Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area provides a range of equestrian camping options near New Concord, Kentucky. The area spans 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley with over 200 miles of trails. Campgrounds for horse enthusiasts maintain both primitive sites and full-hookup options with most open from March through October when temperatures typically range from 70-90°F.
What to do
Trail riding and hiking: Colson Hollow Group Camp connects to multiple trail systems. "We had this reserved for a large group and it was great! Tons of room to spread out especially with the water as low as it was. Vault toilets on site and a few fire rings. Multiple picnic tables available," notes Matt S.
Water activities: Lake Barkley State Resort Park offers boat rentals, fishing, and swimming. The park has "a great beach area" according to Ann D., who adds that "the staff was helpful and friendly." Boaters can access both Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley through the canal system.
Tour historic sites: While camping at Loretta Lynn's Ranch, visitors can tour the country music legend's property. "The best part of our stay was the tour of the plantation and Loretta Lynn's Museum," writes Debra F., highlighting the educational component beyond horse camping.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers appreciate direct water access at Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access. Benjamin C. reports, "Great spot for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect! Highly recommend for tent camping." Sites along the shoreline provide waterfront views.
Privacy options: Canal Campground offers various site locations from waterfront to wooded. "The campground is in the shape of a peninsula so there are many campsites with water views and access. The bathrooms and showers are very clean and the road in is very nice," notes Chris O.
Scenic views: Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park features wooded sites with lake views. John R. describes it as a "beautiful area! Really nice swimming beach, hiking trails, and campground. Paved sites, most with plenty of shade." The terrain offers varied elevations for different camping experiences.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate between March and October. "We camped in off-season and the place was quite empty. Camp host told us it was always pretty quiet," reports Lynn A. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Lake Barkley, Cheyanne S. advises, "Bring quite a bit of leveling materials as the sites are very unlevel." Similarly, John R. notes about Pennyrile Forest, "Sites are very sloped. Worst I've ever seen."
Remote locations: Some campgrounds are far from services. Staci R. describes Cravens Bay as "remote back country camping, right on the lake, but far away from any visitor attraction in Land Between the Lakes. It is a drive to get anywhere, so bring everything you need."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas. At Pennyrile Forest State Park, Myron C. notes there is "a large sandy beach and a place to rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. Also at the beach are picnic tables, grills, a playground, and concessions."
Educational opportunities: The Art Farm Women's Retreat offers unique activities beyond traditional camping. Laura P. mentions they have "lots of choice camping spots! Serene and private. Beautiful rolling farmland, just minutes from town. They also offer tiny home rentals, yurt-style glamping tents."
Structured activities: Some parks offer organized recreation. John R. notes that Pennyrile Forest has "swimming beach very nice, quiet campground, clean facilities, nice size lake with canoe, paddle board rentals, great kid environment."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: At Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Holly S. warns that "electric [is] far from pads - bring extension cord." This is a common issue at several area campgrounds, so pack extra-long utility connections.
Site selection: For equestrian camping with RVs near New Concord, Tessa C. notes about KOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point: "Spots are pretty close together but fine for big rigs. Drawbacks: Sites 49-51 are mislabeled online. Booked a pullthru spot on 49 but it wasn't."
Amenities: Full-hookup options are available at several campgrounds. Molly W. mentions about Wranglers Campground: "This is one of 5 organized campgrounds with full hookups that accept reservations. There are many other smaller campgrounds with toilets and the entire recreational area allows dispersed camping with a permit."
