Campsites near Benton, Kentucky cluster around the region's two vast bodies of water: Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, connected by a 1.75-mile-long canal. The terrain consists primarily of rolling hills covered in hardwood forests that reach down to the shorelines. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 55-75°F. Most primitive camping areas require backwoods permits that cost $30 annually, available at visitor centers throughout Land Between the Lakes.
What to do
Paddleboarding with pets: At Hillman Ferry Campground, the protected coves provide calm waters for beginners. "I had fun paddle boarding with the little dog in the inlet right off this campsite. This is a large campground with lots of activities, but I didn't do any. We stayed right at the campsite," reports Maggie C.
Mountain biking on premier trails: Access established trail systems directly from your campsite. "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," notes Melissa T. from Hillman Ferry Campground.
Visit historic attractions: The Land Between the Lakes area contains several historic sites within a 30-minute drive of most campgrounds. "The area is feels like you stepped back in time. You'll never want to leave because everyone is so nice," writes Chris O. about his stay at Canal Campground.
Disc golf: Some campgrounds offer courses on-site. "There's also a disc golf course tucked back off the main road," mentions Meagan L. about Hillman Ferry Campground, making it an easy activity for all skill levels.
What campers like
Lake views from elevated sites: Several campgrounds feature sites positioned on hills overlooking the water. "Site 64 was a bit difficult to back into but very level once you get in. I think it has some of the best views in the campground," shares Maggie C. about Hillman Ferry Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The forests around campsites host diverse wildlife. "We stayed in the woods and saw lots of deer, and skunks, but they don't bother you," notes Jessica F. about Canal Campground.
Evening atmosphere: Fireflies create natural light shows during summer months. "We were there in late June and the fireflies lit up the woods like twinkling Christmas lights, it was magical!" shares a camper from Eureka Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, mid-week visits offer the most peaceful experience. "It looked like a lot of campers come in on weekend and leave camp site during week. So nice!" reports Tom E. about his stay at Hillman Ferry.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects sites: Water levels can rise significantly after heavy rains. "I knew there was some rain forecast, but there was a ditch next to my site that I assumed would handle any runoff from the hill above. I was wrong. It rained rather heavily for about 4.5 hours and that little ditch couldn't handle it all," warns Eric K. from his experience at Sugar Bay Campground.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies widely across the region. "No WiFi or internet service. Cell signal in prior years have been spotty," notes a Hillman Ferry camper.
Insect preparation: Biting flies can be problematic in summer months. "There was so many biting flies. Literally drawing blood so my kids and family hated it," cautions Jesse S. about Sugar Bay Campground.
Campsite reservations: Popular waterfront sites book quickly, especially during warm months. "Reserve WAY ahead if you want one of the premium sites," advises Shelly S. about Canal Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated swimming areas: Some campgrounds maintain beaches specifically for swimming. "There is a swimming beach and beautiful views," reported a visitor about Birmingham Point Campground, though facilities vary in quality. "The beach was far from impressive with basically gravel as half of the beach," notes Nichole M. about Energy Lake Campground.
Playground quality varies: Inspect playground facilities before booking if traveling with small children. "The playground is old with just a metal slide and swings," mentions Erin R. about Energy Lake Campground.
Choose campgrounds with recreational programs: Several sites offer organized activities. "We stayed during Outdoor Kids Fest was the best. A wonderful campground with extremely welcoming and helpful staff from the minute we pulled up," shares Kerrie F. about her experience at Hillman Ferry.
Bring bikes: Most campgrounds feature paved or packed gravel roads suitable for cycling. "Very family friendly and lots of kids riding bikes and playing everywhere!" notes Melissa T. about Hillman Ferry.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Many sites position electrical hookups far from parking pads. "Electric hook up a bit far from camper. Needed to buy extension for 30-50 amp hookup," cautions a camper at Kenlake State Resort Park.
Site leveling challenges: Most campgrounds feature hilly terrain requiring substantial leveling. "Not level? Not so much. Unless you are a master truck driver, and pull a trailer less than 24', you are in trouble backing into most sites," warns a Kenlake camper.
Shared utility pedestals: Some campgrounds use shared utilities for multiple sites. "Sites on outer perimeter have water and electric, just bring enough hose and cords to hook up... they are on shared pedestals," advises Lawrence P. about Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads can be narrow and winding. "The access road to the site is very winding and somewhat narrow for a large rig," notes a camper about Eureka Campground.
