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Best Dispersed Camping near Kuttawa, KY

51 Reviews

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area dominates the camping landscape around Kuttawa, Kentucky, offering primarily dispersed camping options with varying levels of amenities. Demumber's Bay, located directly in Kuttawa, provides basic facilities including vault toilets and trash disposal while maintaining a primitive camping experience. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access several Forest Service roads with dispersed sites, including LBL FS154 and FS-326, which receive consistently high ratings from visitors seeking solitude. These areas feature established fire rings but minimal infrastructure, appealing to self-sufficient campers who appreciate lakeside locations. The region sits between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, creating numerous waterfront camping opportunities with boat access.

Road conditions throughout the area vary significantly with weather, particularly at Forest Service sites. As one camper noted about Forest Service Rd 343, "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." Most dispersed sites in the Land Between the Lakes require permits, available at visitor centers before arrival. Summer brings intense insect activity, particularly at dusk, with one visitor to Demumber's Bay reporting "extreme bug activity" in August. Winter camping remains possible but with reduced services and potentially challenging road conditions after rain or snow. Cell service is limited throughout the region, particularly at more remote sites.

Lakefront access represents the primary draw for most campers in the area. A visitor to LBL FS-326 described it as "a fantastic dispersed camping spot" with "flat ground and a lot of room," noting they "felt safe and had a great time." Sites at Demumber's Bay offer views described as "amazing" with "quiet areas that allow for easy kayaking." Wildlife sightings, including coyotes, are commonly reported. Campers consistently mention the solitude and quiet atmosphere as highlights, though holiday weekends can bring crowds to the more accessible areas. Navigation challenges are frequently mentioned in reviews, with several campers noting difficulty finding specific sites or encountering unexpected road conditions, suggesting detailed maps or GPS coordinates are valuable for first-time visitors.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Kuttawa, Kentucky (10)

    1. Demumber's Bay

    5 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    5 miles

    "Denumbers is considered a back country campground in Land Between the Lakes. The road going back into the campground is paved, and the roads in the campground are compacted gravel."

    "There are multiple dispersed camping spots available along the way (closer to the bay mostly). There are a couple on the water and some in the woods close by."

    2. LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 525-7077

    "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."

    "You might need 4wd; it had rained all day before I got here and there were some rough/sloppy patches in the road. The pit toilt at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away."

    3. LBL FS-326

    1 Review
    Cadiz, KY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 525-7077

    "This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake. It was quiet most of the time."

    4. Forest Service Rd 343

    8 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    21 miles

    "A secluded lakeside spot with a fire pit. We saw three other spots on the way in which looked nice as well. The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted."

    "There is dispersed and standard. The standard has a fee but the dispersed is free"

    5. Barge Island Public Use Area at Birmingham Point

    1 Review
    Grand Rivers, KY
    11 miles
    Website

    6. Jackson Falls

    22 Reviews
    Shawnee National Forest, IL
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    "We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

    We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."

    "There are primative campsites on both sides of Glen Street Falls Road near the trailhead. You can drive right up and park next to your campsite."

    7. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Grantsburg, IL
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 949-3807

    $12 - $44 / night

    "This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many"

    "There is a longer wine trail further west in Shawnee National Forest.

    When I entered Lake Glendale, Cardinal Bay boat launch was the first area I visited."

    8. Neville Bay

    5 Reviews
    Bumpus Mills, TN
    32 miles
    Website

    "There is no hook ups . Can run generator until 11pm"

    "Mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend."

    9. Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road

    1 Review
    Bumpus Mills, TN
    35 miles
    Website

    10. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest

    1 Review
    Grantsburg, IL
    39 miles

    "It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kuttawa, KY

29 Photos of 10 Kuttawa Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kuttawa, KY

51 Reviews of 10 Kuttawa Campgrounds

  • Stacia R.
    Apr. 27, 2019

    Jackson Falls

    Popular dispersed camping area

    This is dispersed camping within the Shawnee National Forest. The area can be tricky to find if you are unfamiliar with the area. It can also get very crowded on nice days due to its proximity to the college campus. It is also very popular with rock climbers and people on horseback. I found the trails to be somewhat confusing and not well marked. I was here Easter weekend and the weather was great, so there were a lot of tents set up right near the parking area. If you don’t mind hiking in a bit, peace and quiet can be found.

  • tom L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2025

    Jackson Falls

    Jackson Falls Dispersed

    We run a 28ft RV and we’re able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

    We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs. The terrain is hard rock and any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight’s. .

  • J K.
    Sep. 3, 2019

    Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    Our IL #1

    This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale. The sites are mostly private and have water hookups as well as electric. A nearby beach is available to enjoy during the summer as well as hiking trails. While this campground is certainly off the beaten path it is perfect for those that want to get away and enjoy some quiet time. No reservations though so you’ll want to get there ahead of time to ensure yourself a spot If you enjoy a very

  • Marta S.
    Jun. 13, 2021

    Jackson Falls

    Unimpressive and crowded

    The campsite is considered to be primitive, which is fine, but it is right along the trail without any cover. All the campsites are one on top of the other without any cover in between or from the trail. They were all taken and incredibly packed during the Memorial Day weekend and honestly seemed very messy and unpleasant. I would not feel comfortable leaving my equipment and gear here unattended at all. I'm not sure if it's any better the further along the trail you go, but the areas we hiked it didn't appear there were additional primitive/dispersed camping spots available other than the ones near the trail head. Also, important to note that there are lots of ticks and poison ivy everywhere.

