Primitive camping near New Concord, Kentucky centers around Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. These sites sit on peninsulas and shorelines at elevations between 350-500 feet, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F. Winter camping remains popular when temperatures drop to 30-45°F and water levels recede, exposing additional shoreline camping options.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Demumber's Bay, the paved access road leads to multiple spots with easy water entry. "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," notes a camper.
Winter camping: The peninsula site at LBL FS154 - Dispersed offers unique winter opportunities. One visitor explains, "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."
Wildlife observation: While exploring the roads around these sites, watch for the bison herd. "Would recommend swimming in the water nearby and would recommend seeing the buffalo on the way in or out," suggests one camper who visited Forest Service Road 343.
What campers like
Peace and isolation: Neville Bay provides separation from more developed areas. A camper describes it as "Secluded but still accessible. Four stars, for what it is. If there was electric and water it would be a solid 5."
Multiple site options: Primitive camping at LBL FS-326 gives visitors choices. "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," reports one visitor.
Water access: The small peninsulas create ideal swimming and kayaking spots. "I had one other person show up to cook, but they left shortly after. Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!" reports an enthusiastic camper about their Forest Service Road 343 experience.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most dispersed sites require permits purchased in advance. "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers," advises a camper at FS154.
Road conditions: The quality of access roads varies significantly by location and recent weather. A visitor to Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road notes, "Not free, but worthwhile for a small fee. My family and I loved spending time at this spot!"
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings increased insect activity. "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," warns a late August camper at Demumber's Bay.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with toilet access when camping with children. Neville Bay offers basic facilities as one camper notes, "Beautiful view. Vault toilet. Well kept."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. "Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes," reports a camper at LBL FS-326.
Multiple camping options: For families who prefer slightly more amenities, consider Demumber's Bay. "This is a well maintained campground whose only amenity is a vault toilet, and trash dumpster," explains a visitor, noting it requires less packing of sanitation supplies.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Neville Bay, one RVer advises, "Nice little area 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 are no hook ups. Can run generator until 11pm."
Road clearance: Many access roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. "I stayed at two different 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," notes a camper at LBL FS154.
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks as most primitive sites aren't graded. "The first day I was visited by an older man on a dirt bike who was just out riding. The site is right on the lake and doesn't get any curious cars just driving by. The road in is rough, but a 2wd truck could make it in dry weather," shares a Forest Service Road 343 visitor.
