Best Camping near Gilbertsville, KY

Gilbertsville is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Gilbertsville camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Gilbertsville, KY (141)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground

    1. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    149 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Hillman Ferry Campground offers 374 well-defined lake front and wooded sites capable of handling a variety of camping units from tents to large motor homes. Basic, electric, water, and sewer sites are available. Campers have access to modern facilities, including a large swimming area, archery range, ball field, bike trails, campfire amphitheater, hiking trails, two boat ramps, fishing dock, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the summer season we offer recreation programs for all ages.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley

    2. Canal - Lake Barkley

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    63 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Overview

    Situated along a peninsula between the lush shorelines of Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, Canal Campground offers modern camping and provides the ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Barkley Dam and boats traveling through the canal from the comfort of their campsite. The campground faces Barkley Lake, and the shore of Kentucky Lake is a brisk one-mile walk across the canal.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Canal Campground is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Eagle nests can be spotted throughout the grounds, and its not unlikely for visitors to encounter deer and other wildlife. A short hiking trail allows campers to enjoy the outdoor scenery at their leisure. Fishing is also a popular pastime, and during warm months bass and catfish are plentiful in both lakes.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, as part of a dam project at the Cumberland River, spans 134 miles along the Kentucky landscape, offering countless recreational activities to visitors. The canal connects Lake Barley with Kentucky Lake, forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country.

    Nearby Attractions

    Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $256 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka

    3. Eureka

    16 Reviews
    48 Photos
    92 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Overview

    Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.

    Recreation

    Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Energy Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek

    5. Hurricane Creek

    19 Reviews
    93 Photos
    124 Saves
    Cadiz, Kentucky

    Overview

    Hurricane Creek Campground sits along the beautiful Lake Barkley, providing plenty of fresh air and recreation opportunities. While away the hours boating or hiking on shore. Anglers a plenty come in search of catfish and trophy bass. Wildlife spotting includes white-tailed deer and raccoons.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Hurricane Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor activities.

    Natural Features

    The campground is nestled in the wooded, rolling hills of southwestern Kentucky. Lake Barkley covers 57,900 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline and offers comfortable and refreshing water temperatures in summer months.

    Nearby Attractions

    The three-mile Lake Barkley State Park Trail is highly recommended. Plus the Lyon County Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, makes for an enjoyable visit. Items in the museum highlight the area's immigration history dating back to 1865.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    6. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    52 Reviews
    208 Photos
    498 Saves
    Karbers Ridge, Illinois

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    8. Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    Calvert City, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickell Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point

    10. KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point

    14 Reviews
    97 Photos
    69 Saves
    Cadiz, Kentucky

    Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Barkley in the Kentucky Lakes region, Prizer Point Marina & Resort and Kentucky Lakes KOA is the area’s finest destination for family getaways featuring condos, cabins, RV camping, boating and family recreation.

    Welcome to our stunning campground resort on the shores of Lake Barkley near the Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area. All RV site rates include 6 guests, Deluxe and Primitive Tent includes 4 guests, extra guests are $10/person/day, 5yrs and under are free. We are pet friendly!

    Located near the Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky Lakes KOA Campground at Prizer Point Marina & Resort offers breathtaking views, relaxation, and outdoor recreation. This western Kentucky Campground is Big Rig friendly and welcomes pets. RV and Campsites are spacious and shaded. Complete with a fire ring for marshmallow roasts and story telling under the stars and amazing views of Lake Barkley.

    Our Pull Through Sites are pull through, full hook-up, waterfront sites; See Video. Your front door opens to the beauty of Lake Barkley where you can relax or fish from the shore. These sites take advantage of our location on the intercoastal waterway. Premium Lake Side Water & Electric sites are also available. Prizer Point offers a free honey wagon service every other day on all non-tent campsites for your convenience. See Video

    All RV sites include water, cable TV, 50 or 30 Amp electric, and rates are based on 6 people. Only one camping unit is allowed per site, unless approved in advance by management. Only two vehicles are allowed per site and overflow parking area is provided.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 141 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Gilbertsville

Recent Reviews in Gilbertsville

814 Reviews of 141 Gilbertsville Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Built on an Old Golf Course

    We’d seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground (CG) many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base and wanted to check this CG out. We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go. We checked in at the little office and were given the choice of pull through sites with FHUs 12 or 21. We chose site 21. The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice. The water pressure was good around 50 psi. Their WiFi was very good. There are mature trees here and there in the CG, so satellite should not be an issue. We got two bars on Verizon. Each of the bath houses have a washer and dryer. Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones even though there were plenty of sites open in the upper 26- 50 site area. If we come back, we’ll know where to ask for a site. They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing. There's no formal dog area, but there are paved trails around the large CG area, which made it nice to walk our dogs.

