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Best Dispersed Camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

15 Reviews

Dispersed camping throughout Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area comes with a focus on basic, self-sufficient setups. You'll need to get a backcountry permit from any visitor center before heading out to find your spot. The dirt roads leading to many dispersed sites can be rough after rain, with some areas requiring higher clearance vehicles to access. Rangers enforce the rule that all camping must happen at least 100 feet from any water or roadway. Most campers bring in all their water since the nearest reliable sources are back at the developed campgrounds, about 5-10 miles from popular dispersed areas. Fire bans frequently take effect during summer and fall months, so a camp stove is essential. The 14-day stay limit gives you plenty of time to enjoy the quiet, but you'll be completely responsible for packing out everything you bring in. The closest supplies are in Dover or Grand Rivers, both about 20-30 minutes from the recreation area boundaries. Wildlife encounters with deer and turkey are common, so secure food items at night. Cell service ranges from spotty to non-existent in most of the backcountry areas.

Map showing campgrounds near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KentuckyExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (7)

    1. Forest Service Rd 343

    8 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    1 mile

    "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."

    2. LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
    8 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. Neville Bay

    5 Reviews
    Bumpus Mills, TN
    13 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."

    4. LBL FS-326

    1 Review
    Cadiz, KY
    9 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."

    5. Demumber's Bay

    5 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    16 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."

    6. Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road

    1 Review
    Bumpus Mills, TN
    16 miles
    Website

    7. Barge Island Public Use Area at Birmingham Point

    1 Review
    Grand Rivers, KY
    13 miles
    Website
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

20 Photos of 7 Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

15 Reviews of 7 Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area Campgrounds

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2024

    LBL FS-326

    Lovely, quiet spot!

    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. Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes. Otherwise, I felt safe and had a great time here!! The ground was flat and there was a lot of room. We were just passing through and needed somewhere quiet to sleep after two days of driving. There is a lot to do in this area! I hope I got the location right… it wouldn’t let me add the exact coordinates I saved when I was there.

  • Staci R.
    Sep. 19, 2022

    LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    5 Star Dispersed? Planning ahead will make the difference

    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. Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers. The roads coming out to this site are graded graveled roads, and do not require 4WD, however some of the roads are still blocked by trees felled (probably during December 2021 tornados), so you won't want to be dragging a trailer behind you when you turn a curve to see a fallen oak.  I traveled in on FS-154 and turned left onto the road that runs next to the site. When leaving, I attempted to continue traveling down the unnumbered road toward FS-134, but both directions in the fork were blocked by trees. This campsite is very popular, even though there are ZERO AMENITIES, which means 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. 

    The campsite itself is on a small peninsula, just big enough for a large two room tent, a makeshift fire ring, and a vehicle. I was there during the lake's winter pool, so the water was very low, leaving a lot of easy walkable entry areas into the bay or inlet area.  Forrest service checks in with dispersed campers often, so staying longer than the time allowed is usually not an option, but there are also other really nice dispersed areas near by to move to,

  • Ai-Ai T.
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Demumber's Bay

    Extreme bug activity - late August

    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. Other than that, good stop for dispersed campers. Bathrooms were vault.

  • M
    Jan. 11, 2021

    Neville Bay

    Great little camp ground

    Nice little are 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

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2017

    Barge Island Public Use Area at Birmingham Point

    Functionality

    Barge Island 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.

    The sign on the way in has a tent camping symbol but I saw no evidence that anyone has ever camped in the thin strip of grass on each side of the road. It is feasible that you could though.

    If you continue straight on Barge Island Rd it turns to gravel and you end up on a small gravel beach area, good for fishing.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 28, 2024

    LBL FS154 - Dispersed

    Several Nice Spots

    I stayed at two difderent spots in March 2024. 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. Both spots had fire pits

  • Staci R.
    Sep. 2, 2022

    Demumber's Bay

    Basic Campground - Pack in all you need (except toilet!)

    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. This is a well maintained campground whose only amenity is a vault toilet, and trash dumpster. The views of the lake are amazing, and this is a quiet area that allows for easy kayaking or other small water craft. There is a boat ramp, and zero entry areas into the water for launching. 

    A Dispersed Camping (Basic Camping) permit is required to camp here and you must purchase these at any of the three Visitor's Centers PRIOR to coming out! I've been told (by LBL LEO) that if you arrive after the centers are closed, but go get the permit first thing in the morning when they open, you will be good...

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2021

    Neville Bay

    Nice quite primitive camping

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

  • Kari M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Demumber's Bay

    Multiple Great Spots!

    This road is a paved Forest road that leads to a boat ramp. 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. They have fire rings made by stones from previous campers. Just make sure you get a permit for the few that have the requirement. They have a sign once you get to that area by the boat ramp.

Guide to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Dispersed camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Kentucky offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some insights to enhance your experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like LBL FS154 - Dispersed, require a permit, so be sure to secure one before heading out to avoid any issues.
  • Expect minimal amenities; for instance, Forest Service Rd 343 has no drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly by bringing all necessary supplies.
  • The roads leading to these areas can be rough; a vehicle with good clearance is recommended, especially for places like LBL FS-326, which may require a bit of off-road capability.

Dispersed campers should check out Neville Bay

  • This spot is known for its beautiful views and well-maintained facilities, including vault toilets, making it a convenient choice for those looking for a balance of nature and comfort at Neville Bay.
  • The area is popular for its flat terrain near the water, ideal for setting up tents and enjoying a peaceful night under the stars.
  • With multiple camping sites available, you can find a secluded spot to unwind while still being close to the lake for activities like kayaking or fishing.

Scenic spots for dispersed camping enthusiasts

  • Demumber's Bay offers a picturesque setting with several dispersed camping spots along a paved road, making it accessible for various vehicles.
  • The area features fire rings made from stones, allowing for cozy campfires while you enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Be prepared for some bugs during warmer months, but the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between dispersed and primitive camping at Land Between the Lakes?

At Land Between the Lakes, dispersed camping allows you to camp in undeveloped areas with minimal to no facilities. Demumber's Bay is considered a backcountry campground with only vault toilets and trash dumpsters, accessible via paved and compacted gravel roads. Neville Bay offers similar dispersed camping with no hookups but allows generator use until 11pm. Primitive camping, in contrast, typically refers to designated primitive campgrounds that may have basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and trash collection, but no electrical hookups or shower facilities. Dispersed sites are often more remote and require self-sufficiency, while primitive sites might have a campground layout with designated spots and a fee station.

Do I need a permit for backcountry camping in Land Between the Lakes?

Yes, you need a permit for backcountry camping in Land Between the Lakes. LBL FS154 - Dispersed requires a dispersed camping permit before arrival, which is essential for camping legally in the area. Barge Island Public Use Area, while primarily a boat ramp, is part of the LBL system where permits are required for any overnight stays. Permits are available online through the Land Between the Lakes website or at any of the Visitor Centers throughout the recreation area. The permit system helps manage usage and protect resources. Be prepared to display your permit at your campsite, as rangers may check for compliance during their patrols.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Land Between the Lakes?

Land Between the Lakes offers several dispersed camping areas along forest service roads. Forest Service Rd 343 provides secluded lakeside spots with fire pits, though the access road can be washed out and steep in sections (4WD/AWD recommended with 8+ inches of clearance). LBL FS-326 is another excellent option that dead-ends at Energy Lake, offering quiet camping with minimal traffic. Other dispersed camping locations include FS154, Demumber's Bay, Neville Bay, and various spots along forest roads throughout the recreation area. Most sites are first-come, first-served and require a dispersed camping permit. Look for established fire rings which often indicate suitable camping spots.

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