Best Tent Camping near Dawson Springs, KY

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers numerous tent camping options within 30 miles of Dawson Springs, Kentucky. Primitive tent campgrounds like Cravens Bay and Old Boy Scout Campground provide lakeside settings with varying levels of amenities. LBL FS154 offers dispersed backcountry tent camping on a small peninsula with lake views, while Smith Bay Campground features tent sites spaced along the perimeter with good privacy between sites. Forest Service Road 343 provides free dispersed tent camping with several sites situated near the water.

Most tent campsites in the region are set on gravel, dirt, or grass surfaces with minimal grading. Campers should bring all necessary water, as potable sources are limited or nonexistent at many locations. Vault toilets are available at established campgrounds like Smith Bay and Cravens Bay, but dispersed sites require proper backcountry sanitation practices. A dispersed camping permit is required for backcountry tent camping in Land Between the Lakes, available online or at visitor centers. Sites typically include fire rings where permitted, though firewood may not be provided. The 14-day stay limit is standard but enforcement varies by location.

According to one camper, "Land Between the Lakes tends to be very back country with no cell service, and you have to travel at least 20 miles to a small town if you need anything, so pack in everything you need." Walk-in tent sites at Smith Bay are particularly popular with tent campers due to their proximity to the water, with some featuring pebble beaches. Sites at Old Boy Scout Campground are described as "not for the faint of heart" with several rock fire rings in different areas suitable for group camping. Midweek visits typically offer greater solitude, as reviewers note that smaller campgrounds like Smith Bay "tend to be very quiet midweek but fill up on weekends."

Best Tent Sites Near Dawson Springs, Kentucky (22)

    1. Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

    7 Reviews
    Kuttawa, KY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 924-2000

    "This gem in the Land Between the Lakes Rec area is a great spot to set up camp if you don’t mind the lack of showers."

    "Great spot for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect! Highly recommend for tent camping."

    2. Dryden Day Campground

    1 Review
    Eddyville, KY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 388-0289

    3. Old Boy Scout Campground

    5 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    28 miles

    "It is within a half mile (or less) of Dispersed LB-154, and mimics it, except there still exists the old road coming in and circling around."

    "This is a primitive site, and is considered back country camping, meaning you will have to obtain a back country pass from the Golden Pond Visitor Center."

    4. Meschan Bridge Ramp

    2 Reviews
    Cadiz, KY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    5. LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 525-7077

    "to be dragging a trailer behind you when you turn a curve to see a fallen oak. "

    "The pit toilt at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away. Both spots had fire pits"

    6. Eddy Creek Access

    1 Review
    Eddyville, KY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    7. Sugar Bay Campground

    4 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 924-2000

    "Right on the water with access to several other things close by. Spots are in the grass and nothing fancy but perfect for us that love to Tent camp and enjoy natural comforts over amenities."

    "No showers or bathrooms, but each camp spot has a table and fire pit. Service was pretty much none existent, but that doesn’t bother me. No body was camping anywhere near us either"

    8. Smith Bay Campground

    4 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 924-2000

    "Kentucky has a Dollar General!)"

    "It's a bit off the beaten path, on a gravel off-shoot from the Birmingham Ferry Campground drive. (Usually, we will check for a spot at BF 1st, and then head to SB if all the prime spots are taken."

    9. Lake Mauzy East

    3 Reviews
    Morganfield, KY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 389-3580

    "The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets—everything you need for a comfortable stay."

    "Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place."

    10. Forest Service Rd 343

    8 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    37 miles

    "Unfortunately the best one on the water was taken when we showed up but we set up in a different site and had a wonderful night."

    "Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place. The site is right on the lake an doesn't get any curious cars just driving by."

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Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Dawson Springs, KY

564 Reviews of 22 Dawson Springs Campgrounds



Guide to Dawson Springs

Tent camping near Dawson Springs, Kentucky, offers a serene escape into nature, with various campgrounds providing unique amenities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for tent camping near Dawson Springs

  • Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access is a well-reviewed spot known for its secluded sites and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking privacy while camping.
  • Smith Bay Campground features a rocky beach ideal for kayaking, making it a great choice for water lovers looking to paddle and explore.
  • Sugar Bay Campground allows swimming in the lake, providing a refreshing way to cool off after a day of hiking or fishing.

Local activities for tent campers

  • At Dryden Day Campground, visitors can enjoy beautiful cabins and a water view, making it a fantastic base for boating and fishing adventures.
  • Meschan Bridge Ramp is a popular launch point for kayakers, offering easy access to Lake Barkley via a large creek bed.
  • Old Boy Scout Campground provides a unique opportunity for dispersed camping right on the water, ideal for those wanting to fish or simply relax by the shore.

Tent campers like these nearby features

  • Eddy Creek Access offers a tranquil setting with access to fishing spots, perfect for anglers looking to catch their dinner.
  • Linton Recreation Area features a beach and playground, making it a family-friendly option for those camping with kids.
  • Tower Rock Campground provides stunning river views and hiking opportunities, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

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 22 tent camping locations near Dawson Springs, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.