  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Nov. 27, 2024

    Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    Pleasant campground on a small lake

    Quiet setting by a pretty lake. Stayed only one night on a road trip. Paducah a nice town, visited the quilt museum. Nice toilets and showers.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Birmingham Point Campground
    Nov. 16, 2024

    Birmingham Point Campground

    Nice Lake Views

    We found this campground using Google Maps looking for different campground (CG) options. As this was the first week of November on a Tuesday, we did not have any trouble getting reservations to include getting site 25 that we’d seen recommended in reviews. When making our reservation, we were told by the owner, Angie, to follow our GPS to the end of the road where you will find the CG. Angie met us and we were escorted to pull through site 25 with water and electric(50/30/20 AMP). This pull through is a large half moon. It was difficult to get straight on the rig but we made it work for an overnighter. We would not recommended trying to anything longer than a 38’ rig into the site due to the turn to get out. We needed levelers on the door side. Once we were set up, we were delighted with this site’s lake view. The water pressure was good at about 50 psi and no issues with the 50 AMP service. We got three bars on Verizon. We could have put out satellite, but did not for this overnight stay. They have a restroom/bath house, but we didn’t use it. This CG is mostly full of seasonals. We noticed that golf carts are the thing here. As we were here during the week, there was very little CG activity. However, we can guess this place is quite festive during the summer months and associated weekends. From what gather from their website and saw, they keep about 10 sites available for short term stays(max 28). Of the 76 sites total, the only pull through was site 25. We had to maneuver to get out of the site with our running over the railroad tie border. We wouldn’t go in there with anything over 38’. The sites here vary a lot on how close they are to each other. The website states the sites are 50 feet long, which is probably correct. We enjoyed the lake view from our site plus we saw deer and eagles in the CG during our overnight stay. The owner Angie, was very nice and accommodating.

  • Jeff F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paris Landing State Park Campground
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Paris Landing State Park Campground

    Close to marina

    Close to the marina it's a hard walk uphill both ways to the bathroom but they are very nice and well kept. Big open areas for children to play overall very good state park campground

  • Ai-Ai T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Demumber's Bay

    Extreme bug activity - late August

    Pulled in around dusk and there was a deserted camper there, about 4 pull in sites for rooftop campers. The bugs were insane and 40 must’ve flown into my car when i opened the door for a split second. Other than that, good stop for dispersed campers. Bathrooms were vault.

  • Abraham The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area

    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)

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Bay Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    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

  • Wanda E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outback RV Resort
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Outback RV Resort

    Great stay

    This park was very quiet, easy to access and owners were very friendly. The grounds we very well kept. Showers and bathrooms immaculate. We will definitely stop again in the future.

  • Twan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    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.

  • Melissa C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground

    Beautiful Modern Campground with lots of activities

    Piney Campground is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is wildly popular among locals and travelers alike. Lots to do for kids - bike paths, basketball court, multiple playgrounds, etc. Beautiful views of Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River, nice campground store.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aurora Oaks Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bumpus Mills
    Jun. 11, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May. 22, 2024

    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

  • Dante V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May. 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Redd Hollow
    May. 7, 2024

    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.



Guide to Gilbertsville

Camping near Gilbertsville, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking trails, with one reviewer mentioning, "Nice hiking trails" at Energy Lake Campground.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or fishing at the lakes. One family at Hurricane Creek said, "We went horseback riding and canoeing!"
  • Playgrounds and Family Fun: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A visitor at Hillman Ferry Campground noted, "We enjoyed the playground and lake."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Energy Lake Campground stated, "Bathrooms were clean, electricity worked great."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Fern Lake Campground said, "The family who owns this are the nicest."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space for their setups. A review for Hurricane Creek highlighted, "Sites are well spaced. Some nice lakeside sites."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A family at Hillman Ferry Campground warned, "Please be aware there is very little cell phone service."
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds have specific open seasons. For example, Energy Lake Campground is open from March 1 to November 30.
  • Crowded During Peak Times: Popular campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Barkley State Resort Park mentioned, "Sites are close together, most with a pitch."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for campgrounds that offer playgrounds and clean facilities. One parent at Hillman Ferry Campground appreciated the "playground and lake" for family fun.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or canoes for extra fun. A family at Energy Lake Campground enjoyed "hiking, swimming, and hanging out by the campfire."
  • Check for Pet Policies: If you’re bringing pets, make sure the campground allows them. A reviewer at Hurricane Creek noted, "Family friendly, lots of children on their scooters."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A visitor at Fern Lake Campground mentioned, "Big rig friendly, drinking water, electric hookups."
  • Check Hookup Availability: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park noted, "Pads are on steep slopes."
  • Be Mindful of Site Levels: Some sites may not be level, so check reviews for specifics. A reviewer at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park said, "The entire thing could use a good cleaning and maintenance."

Camping near Gilbertsville, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Gilbertsville, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Gilbertsville, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near Gilbertsville, KY and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Gilbertsville, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gilbertsville, KY is Hillman Ferry Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gilbertsville, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Gilbertsville, KY.

  • What parks are near Gilbertsville, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Gilbertsville, KY that allow camping, notably Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and Barkley Lake.