Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Kentucky features multiple camping options along Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Developed campgrounds like Hillman Ferry and Energy Lake Campground provide amenities for tent and RV campers, while dispersed sites on Forest Service Road 343 offer more primitive experiences. Several campgrounds including Kenlake State Resort Park and Lake Barkley State Resort Park provide cabin accommodations. The recreation area spans portions of western Kentucky and Tennessee, creating a diverse landscape for outdoor recreation between the two major lakes.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some campgrounds accessible via well-maintained paved roads while dispersed sites often require more rugged vehicles. "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," notes one camper about Forest Service Road 343. Dispersed camping requires a permit and costs approximately $10 per night, though America the Beautiful pass holders may qualify for discounts at some self-service campgrounds. The camping season generally runs from March through November, with many campgrounds like Energy Lake operating seasonally from March 1 to November 30. Summer temperatures can be quite warm, making waterfront sites particularly desirable.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Sites directly on Kentucky Lake or Lake Barkley provide swimming and fishing opportunities, with several reviews highlighting these natural features. A visitor to Redd Hollow noted, "Some sites are directly on the water, some are higher up, with great views of the lake." While developed campgrounds offer amenities like electric hookups, showers, and dump stations, the dispersed sites attract those seeking solitude and a more natural experience. Several campgrounds feature picnic tables and fire rings, with varying levels of shade depending on the specific location. Visitors frequently mention the opportunity for wildlife viewing, with the recreation area being home to bison, which can sometimes be spotted while traveling to camping areas.
"Hillman Ferry is the northernmost full service campground in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and is an excellent base camp for exploring the LBL and other recreation opportunities in"
"This campsite is located in beautiful Land Between the Lakes. Many sites are by reservation, but many more are first come first serve. Sites are big and open and some provide views of Kentucky Lake."
"Campsite Review I wound up staying at five different campsites within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, and this was my favorite."
"We have two small kids and were with family (in adjacent D4) so we really hoped for a site with flat space for the kids to play in, but there was absolutely no grassy area."
$38 / night
"First be aware there are several seasonal campers who pretty much feel like they own the place, so their children's running around on golf carts, bicycles and walking through your camp to get to the "trail"
"The sites with the decks have amazing views of Kentucky Lake, and there is a trail just south east of the camping area that leads down to the water for easy access for canoes or kayaks."
$17 - $25 / night
"the staff was helpful and friendly. the park had a great beach area. make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites. i only gave it 4 stars because of"
"Although this is a remote campground, it is situated in a State RESORT park, so it is more like glamping."
$16 - $32 / night
"Hurricane Creek is off of Rt 274 in Kentucky on the east side of Land Between The Lakes."
"**The nearby Land Between the Lakes park is amazing. This is a much more basic park and campground on the shore of the eastern lake."
$10 / night
"There are several sites water level where you can put in to the lake and there are some very picturesque sites that overlook the lake. First come first get."
"All you need to camp here is a camping permit from Land Between the Lakes which is 30 dollars online. If you have a Kentucky resident sportsmans licence this permit is included in that!"
"You can't beat having a lake next to you while you are camping. This is something my family and I always look for when we are camping. Water is always a great place to entertain the kids and family."
"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."
"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."
"Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place. The site is right on the lake an doesn't get any curious cars just driving by."
"There is a porta-john near the lake level sites and a pit toilet near the hill side sites."
"I had a site on the lower side near the lake, I knew there was some rain forecast, but there was a ditch next to my site that I assumed would handle any runoff from the hill above. I was wrong."
$20 - $256 / night
"Canal campground is right on the canal that connects Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake at the north end of Land Between the Lakes."
"Grand Rivers KY Canal Campground at Barkley Lake COE Site 111 This is a great COE campground located between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, with views of the Barkley Dam."
ScoutAwesome campsite rented a cabin we brought are dogs so we had to find a location that excepted pets and they were the ones who were friendly and awsome definitely recommend if u want a place to go this is the place
LegendBefore arrival, we received a helpful confirmation email with clear directions for entering the campground, although the turn was easy with our 40-foot fifth wheel. Check-in was exceptionally friendly—we were even welcomed by a fellow Brinkley owner—and escorted to pull-through Site A6 with full hookups. The utilities were easy to reach, and water pressure was good. We were pleasantly surprised to learn we could park our truck anywhere, even on the grass. Starlink would be questionable because of the mature trees, but the campground's Wi-Fi was better than most we have experienced at around 50 Mbps download and 24 Mbps upload. We had two bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile, while our T-Mobile Home Internet work well. The upper A-loop pull-through sites are fairly level but somewhat close together. The terraced B, C, and D loops could be more challenging for larger rigs to maneuver, level, and exit. The campground also offers a fishing pond, cabins, tent sites, and a fenced dog park. Overall, this is a clean, well-maintained KOA Journey with friendly staff that worked very well for our overnight stay, and we would stay here again.
