S
Samuel B.
Scout
ScoutTwin Lakes Campground
Excellent primitive sites with fire ring and picnic table right on the water.
Camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY
138 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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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.
Best Campgrounds near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (138)
1. Hillman Ferry Campground
"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."
2. Energy Lake Campground
"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."
3. Kenlake State Resort Park
"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."
from $38 / night
Check Availability4. Redd Hollow
"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!"
from $10 / night
Check Availability5. Hurricane Creek
"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."
from $16 - $32 / night
Check Availability6. Lake Barkley State Resort Park
"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."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability7. KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
"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."
8. Forest Service Rd 343
"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."
9. Sugar Bay Campground
"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."
10. Canal Campground- Lake Barkley COE
"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."
from $20 - $256 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 46 min from Paducah, KY
- 58 min from Clarksville, TN
- 1 hr 26 min from Nashville, TN
- 1 hr 55 min from Jackson, TN
Recent Camping Photos near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
135 Photos of 138 Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
680 Reviews of 138 Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area Campgrounds
Denny K.
GuideHurricane Creek
Campground hosts were fabulous, but the core part of it. The people at the core were very belligerent didn't want to help out. The roads were really narrow. Big ditches couldn't get into the sights that they said you could the real some of the sites are deep, but the roads are so narrow, you can't cut your vehicle into it. A lot of problems with that out here at this place
- MMark V.
TravelerFern Lake Campground
I’m not sure where the good reviews come from. Ive tried to find another Fern Lake to make sure I was at the correct one. Bath facilities have half doors so you are shitting in public. Your kids get the nice look over by any of the weird full timers living junk squaller. The power poles are only standing by the shear strength of all the cobbled together wires and electric tape. It’s not safe. It’s fucking dangerous. Most the fire “pits” are shitty rings from 60 years ago at least. There is zero maintenance here. It’s very loud next to the freeway. Sites are small and on top of each other. Lots are small. Not level. And little gravel. The cinder blocks keep you from backing in too far. Most of the water posts are “shared” because others don’t work. Picnic tables are a fucking joke. Rotten. Lead paint and worthless. The water retaining POND has a grass path around it so you can admire what recycled concrete can create where there was once no POND. One star is extremely generous. Just like the generous $10 a bundle for wood. Keep on trucking. It’s not far to go to find something worthwhile. This is a 100% pass. Before you think I’m some kind of pre Madonna, I will say we are a minimalist family that camps in unimproved spots and boondocks all the time. This place is gross. And disturbing that anyone reviews it for more than a 1 star. Most of the reviews are flat out lies. One talks about the clean bathrooms, hot showers, and one mentions a fucking pool! Wtf? Shitting in your own fire ring is more private. Pictures sooooo under tell the story of what a shot hole this place is. It’s off the freeway very close. And there is a Mexican restaurant across the street and a Casey’s essentially attached. If that’s what you like. Have fun. But any great reviews are from either someone who came and went in the dark. Or are from the owners.
- DDebra S.Traveler
Redd Hollow
Will come again
Started at Gatlin Point. Moved because wanted something closer to the water.
Spacious spots give plenty of privacy. Was very quiet (12th). Facilities clean.
T-Mobile sometimes spotty but had coverage most of the time.
RJ B.TravelerPisgah Point - DFWR
Pretty, but Surprisingly Busy
We chose this spot to camp because it seemed out of the way and was hopefully quiet. We're not sure whether it was the beauty of the spot or the time of the year (Thursday before Columbus Day/fall break), but this spot was so busy!! We arrived early afternoon and there was someone driving in (most left again) every 10 minutes for the entire day!! Not the peaceful spot we were hoping for. We intended to stay a second night, but it was just too busy for us. Not a repeat site for us unfortunately.
We set up camp on the east side near the woods. It was a little challenging to find a flat area. The vault toilet was central to the area. We saw several large birds catching fish in the lake, so there must be decent fishing. There was a picnic table or two on the west side of the area and several fire pits (only one on the east side where we were). The 2 mile gravel road leading to Pisgah Point was pretty rough and washed out at points.
slater B.Scoutland between the lakes
Secluded but rough to get to
To the other guy who reviewed who got here on the Harley you sir have some big balls because my Kia Niro handled it but the road was pretty rough for low clearance and definitely don't bring a camper here IMO. Stayed in September right after a massive heat wave and enjoyed some of the first great fall weather in this cozy spot. Got here pretty late had to ditch my other spot because of gnats but this one was relatively bug free but also right on the water. Also very secluded by trees was very nice
SkywaystoHighways.com Y.
LegendLand Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Hillman Ferry Campground
Massive Park with Lake Views
Do yourself a favor and pay for the golf cart! This campground is huuuge! We stayed here for an event and were amazed at how many sites there were. We had a nice campsite on the lake side, however the lake was pretty dry. Facilities were clean and we had a nice level site. All in all a fun time was had by all.
Nicole D.ScoutRJourney Clarksville RV Resort
Passing Through
Needed a place right off the interstate. Very nice, clean and family friend. Will keep this place in mind when traveling again!
- JJay M.Guide
Canal Campground- Lake Barkley COE
Nice CG!
This is the third time we’ve stayed here just using it as an overnight on the way to and from home on our way out west. Great campground with full hook up service in some sites and a view of the lake.
Guide to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
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.
What to do:
- Hiking and Nature Walks: The area is filled with trails for all skill levels. Campers have enjoyed the “nice hiking trails” at Hillman Ferry Campground, making it a great spot for families.
- Water Activities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular here. One visitor at Energy Lake Campground mentioned, “The lake itself is man-made, and motorized watercraft are not permitted, making it great for swimming and kayaking.”
- Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes, perfect for fishing. A reviewer at Hurricane Creek noted, “Nice campground right on the lake,” highlighting the fishing opportunities.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One family at Piney Campground said, “The bathrooms were clean and everyone was so nice!”
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Hillman Ferry Campground shared, “The site was spacious and clean. Plenty of room for our 30' travel trailer.”
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A reviewer at Energy Lake Campground said, “The staff at this campground is AMAZING, and very knowledgeable about LBL.”
What you should know:
- Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for little to no cell phone service in some areas. A family at Hillman Ferry Campground warned, “Please be aware there is very little cell phone service.”
- Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Hurricane Creek is open from April 25 to October 20.
- Crowded During Peak Times: Popular campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Barkley State Resort Park mentioned, “Sites are close together, most with a pitch.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds or open spaces. A reviewer at Piney Campground noted, “There was even a rope swing at the creek that we spent a TON of time playing at.”
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or outdoor games. One family at Energy Lake Campground enjoyed biking around, saying, “We rode our bikes all over the place.”
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A camper at Hurricane Creek mentioned, “The campground is very clean. Easy hookup for electric and water.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Levels: Some sites can be uneven. A reviewer at Lake Barkley State Resort Park pointed out, “Pads are not level. Saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground.”
- Bring Leveling Blocks: If your site is sloped, having leveling blocks can help. A visitor at Piney Campground noted, “We needed leveling blocks but it had an awesome tent pad in the woods.”
- Plan for Dump Station Access: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Canal - Lake Barkley mentioned, “There was a dump station, trash and recycling near the campground entrance.”
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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