Best Campgrounds near Paducah, KY

Paducah, Kentucky camping includes several good options within driving distance. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park sits just off exit 3 on I-24, giving easy access for folks passing through. The campground has full hookups for RVs and stays pretty quiet most nights. Hillman Ferry Campground on Kentucky Lake puts you right on the water and has its own boat ramp if you're bringing watercraft. Shawnee Forest Campground is a bit farther but worth the drive for its hiking trails and nice views of the surrounding landscape. You'll want to make reservations ahead of time since these places can get full, especially during summer and holidays. Book early to get the spot you want instead of settling for what's left. Watch for any fire bans during dry periods and check how long you're allowed to stay at each place. Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes are close by, making Paducah a good base camp for fishing, boating and hiking trips. Before heading out, double-check if you need any special permits for activities in the area. Planning ahead will help your camping trip go smoothly from start to finish.

Best Camping Sites Near Paducah, Kentucky (142)

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Recent Reviews near Paducah, KY

802 Reviews of 142 Paducah Campgrounds



Guide to Paducah

Camping near Paducah, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: The area is surrounded by stunning parks and lakes. You can hike, fish, or just enjoy the views.
  • Visit Local Attractions: Check out the National Quilting Museum or take a short drive to the Land Between the Lakes for more outdoor fun.
  • Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Canal - Lake Barkley, offer access to the lake for boating and fishing. One camper mentioned, “The peninsula offers many sites with water views and access.”

What campers like

  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One review noted, “The staff was friendly and walked us to our site and showed us the hookups” at Fern Lake Campground and RV Park.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Oak Point - Lake Glendale said, “The bathrooms are clean and well-stocked.”
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park mentioned, “Campground is beautiful with lots of room in between sites.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. For example, a camper at Dixon Springs State Park pointed out, “Pit toilets with no hand washing station or showers.”
  • Seasonal Crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area noted, “During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A visitor at Canal - Lake Barkley mentioned, “Tons of deer, and skunks, but they don’t bother you.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One family enjoyed the beach and playground at Fern Lake Campground and RV Park, saying, “The beach and the playground were nice for the kids.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check for nearby restaurants. A camper at Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA mentioned, “Quick food options just down the road.”
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water and wildlife. One camper advised, “Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks” when visiting Oak Point - Lake Glendale.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park mentioned, “The sites are very small but spread out.”
  • Leveling Your RV: Some sites can be hilly or uneven. A camper at Cypress Lakes RV Park noted, “Our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake.”
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. A visitor at Oak Point Campground said, “Very difficult to get an electric site in the summer, especially on weekends.”

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Paducah, KY!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Paducah, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 campgrounds and RV parks near Paducah, KY and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paducah, KY is Hillman Ferry Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Paducah, KY.

  • What parks are near Paducah, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Paducah, KY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.