Camping options near Eddyville, Kentucky span across the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, covering 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range. The region's shoreline terrain ranges from flat beaches to wooded hills with elevation changes of 20-50 feet between waterfront and upper campsites.
What to do
Paddle the protected coves: Energy Lake Campground provides canoe and kayak rentals directly from the campground. "I did fun paddle boarding with the little dog in the inlet right off this campsite. This is a large campground with lots of activities," reports one visitor to Hillman Ferry Campground.
Explore Canal Loop Trail: Access this popular biking and hiking path from several campgrounds in the area. "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 a reviewer at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Visit local attractions: "Make sure to visit the Nature Center and Elk and Bison Prairie. Canoeing on Energy Lake, we spotted bald eagle and beaver dens among other wildlife," suggests a camper at Hillman Ferry. The Elk and Bison Prairie costs $5 per vehicle and offers wildlife viewing opportunities within a 15-minute drive from most area campgrounds.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites allow direct water access for boats and swimming. "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. Lots of other campers had their boats moored along the shoreline," mentions a visitor to Hillman Ferry Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Nickell Branch Campground offers multiple shoreline fishing spots. "The campground is near the Barkley Canal that connects the two lakes making for lots of boating and paddling options," reports one camper, noting the variety of water recreation possibilities.
Clean facilities: "The bathrooms were very clean for camp restrooms. The showers were in their own rooms, so that was really nice. Great water pressure and it wasn't a push button shower like some campgrounds have!" shares a visitor at Energy Lake Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds feature variable terrain. "We stayed at site D3 over Memorial Day weekend. I was pretty nervous when we first saw the site, it was literally on a hillside. We have two small kids and were with family (in adjacent D4) so we really hoped for a site with flat space for the kids to play in," notes a camper at Energy Lake Campground.
Reserve early for waterfront: Popular lakeside sites fill quickly, especially in summer. "Reserve WAY ahead if you want one of the premium sites. Of course what you consider premium may not be what I consider premium.....which at this campground they would have us both covered by the variety of site types and locations," advises a visitor at Canal Campground.
Seasonal considerations: "The area experiences significant summer heat, making early morning or evening walks with dogs advisable during peak summer months." One camper at Canal Campground reports: "The sites are all situated in the woods near the water so none are particularly good for solar."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better play facilities than others. "The playground was pretty disappointing with only a couple swings, a hot metal slide and a climbing bar. The beach was far from impressive with basically gravel as half of the beach," notes a visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Protected swimming areas: "The small designated swimming area is convenient but the water was so high that there wasn't any sand," reports a camper at Eureka Campground, highlighting the importance of checking water conditions for swimming with children.
Pet-friendly sites: For families camping with dogs, Hurricane Creek Campground offers accommodating spaces. "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. Bathhouse is very clean and kept up," shares a regular visitor.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords required: "RV sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Many sites have great view of the lake. I recommend renting a golf cart. This is a very large campground," advises a visitor to KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point.
Unlevel sites: "Pads are not level. 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," warns a camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Hookup locations: "Be water and electrical hookups are so far away from the camping site pads they will let you drop your RV camper or whatever any place in the grass so it's more convenient than going and having to buy hose and electrical extensions," notes a visitor to Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park.
