Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area offers pet friendly camping near New Concord, Kentucky with access to Kentucky Lake's 2,064 miles of shoreline. The area receives approximately 53 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions throughout the 170,000-acre recreation area. Cell service varies significantly between developed campgrounds and primitive camping areas, with most remote locations having minimal to no connectivity.
What to Do
Hiking with pets: The Canal Loop Trail system is accessible directly from Hillman Ferry Campground and connects to the North-South Trail. "A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground!! The Canal Loop Trail and North South Trails are well known and revered by area mountain bikers and hikers," notes Melissa T.
Paddling with dogs: Many campsites at Boswell Landing Campground offer direct water access for kayaking with pets. "This site is amazing! We were able to spread out our tents for a group site and we had the perfect set up! We were 100ft. From the lake," reports Brooklyn L. who adds, "When we ran out of ice, it was a 20 minute trip there and back to get more ice."
Wildlife viewing: The Elk and Bison Prairie near Golden Pond Visitors Center allows pets to remain in vehicles while viewing wildlife. "We visited the Elk and Bison Prairie near Golden Pond Visitors Center. A drive through observation area. The visitor center also offers planetarium shows and nature programs," explains a visitor to Redd Hollow.
What Campers Like
Waterfront access: Many sites at Piney Campground provide direct lake access for pets. "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite," shares Jody A., who notes "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date."
Quiet, secluded options: Pet owners appreciate the privacy at Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area despite the rough access road. "Incredible back country campsite, for use with dispersed camping permit. Right on the water, no other people for 2 days! This is a car camping site however you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get down the steep gravel road," reports Juli G.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain clean restrooms even in primitive settings. "The bathroom was very clean. We will probably go back during a time of year that is not so busy so we can get a site we like better!" writes Kaitlyn C. about her stay at Redd Hollow, while another camper notes "There is a single toilet facility for all of the sites, this toilet was the cleanest public camping toilet I've ever seen."
What You Should Know
Rough access roads: Some primitive areas require 4WD vehicles. "The road you take off The Trace, which runs down the middle of LBL, has several signs and other turn offs. So pay attention to the signs. You will end up on a dirt/gravel road with some interesting ruts and steps hills," warns a visitor about Ginger Bay.
Reserve early for waterfront: During peak season, waterfront sites fill quickly. "If you are coming from the Dover end of LBL. Huge campground, not to full when we were there. Well maintained with staff in evidence who were friendly, professional and informative," shares Shelly S. about her off-season visit to Piney Campground.
Seasonal water levels: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting water access. "The back end of Redd Hollow is shallow. Nice place to wade for kids. However, when they start pulling the lake down what were water access sites become gravel and mud bar access sites," explains Daniel N. about camping with pets at Paris Landing State Park Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring bicycles: Many campgrounds feature kid-friendly biking areas. "There is a very nice boat ramp and several boat parking areas. 'T' area is our favorite with full hookups and beautiful pine trees. A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground!!" recommends Melissa T. about Hillman Ferry Campground.
Consider swimming conditions: Some lakefront areas offer better swimming for families with dogs. "We had fun paddle boarding with the little dog in the inlet right off this campsite. This is a large campground with lots of activities," shares Maggie C. about Hillman Ferry.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playgrounds near pet-friendly sites. "There are 2 playgrounds, multiple bath houses and a cute little store that you can walk/bike to. There is also lake access from multiple sites and a beach area. Bring your bikes or golf cart," advises Meagan L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Check campground maps carefully for access challenges. "Site 64 was a bit difficult to back into but very level once you get in. I think it has some of the best views in the campground," notes Maggie C. about Hillman Ferry, adding "Lots of other campers had their boats moored along the shoreline."
Hookup limitations: Many primitive campgrounds lack services for larger rigs. "There are basic campgrounds and you can backpack in to primitive sites. Redd Hollow has site posts, cement picnic tables fire rings and a pit toilet. There are several sites water level where you can put in to the lake," explains a visitor to Redd Hollow.
Water access considerations: Some sites offer better boat access than others. "We were in a spot pretty far from the road but it was very noticeable. Bathrooms were nice, restaurant was closed for the season," reports Sara C. about Paris Landing State Park, highlighting the need to consider noise levels when selecting pet-friendly sites.
Legend
