Tent camping near Morganfield, Kentucky offers several primitive options within the nearby Shawnee National Forest and wildlife management areas. The region sits at the edge of the western Kentucky coal fields, with campgrounds typically situated between 400-500 feet elevation. Seasonal flooding affects riverside campsites, particularly at Tower Rock from March through April when the Ohio River often rises beyond its banks.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Mauzy East provides direct lake access for anglers. "This is an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views," reports camper Richy R.
Hiking trails: The Camp Cadiz Campground offers access to multiple hiking routes. As camper Chelsea D. notes, "It has easy access to the River to River trail, and I love the CCC stonework."
Boating access: Several campgrounds offer boat launches. One camper at Tower Rock Campground explains, "There is a vault toilet and a simple loop setup to the campground. The road continues past camp to a marina where you can launch your boat into the river."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The primitive campgrounds offer good spacing. "This is a very cool little basic campground with two stone fireplaces and several other sites with shade," writes Shelly S. about Camp Cadiz.
Convenience to supplies: Despite the remote setting, campers can access provisions. "Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies," notes a Lake Mauzy East visitor.
Off-grid experience: Saline County State Conservation Area offers a digital detox with limited connectivity. As Don N. reports, "The only drawback is that we had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)" restores connectivity.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Tower Rock Campground has limited availability from May 1 to December 15, and flooding can further restrict access. Christopher H. notes, "It has been a while now, but I believe there are 4 sites with tables and fire pits. There is a pit toilet, but no water."
Water sources: Many sites require bringing your own water. At Camp Cadiz, one camper explains, "There was potable water from a spigot and lots of kindling around to get fires going."
Vault toilets: Facilities are basic throughout the region. At Tower Rock Campground, JC comments that there are "vault toilets, right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons."
Tips for camping with families
Supply planning: Pack thoroughly for tent camping near Morganfield. "Fill your gas tank up and your food locker or you will be driving back out a ways to refill," advises Shelly S. about the Camp Cadiz area.
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy the natural surroundings. "We stayed here for 1 week in October. There weren't that many sites that were taken so there were a lot of good sites to choose from!" reports a family at Saline County Conservation Area.
Nighttime preparation: The rural setting means minimal light pollution. Christopher H. describes Tower Rock: "Dark and quiet at night unless you have loud fellow campers. No camp host to speak of, just you and the woods and river (and bugs and snakes)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should choose carefully at Camp Cadiz. Art S. suggests, "If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road (it's right next to the small forest road that heads off to the hiking trails). They had shade as well as sun and no dust."
Boondocking options: Lake Mauzy East works well for self-contained camping. Tammy reports, "Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place."
Dump station locations: Some campgrounds offer basic services. At Saline County Conservation Area, M.E. notes, "There is a dump station and potable water at the entrance to the campground. There are also some water spigots sprinkled throughout the campground."
