Tent campsites near New Concord, Kentucky are situated within the 170,000-acre Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which spans a peninsula between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The region features rolling hills with elevation changes of 100-300 feet and a humid subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F. Winter camping is available year-round with temperatures typically ranging from 30-50°F from December through February.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Several camping areas offer direct lake access. At Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area, "We watched turtles, popping their head up in the lake and really enjoyed ourselves," notes Michelle T. The campground provides good fishing and swimming opportunities.
Paddling: Kayaking is popular from lakeside tent sites. At Forest Service Rd 343, a camper reported "Beautiful spot with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!" Water access makes this an excellent launch point for paddlers.
Wildlife viewing: The recreation area houses diverse wildlife. When visiting Old Boy Scout Campground, campers can find "persimmon trees loaded with fruit, if you'd like to make jam," according to Staci R. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded locations: Many tent campers value the privacy. At Ginger Bay, "This is an excellent campground to get away at. I didn't spend much time in the actual camping area but off in the woods a little ways," writes Tim D. The remote setting attracts those seeking solitude.
Swimming access: Direct lake entry from campsites ranks high with visitors. One camper at Forest Service Rd 343 stated, "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!"
Natural camping surfaces: The primitive sites feature minimal development. At Sugar Bay Campground, "Spots are in the grass and nothing fancy but perfect for us that love to Tent camp and enjoy natural comforts over amenities," says Brittni F. This creates an authentic outdoor experience.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access roads to several tent camping areas have challenging conditions. A review for Ginger Bay states, "You will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get down the steep gravel road to the dispersed camping area." Plan transportation accordingly.
Permits: For most primitive camping near New Concord, permits are required. According to a Forest Service Rd 343 review, "Dispersed camping is a $10 fee. If you have the National Park pass you can go to a self check in campground for $5."
Water supply: Potable water is scarce at primitive sites. At Redd Hollow Campground, a camper advises, "I didn't pay attention to whether there was potable water, (I haul mine in) but the Dump Station just south of Golden Pond Visitor Center has potable water." Bring sufficient water or filtration equipment.
Seasonal considerations: Fall offers milder conditions. At Sugar Bay, a reviewer noted, "We stayed here November 2023, site 9 up on the hill. Nice and quiet, beautiful stars at night and good cell service if you needed it."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Several sites have child-friendly water access. At Sugar Bay Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Swimming allowed in Sugar Bay (no lifeguard) and in late September the water was warm." The shallow entry points work well for families.
Space considerations: Look for sites with room for multiple tents. A camper at Ginger Bay noted, "The site is right on the water with a gravel opening beside it. We were able to setup 4 tents with lots of room to spare." This accommodates larger family groups.
Wildlife education: The area offers learning opportunities. When camping at Gatlin Point Self-Service Campground, families can expect a "Beautiful, right by a little lake, super quiet and clean" setting according to Marcella, making it ideal for nature observation with children.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive camping areas near New Concord accommodate small RVs only. At Redd Hollow Campground, a reviewer observed, "The campsites are pea gravel based, and while some are smaller and closer together (ideal for tents or car camping) there are a few that are large enough for dry docking a small RV."
Access challenges: Rough roads restrict RV access to many tent camping locations. One Ginger Bay review cautions, "I don't recommend a pull behind trailer as the road is so rough you wont get a camper up it. The sites are just a clearing in the trees so there is no place to park a rig."
Winter camping: Off-season tent camping remains viable with proper equipment. RVs may have better insulation for colder months, but tent campers should bring appropriate cold-weather gear.
