Best Campgrounds near Smithland, KY
The Smithland, Kentucky area accommodates a range of camping experiences along the Ohio River and nearby lake systems. Birdsville Riverside RV Park, located directly in Smithland, provides waterfront RV camping with full hookup options along the Ohio River. Additional options extend to nearby communities like Calvert City and Grand Rivers where campgrounds such as Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA and Cypress Lakes RV Park offer tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Most developed campgrounds in this region are positioned to take advantage of the area's abundant water features, including Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and the Ohio River.
Reservations are highly recommended for most campgrounds, particularly during peak summer months and holiday weekends. Many facilities operate seasonally, with several campgrounds closing between late October and March. "We were fortunate to get a short notice reservation for an overnight at this KOA," noted one visitor, highlighting the popularity of the area's campgrounds. Road access throughout the region is generally good with paved roads leading to most established campgrounds, though some sites may have gravel or uneven surfaces that require attention when leveling RVs. Summer temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low 90s°F, while winters can dip below freezing, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons for many visitors.
Waterfront camping receives consistently strong reviews across multiple campgrounds in the area. Sites directly on the Ohio River at Birdsville Riverside RV Park allow campers to watch barges and boats pass by. A camper described it as "a jewel of an RV park on the Ohio River" where they "enjoyed a quiet and relaxing stay." While many campgrounds cater primarily to RV travelers with full hookups, tent campers can find accommodations at several parks including Hillman Ferry Campground and Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park. Family-friendly amenities vary by location, with some parks offering fishing lakes, playgrounds, and organized activities during summer months. Most campgrounds provide standard facilities such as restrooms and showers, though the quality and availability of these amenities differs between properties.
