Land Between the Lakes provides over 260 miles of undeveloped shoreline across 170,000 acres of wilderness between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The area's mix of oak-hickory forests and open grasslands sits at elevations between 350 to 650 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures average 40°F while summer camping can reach into the 90s with high humidity, making water access important during peak season.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: The region offers multiple access points for horseback riding near Grand Rivers, with Wranglers Campground serving as the primary equestrian camping destination. "Fun experience staying with all the horses! I didn't really know it was a thing to bring horses to camp and ride them on the trails! Loved it," notes Tessa C. from Wranglers Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake access points around Grand Rivers provide excellent fishing locations without requiring a full-hookup site. "Good fishing! I love the perks of Prizer! Worth the cost!" states a camper at KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point. The campground offers both shoreline fishing and boat access.
Water recreation: Beyond horseback riding, the lakes offer multiple water activities. "The campground is large enough that you can get some exercise right on site, jog, walk or bike. OR jump in your water craft from the boat ramp/dock within the campground and maneuver into either lake for site seeing, fishing and other water fun," explains Shelly S. from Canal Campground.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded options: For campers seeking privacy away from busier equestrian areas, Cravens Bay offers primitive camping without the crowds. "We stayed here in the middle of July in 2019! Wow was it hot! It also had a bit of flooding, however it made it easier for our girls to launch their kayaks and swim. Great spot for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect!" reports Benjamin C. from Cravens Bay.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds around Grand Rivers cater to families with dedicated facilities. "Most sites have great views of Lake Barkley! Large camp store with a restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza, beer and sodas... Golf cart rentals and the marina has boat rentals," shares Brad S. at KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point.
Multiple water views: The peninsula location creates abundant waterfront camping. "The campground is in the shape of a peninsula so there are many campsites with water views and access. The bathrooms and showers are very clean and the road in is very nice," explains Chris O. from Canal Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Turkey hunting season impacts availability at campgrounds throughout the region. "If you choose to stay here, opt for the second floor room and preferably the marina side. It seems less buggy," advises J K. from Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Site conditions vary: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires planning. "Overall a beautiful park that is one of my wife's favorites. I'm really surprised that all sites were paved with such bad slopes. If the state would come back in and level the sites then pave this would be a jewel," notes John R. from Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Alternative equestrian options: Beyond the main horse camping areas, additional options exist for riders. "We stopped here on my way back home splitting up a 14 hour drive. The campsite was clean and had a good size. Each campsite has fire pit, tent pad and picnic table," reports Taylor W. from Canal Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families should consider campgrounds with built-in recreation options. "We really enjoyed this place. Its pricey but they have a million activities for the price. The campsites are all beautiful and are either close or directly on the water," shares Karen L. from KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point.
Beach access considerations: Public beaches can get crowded during peak season. "Swimming beach very nice...Beach is free to public so very crowded and some elements are not family friendly," explains John R. from Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Camp layout awareness: Some campgrounds have extensive layouts requiring transportation. "Spots are pretty close together but fine for big rigs...Horses neigh, lots of barking dogs and some rowdy late night campers. If you are looking for a quiet getaway reconsider," advises Tessa C. from Wranglers Campground.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Many campsites have utilities placed at awkward distances. "The sites are hard to back in with a camper, we had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together," warns Erin R. about Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park campgrounds.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site locations before booking. "Sites 49-51 are mislabeled online. Booked a pullthru spot on 49 but it wasn't. Campground was pretty full and we weren't offered a lot to correct that the website was wrong," cautions Tessa C. from Wranglers Campground.
Golf cart rentals: Consider renting a cart for easier movement around larger equestrian campgrounds. "The area is feels like you stepped back in time. You'll never want to leave because everyone is so nice...The campground is big enough for golf carts and small enough to walk to the beach from any side," notes Chris O. from Canal Campground.
