Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers specialized equestrian camping with level pull-through sites that provide electric, water, and sewer hookups. These sites accommodate various camping styles from tent camping to RVs. Located within the 15,000-acre Pennyrile State Forest, the park features extensive trail networks for horseback riding through hardwood forests and around Pennyrile Lake. The wrangler campground is considered better maintained than standard camping areas and operates seasonally from April to October.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: The beach area at Lake Barkley State Resort Park provides a refreshing option after trail riding. "The park had a great beach area," notes Ann D., adding practical details about the campground's utilities: "make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites."
Hiking on interconnected trails: Explore the 13.5-mile Pennyrile Nature Trail that connects Dawson Springs to the park. According to Shelly S., the park is "multi-leveled with the views and some cool rock formations," and offers varied terrain for different skill levels.
Fishing opportunities: Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access provides excellent lake access for anglers. One visitor noted the peaceful environment, stating, "Nothing like seeing a Bald Eagle hunting fish while drinking coffee first thing in the morning." The campground attracts many dedicated fishermen according to reviews.
Photography outings: The park hosts seasonal photography contests. JK mentions, "This year 2019 makes the fifth year that I've gone to Pennyroyal for the fall photography contest. I've also been there a few springs for the spring photography contest."
What campers like
Equestrian site advantages: The wrangler sites at Pennyrile Forest are significantly more accessible and level than standard sites. One camper advised, "When you reserve your site make sure you ask about the specific site's terrain. Site 48, where I was, was sloped with no grass and had just been repaired."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Nicole P. from Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park mentions, "There are numerous trails, and a plethora of wildlife. We even saw a bald eagle within 15 minutes drive from the park."
Golf cart accessibility: At Canal Campground- Lake Barkley COE, many campers appreciate the golf cart-friendly environment. Chris O. notes, "The campground is big enough for golf carts and small enough to walk to the beach from any side."
Peaceful environment: Several campgrounds in the region offer quiet settings away from crowds. At Lake Mauzy East, one camper described it as "very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place." Another visitor called it "absolutely beautiful" with "super quiet" surroundings.
What you should know
Uneven terrain challenges: Many sites throughout the region have significant leveling issues. At Lake Barkley State Resort Park, one camper reported, "We saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground and a TT with the hitch on the ground. Many sites had drop offs on the door side of the pad."
Seasonal operating dates: Most equestrian facilities in the area operate from April through October. Plan accordingly as off-season visits may find facilities closed or limited services available.
Horse facilities availability: According to campers, you don't need to have horses to use the equestrian sites. One visitor at High Knob Campgrounds noted it "definitely caters to equestrians," with "nice and safe" stalls, though some trails "need marked a bit better."
Utility placement: At several campgrounds, hookups are positioned between sites, requiring longer hoses and extension cords. One camper at Lake Barkley mentioned, "electric far from pads - bring extension cord."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: While the beach areas are popular for families, they can get crowded. At KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point, one visitor noted, "We loved our visit to this KOA! Waterpark in the summer, boating activities, lake front sites. Countless activities for the kids and the pools are nice too!"
Multiple recreation options: Look for campgrounds with diverse activities to keep children engaged. Nicole P. mentions Pennyrile offers "Camping, cabins, hiking, horseback, swimming, and even mini golf."
Site selection for comfort: Choose sites away from main roads to reduce dust and noise. At Camp Cadiz, a camper advised, "If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road. They had shade as well as sun and no dust."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping is available at select locations. A visitor to Lake Mauzy East enthused, "This is an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets."
Tips from RVers
Consider equestrian sites: The horse camping areas at Pennyrile Forest often provide more level sites than standard RV camping areas. Myron C. notes, "When I talked to the campground host, he was very pleasant and explained that you do not have to have a horse to camp in the equestrian sites. Those sites are level pull-through sites."
Hookup extensions: Multiple campgrounds in the region have utilities positioned inconveniently. One RVer noted, "We had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together."
Navigating narrow roads: Several campgrounds feature tight access roads. One RVer at Cravens Bay mentioned, "We stayed at site 20 with a 36' travel trailer we had to actually drive all the way to the end of the campground to turn around so we could back into the site. The road leading into the campsite is paved but narrow."
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities in the region operate with limited seasons. A camper at Pennyrile mentioned, "I stayed here on a whim on my way to a funeral. I just needed a place to rest for the night. This was a peaceful place and clean. Just needs to be updated."