Scoutthe campground was great, staff was very nice and helpful, great activities for kids and adults, free paddle boats and canoes, cable tv, indoor and outdoor pools, really great place!
TravelerThe campground host are super nice and super responsive anytime something comes up. The pool is always clean and refreshing. Bathhouses are very clean and climate controlled. Nice laundry room onsite that won’t break the bank. Fish cleaning station and a trail to take you to the lake.
LegendWe are on a cross country road trip from Atlanta to Spokane to visit grandkids. Lots of one night stops for easy access and quick getaway in the morning. This place isn’t fancy, it’s a KOA. But it meets out needs. The site is level and shaded. Full hookups . There used to be a pool and playground that we didn’t use. Also a mossy “fishing” pond! And a store.
The bathroom/ showers were reasonably clean The internet is terrible!
It was quiet until three pick up trucks pulled in next to us and proceeded to do auto repairs! Lots of loud banging! Luckily it’s just one night.
ScoutThis place is a hidden gem back in the woods, the owner met us when we arrived and gave us all of the information we needed. This place has a beautiful fishing pond, dog park and a nice walking trail. Perfect for anyone stopping through for the night or wanting to spend the week. Highly recommend!
Traveler** Daniel F did not stay at the same campground his photos are not of the same place and site 907 doesn’t exist** Most of the campground is seasonal. The non seasonal spots are very close. Our awning was inches away from the slide out of the camper next to us. The biggest reason I wouldn’t come back were the 2 dogs in the permit house up front. The people would let them out at 6am (11pm to 7am quiet time) and leave them out to bark non stop for at least an hour. All available spots are in the front of the campground by the barking dogs.
ScoutIt was very nice and comfortable recommend the tree spot
ScoutWe tent camp, but like electricity, however the pads are concrete and can not get stakes in ground. Did not know it was okay to put tent up off pad in grass until we called a park ranger. By this time we was frustrated because we had already put tent up.
Camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.
Camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area?
Land Between the Lakes offers several outstanding campgrounds to suit different preferences. Hillman Ferry Campground is the northernmost full-service option and makes an excellent base camp for exploring the area, offering direct access to Kentucky Lake. Energy Lake Campground stands out for its amenities including showers and canoe/kayak rentals, making it ideal for summer visitors. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Nickell Branch provides backcountry camping on a first-come, first-served basis with a required permit available at visitor centers. Each campground offers unique advantages, from waterfront access to family-friendly amenities, allowing you to choose based on your desired camping experience.
Where can I find a camping map for Land Between the Lakes?
Camping maps for Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area are available at multiple locations. The most reliable source is any of the visitor centers within the recreation area, where you can pick up physical maps and get permits for backcountry camping at locations like Nickell Branch Campground. Individual campgrounds such as Hurricane Creek also provide maps of their specific facilities upon check-in. For online planning, the official Land Between the Lakes website offers downloadable PDF maps showing all campground locations, facilities, and trails. The recreation area's mobile app also includes interactive maps that work even with limited cell service.
What recreational activities are available at Land Between the Lakes besides camping?
Land Between the Lakes offers diverse recreational opportunities beyond camping. Water activities dominate, with excellent fishing, boating, and swimming at numerous access points like Fenton Lake Access, known for clean waters and large fish populations. The recreation area features extensive trail systems for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Wildlife viewing is exceptional at the Elk & Bison Prairie and the Woodlands Nature Station. Educational experiences include the Homeplace 1850s Working Farm and the Golden Pond Planetarium. For boating enthusiasts, Gilbertsville Ramp provides ample parking and ADA-accessible facilities. With over 170,000 acres to explore, visitors can enjoy hunting (in season), photography, picnicking, and stargazing in this outdoor paradise.
Is RV camping available at Land Between the Lakes?
Yes, Land Between the Lakes offers excellent RV camping options. Piney Campground provides beautiful views of Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River and features amenities like bike paths, basketball courts, and playgrounds, making it wildly popular among RV campers. Just outside the recreation area, Eagles Nest RV Park offers a well-maintained facility only 1500 feet from Kentucky Lake and 10 minutes from Land Between the Lakes, with free boat parking and facilities like a picnic pavilion, laundry room, and bath house. Many RV sites throughout the area offer electrical hookups, dump stations, and can accommodate larger rigs. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
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