBL FS154 - Dispersed
Several Nice Spots
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
- jjulia B.Scout
Energy Lake Campground
Serene bliss at the lake
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.
- WWendy T.Guide
Cypress Lakes RV Park
Looks are deceiving
Mostly seasonal and permanent with a few spots for weekly and overnight. All sites are level, gravel with concrete patios and fire rings. The staff makes you feel like a friend immediately. Laundry is 1.50 per machine and the showers are large and clean. Interstate 24 is half a mile from this campground and some of the best restaurants in the area are within walking distance.
Randy S.Guide
Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Redd Hollow Campground
Great dispersed campground
Great dispersed campground. Approx 1-1/2 miles off the highway down a one lane gravel road. Approx 30 sites. Sites are gravel and pretty level. At least half of the sites have a view of the lake. All sites have fire rings and picnic tables. Definitely would like to go back and camp there again. Were there with a 26 foot towable.
Anna M.Guide
Energy Lake Campground
Very Noisy and Camp Sites Stacked Closely
We usually start camping in November since the campgrounds are usually getting closer to empty. This place was packed with people hunting and fishing. The camp sites are so close together that you can hear the people talking at their campsite next to you even when they are talking at a very calm conversational level. People were letting their kids run wild until about 10pm then you could hear a pin drop it got so quiet. However, by 3 am the place starts hopping. People getting in and out of their cars, doors closing and cars driving off in the gravel, RV doors opening and closing, gravel crunching under foot as people walk to and from the bathroom. Two women stood outside our tent (but at their camp site) at 5am chatting it up and opening and closing and opening and closing the car doors for over half an hour. If you can function on 5 hours of sleep and don't mind hearing everything everyone around you says in clear detail it isn't a bad place. The bathrooms are clean and warm in the winter.
Scott B.Scout
Cravens Bay Campground
Super nice campground.
We basically had the place to ourselves. Just a couple boat launchers was it. Dark skies, lots of stars. There are seasonal showers, ice and firewood sales. Boat ramps, day use areas... it was really nice. I would definitely come back here again. Good cell coverage too.
- Scott B.Scout
Sugar Bay Campground
Very nice
We stayed here November 2023, site 9 up on the hill. Nice and quiet, beautiful stars at night and good cell service if you needed it.
Pam C.Scout
Eureka
Just Great!
Some of the most beautiful waterfront sites we’ve been to. Most of the water sites were very big, with several being huge. Lots of separation between most of them, fresh gravel, mostly level. Some of the sites are elevated and the pads have nice guardrails so that kids can’t access the rip rap and fall. Very quiet when we were there, and hosts were great as well. Had Consumere Cellular and mostly had 2 bars, easily enough to stream.
- lowrent0321Traveler
Pisgah Bay - DFWR
Quite seclusion
Very clean well maintained campsite with a vault toilet, no hook up's for RV's or campers. Several areas for camp fires already set up, as well as a boat ramp. We were able to pull right up to the lake and secure our own private area, major score there. Road leading into the camp does have a few dips here and there one needs to be aware of. I was able to get a 36' pull behind camper back here without four wheel drive but wouldn't try that during the raining season or if the road was wet. Only two other campers where present but we didn't notice due to there being enough space for privacy. There is also (I believe) a camp manager on site as well. If you like seclusion and quite this is the site.
- Thomas J. T.Traveler
Eureka
👍COE Camping
Beautiful lake front site on Lake Barkley. Eureka, Kay
Pam & Steve S.Guide
Hurricane Creek
Beautiful
Easy booking. Easy check in. Roads getting into park were narrow. But worth the trip. The campground is very clean. Easy hookup for electric and water. Except there was someone plugged into our electric when we got there. It was for a boat that belonged to campers up the road that didn’t have lake front. Other than that this place is awesome. We plan to come back when we can stay longer.
- MMaggie C.
LegendHurricane Creek
Love this place!
Nice campground right on the lake. Family friendly, lots of children on their scooters. Many campers had boats for lake recreation. Some sites can be hard to back into, especially #39 where I broke the stabilizer jack on the railroad tie campsite border. Recommend the sites on the water, with the exception of #22 & 23 which also looked very difficult to get into. Downside of the water sites is that most have very little shade. Bathrooms are decent, and handicap accessible. Shower water was lukewarm at best but it was so hot that wasn’t an issue. Did find a few ticks, but mosquitos were surprisingly scarce.
Guide to Dawson Springs
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.
What to do
- Hiking: Explore the trails at Energy Lake Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The views were spectacular—especially the sunset." Another camper enjoyed the "hiking trails, paddle boating, canoeing, and kayaking."
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Hurricane Creek, are right on the lake, making it easy to cast a line. A reviewer noted, "Nice campground right on the lake. Family-friendly, lots of children on their scooters."
- Wildlife Watching: Campers at Canal - Lake Barkley often spot deer and other wildlife. One camper said, "Tons of deer, and skunks, but they don’t bother you."
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Hillman Ferry Campground, one visitor remarked, "The bathrooms were very clean. The showers were okay."
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Piney Campground said, "The site was spacious and clean. Plenty of room for our 30' travel trailer."
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At RJourney Clarksville RV Resort, one reviewer noted, "The employees are so nice and so helpful."
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There is no potable water on site."
- Busy on Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A camper at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
- Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor to Jackson Falls noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and just a little bumpy."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. Hillman Ferry Campground has a playground that kids enjoy. One parent said, "We rode our bikes all over the place and enjoyed the playground and lake."
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or canoes for extra fun. A camper at Energy Lake Campground mentioned, "We were only able to stay one night but it was the reset we needed."
- Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outdoor activities. A visitor at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park said, "The views here are breathtaking."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Levels: Some sites can be uneven. A reviewer at Clarksville RV Resort mentioned, "Our site was in the row nearest the interstate, which are overnighter pull-throughs."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving, as some campgrounds may not have stores. A camper at Hurricane Creek noted, "There was someone plugged into our electric when we got there."
- Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds near highways can be noisy. A visitor at Canal - Lake Barkley said, "The roads to the sites have a lot of curves; be careful not to clip your trailer on a tree."
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
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dawson Springs, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dawson Springs, KY is Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access with a 4.7-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Dawson Springs, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Dawson Springs, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.