Tent camping near Hopkinsville, Kentucky centers around Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which encompasses 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 350 to 570 feet and average summer temperatures of 85-90°F. Most dispersed camping sites require permits available at visitor centers for $7 per night, with a 14-day maximum stay.
What to do
Kayaking the shorelines: At Old Boy Scout Campground, campers have direct access to the water. "I discovered this little gem of a campground in college. This is a primitive site, and is considered back country camping, meaning you will have to obtain a back country pass from the Golden Pond Visitor Center," notes Brad H.
Fishing from your campsite: Many campsites at Cravens Bay provide access to prime fishing spots. "Craven's Bay campground is remote back country camping, right on the lake, but far away from any visitor attraction in Land Between the Lakes," explains Staci R. Fish species include bass, crappie, and catfish.
Exploring forest trails: Land Between the Lakes offers over 200 miles of undeveloped shoreline and numerous hiking trails. "We spent hours in the evening around the campfire enjoying each other and making lots of s'mores. During the morning and day we ventured outside of the campground and did some hiking. There are some awesome hikes that have the best views!" shares Evelyn R. about her experience at Linton.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Forest Service Rd 343 offers secluded tent camping spots. "This is one of the best spots I've found on this app. I had one other person show up to cook, but they left shortly after. Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!" reports Andrew C.
Waterfront views: Campsites at LBL FS154 provide excellent lake views. "This site is quite remote feeling, but for a dispersed site, it is absolutely the BEST, which is why it is sometimes difficult to secure it, being it is first come first served," notes Staci R. The site sits on a small peninsula just big enough for a large tent and vehicle.
Wildlife encounters: Many Hopkinsville area camping locations offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Defiantly for the nature lovers out there, nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning," shares a camper about their experience at Cravens Bay.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Backcountry and dispersed camping requires permits. "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers," advises a camper about LBL FS154.
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require driving on rough roads. "The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections," warns Tobias R. about Forest Service Rd 343.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic facilities. "There is no drinking water, no toilets, no port-a-john, nothing here but quiet," explains a reviewer about Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area. Campers need to bring all supplies including drinking water.
Site availability: First-come, first-served rules apply at most sites. "All sites are first come- first served, so you will want to come early," notes Staci R. about Redd Hollow Campground. Weekends from May through September typically see higher usage.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with safer water access: Certain areas offer more family-friendly water entry points. "Great place for backcountry though you can drive right to the spot. The site is right on the water with a gravel opening beside it. We were able to setup 4 tents with lots of room to spare. We fished, we hiked, we kayaked!!" shares Brittni F. about Ginger Bay.
Look for playgrounds: Some recreation areas include play facilities. "A beach, a boat ramp, a playground and pavilion," notes Shelly S. about Linton Recreation Area, making it suitable for families with young children.
Pack extra water: With limited potable water sources, families need to bring adequate supplies. "Also there was no water available in the campground so definitely bring your own!" warns Evelyn R. about her camping experience near Hopkinsville.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: RV campers should verify site sizes before arrival. "We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site," shares a camper about Redd Hollow Campground.
Prepare for dry camping: Most sites lack hookups. "If you don't mind not having any hook ups and dry/boon docking with your camper Cravens Bay has a lot to offer in terms of privacy, peace, boating, fishing, and swimming," explains an RVer.
Consider seasonal campers: Some areas have long-term visitors. "You have to deal with a lot of fishermen and seasonal campers. There is enough room to spread out from other campers," notes Wesley B. about camping at Cravens Bay.
