Best Tent Camping near Hopkinsville, KY
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers several tent camping options within 30 miles of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Tent campers can choose from established campgrounds like Linton and Old Boy Scout Campground, or opt for dispersed camping areas such as Forest Service Road 343 and LBL FS154. These sites provide varying levels of amenities and seclusion, with most requiring a backcountry or dispersed camping permit available at visitor centers.
Most tent sites feature gravel or natural surfaces with minimal development. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, as potable water is scarce at primitive locations. According to one visitor, "There is no drinking water, no toilets, no port-a-john, nothing here but quiet." Basic campgrounds like Cravens Bay and Smith Bay typically provide fire rings and picnic tables, while dispersed areas may have makeshift fire rings from previous campers. Vault toilets are available at some locations but completely absent at others. A 14-day stay limit applies throughout the recreation area, though enforcement varies by location.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking, kayaking, and swimming in Kentucky Lake or Lake Barkley. The shoreline sites offer direct water access, with some featuring pebbly beaches ideal for launching small watercraft. A review mentioned that "Right on the water, no other people for 2 days!" highlighting the seclusion possible at dispersed sites. Summer months bring higher temperatures and increased weekend crowds, particularly at boat ramps and swimming areas. Sites under forest canopy provide welcome shade during hot weather. Fall camping offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Wildlife sightings are common, with coyotes frequently heard at night, especially in the more remote backcountry tent camping areas.
