Best Tent Camping near New Concord, KY
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers several tent camping options near New Concord, Kentucky, with sites ranging from primitive to established. Forest Service Road 343 provides dispersed tent camping with lakeside access, while Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area offers secluded tent sites on Kentucky Lake. Both areas require backcountry camping permits, which can be purchased at visitor centers or self-service stations.
Most primitive tent sites have minimal amenities, with campers needing to pack in essentials. A camper noted, "The road to Forest Service Road 343 is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections." Tent pads are typically unimproved, consisting of gravel, dirt, or natural forest floor. Fire rings are available at most locations, but campers should check current fire restrictions. Potable water is not available at dispersed sites, requiring visitors to either filter water from Kentucky Lake or bring their own supply. Vault toilets are present at some established campgrounds but absent at primitive locations.
Tent camping areas near Kentucky Lake provide direct water access, with several sites positioned along the shoreline. Sites at Ginger Bay offer isolation from crowds, though the rough access road limits visitors. A recent review noted, "Great place for backcountry though you can drive right to the spot. We fished, we hiked, we kayaked! We all enjoyed the peaceful exclusivity this site offers." Walk-in tent locations provide greater privacy than drive-up sites. During summer months, lakeside tent camping allows for swimming and fishing directly from camp. Fall and spring typically offer milder temperatures and fewer visitors at these primitive tent camping areas. Campers should secure food properly as wildlife including coyotes are present throughout the recreation area.