    I have camped in backcountry locations and have done dispersed/primitive camping and enjoy it quite a bit, but I would have been miserable at this location.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2020

    Jackson Falls

    Waterfalls, hiking, climbing, and FREE camping

    Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes. Most of the routes here are sport routes, though there are a number of trad routes.

    There are primative campsites on both sides of Glen Street Falls Road near the trailhead. You can drive right up and park next to your campsite. If those campsites are full, there are additional campsites further down the road.

    Most campsites have fire rings. There are no picnic tables or campfire grills there. There are also no garbage cans. You must pack out all of your garbage. You also need to bring your own drinking water as there is no fresh water there.

    There's a single outhouse at the trailhead that is well maintained and pretty clean.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • R
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Jackson Falls

    Great campground

    Off the beaten path and wasn’t sure what to expect but once there it was nice…just a parking lot with a vault lock toilet and a few campsites you see right away… also a few down the path if you want a little remote. The bathroom was stocked with tp but you will want to bring hand sanatizer or water. None available there. Cool views of the Bluffs 1/4 mile down the path and a bridge that would go over a waterfall if it wasn’t so dried up…would probably real pretty to see in the spring. Drove my Hyundai Elantra thru just fine, but it is a rough road and your car will get dirty.

  • Shawn M.
    Sep. 21, 2018

    Jackson Falls

    Gorgeous Winter hiking

    Jackson Falls is popular with climbers and has many marked routes. You are able to camp right along the water near the parking pull out and if you don't mind hikers passing by, it is a beautiful location. We were out in spring after a mid-march snow fall and melt which meant good water. I would love to come back in warmer weather to get wet. I would imagine warmer weather brings crowds.

  • Jacob T.
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Jackson Falls

    4x4 and tents only

    We were hoping to stay there but upon arrival realized that was not to be. The east side of the road is where the camping sites would be but the road was completely washed out. It would be challenging for a jeep to make it back to some of those sites.

    On top of that the river feeding Jackson Falls was all but dried up this time of year. Nothing but a trickle going down the cliff.

    We headed to Glendale Lake nearby and had much better luck at Oak Point.

Guide to Kuttawa

Dispersed camping near Kuttawa, Kentucky centers around the Shawnee National Forest and Land Between the Lakes areas, with elevations ranging from 350-400 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F during day and 65-75°F at night, while winter camping can see temperatures drop below freezing. Primitive sites throughout the region typically require campers to pack in essentials and pack out waste.

What to do

Kayaking on Kentucky Lake: Launch from Demumber's Bay where there are "zero entry areas into the water for launching" according to one camper. The bay provides "quiet areas that allow for easy kayaking or other small water craft."

Wildlife watching: Morning and evening hours offer the best opportunities to spot local wildlife. One visitor to Forest Service Rd 343 reported: "The next morning an older man on a horse stopped to talk and a couple in a Cherokee stopped to chat. Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place."

Trail hiking: Several interconnected trails surround most camping areas. A visitor to Lake Glendale Recreation Area mentioned "an easy 3 mile hike around the lake" and noted that "there are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods, and segments of the Trail of Tears."

What campers like

Waterside locations: Many sites offer direct water access for swimming and fishing. At LBL FS-326, a visitor described it as "a lovely, quiet spot" where "the road dead ends at Energy Lake." They added they "heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes."

Privacy between sites: Several camping areas offer good separation between campsites. At LBL FS154 - Dispersed, a camper noted that "the campsite itself is on a small peninsula, just big enough for a large two room tent, a makeshift fire ring, and a vehicle."

Natural features: The region's rolling hills and lake views create scenic camping environments. A visitor to Jackson Falls shared that "the place is beautiful; forests and great big, moss covered boulders. It was fun climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids."

What you should know

Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging, especially during wet weather. A camper at Forest Service Rd 343 advised: "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."

Permit requirements: Most dispersed camping sites require permits purchased in advance. A visitor to LBL FS154 emphasized: "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers."

Limited facilities: Most sites offer minimal or no amenities. A camper at LBL FS154 explained that "you need to know and understand sanitation ('cat holes') as there are no port-a-johns or vault toilets, there is also NO POTABLE water, so you either pack it in or bring your filter and drink lake water."

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites with space for play: Some dispersed sites offer more room than others. A visitor to Neville Bay reported it was "mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend."

Plan for water activities: Swimming and wading opportunities can entertain children. At Jackson Falls, a camper mentioned: "We went during a dry spell and there was no running water at the falls! Still had a blast there though!"

Be prepared for insects: Bug activity varies by season and can be intense in summer months. A recent visitor to Demumber's Bay wrote: "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."

Tips from RVers

Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all dispersed sites accommodate RVs. At Neville Bay, a camper advised: "Nice little area to camp at. Well suited for tents. Most of the area isn't very level. The road going back there is gravel. We went with our 30 ft travel trailer. There is no hook ups. Can run generator until 11pm."

Resource management: With no hookups available, conservation is essential. A visitor to Lake Glendale Recreation Area noted: "Electric and non electric sites with plenty of room for the bigger rigs. If you pick a water side site it is a short walk to the lake trail and I saw several personal watercraft sitting on the shore for use."

Road navigation: Some access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. A camper visiting Barge Island Public Use Area shared that it "is boat-ramp and that is all. At the end of Barge Island Rd, to the left, next to Birmingham Point Campground (privately owned) it is functional, has a porta pot, parking and a small dock."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kuttawa, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kuttawa, KY is Demumber's Bay with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kuttawa, KY?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Kuttawa, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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