Equestrian enthusiasts and outdoor lovers can explore several horse campgrounds near Hopkinsville, Kentucky, which sits at approximately 530 feet above sea level in the Pennyroyal Plateau region. The area features heavily wooded terrain with diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and over 240 bird species. Camping sites in this region typically remain open from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F during peak season.
What to Do
Fishing and water activities: Lake Barkley State Resort Park offers multiple fishing spots and water recreation options. "The campground has its own a boat ramp and no day use allowed. Water sports galore and some good trails," notes a camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Photography opportunities: Seasonal photo contests attract visitors to the region's parks. One visitor to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park shares: "I was there for a fall photography contest it was a little too soon and there was very little color... This year 2019 makes the fifth year that I've gone to Pennyroyal for the fall photography contest I've also been there a few springs for the spring photography contest."
Miniature golf: Several campgrounds offer additional recreational activities beyond trails. "The miniature golf course was good but a little expensive," reports a visitor at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, noting the diverse activities available beyond equestrian facilities.
What Campers Like
Secluded lake access: Quieter campgrounds away from main tourist areas provide peaceful water experiences. A camper at Cravens Bay reports: "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."
Group camping areas: Larger gatherings can find dedicated spaces with adequate facilities. "We had this reserved for a large group and it was great! Tons of room to spread out especially with the water as low as it was. Vault toilets on site and a few fire rings. Multiple picnic tables available," mentions a visitor to Colson Hollow Group Camp.
Beach amenities: Many campgrounds feature sandy beaches with additional facilities. A visitor to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park notes: "From the beach area, you can hike the lake trail, but it is moderate. There is a good view of the lake from the trail, and if you walk to the left before crossing the wooden bridge, you can see a very small waterfall."
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have sloping sites requiring additional equipment. A camper at Canal Campground warns: "The dumpster is on your way out of the campground. No other trash receptacles... The lights from the bathroom interior are blinding from this site at night. We hung a bath towel over the tent to help block that when people opened the door."
Utility placement: Water and electric hookups may require extra equipment. "Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," advises a Lake Barkley camper.
Seasonal considerations: Visitor traffic varies significantly by season, affecting reservation needs. "We camped in off-season and the place was quite empty. Camp host told us it was always pretty quiet," reports another Lake Barkley visitor, noting the different experience compared to peak periods.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow creek access provides safer water play for children. A visitor to Montgomery Bell State Park shares: "Montgomery Bell State Park is very clean and quiet. We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, while parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Playground proximity: Consider campsite location relative to play areas. "With a great pavilion, volleyball court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events. If you don't want kiddos walking through your campsite to get to the playground, you may want to choose a higher number," advises a Montgomery Bell visitor.
Alternative accommodation options: Families needing more comfort can find cabin options at several parks. "Great place to visit. Is beautiful with a lot of walking trails and things to do. In summer for swimming and rental boats paddle boats and some battery powered boats...You can camp in tents or campers you can ride horses or enjoy the lake and many miles of walking trails. They also have hotel rooms and cabins," explains a Pennyrile Forest visitor.
Tips from RVers
Equestrian camping sections: Several equestrian campgrounds near Hopkinsville provide more level sites than regular areas. A visitor to Wranglers Campground advises: "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."
Utility extensions: Pack adequate power and water extensions for many regional campgrounds. "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," notes a camper at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for level sites during peak season. "We had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site. Cravens Bay is secluded and about a 2 mile drive off the main road running through LBL," reports a visitor describing navigation challenges with larger rigs.
