Best Camping near Smithland, KY

Join the fun near Smithland. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Smithland is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Smithland, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Smithland, KY (139)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillman Ferry Campground

    1. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    148 Saves

    Hillman Ferry Campground offers 374 well-defined lake front and wooded sites capable of handling a variety of camping units from tents to large motor homes. Basic, electric, water, and sewer sites are available. Campers have access to modern facilities, including a large swimming area, archery range, ball field, bike trails, campfire amphitheater, hiking trails, two boat ramps, fishing dock, picnic tables, and fire rings. During the summer season we offer recreation programs for all ages.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    2. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    52 Reviews
    208 Photos
    496 Saves

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley
    Camper-submitted photo from Canal - Lake Barkley

    3. Canal - Lake Barkley

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    62 Saves

    Overview

    Situated along a peninsula between the lush shorelines of Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, Canal Campground offers modern camping and provides the ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Barkley Dam and boats traveling through the canal from the comfort of their campsite. The campground faces Barkley Lake, and the shore of Kentucky Lake is a brisk one-mile walk across the canal.

    Recreation

    From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Canal Campground is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Eagle nests can be spotted throughout the grounds, and its not unlikely for visitors to encounter deer and other wildlife. A short hiking trail allows campers to enjoy the outdoor scenery at their leisure. Fishing is also a popular pastime, and during warm months bass and catfish are plentiful in both lakes.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, as part of a dam project at the Cumberland River, spans 134 miles along the Kentucky landscape, offering countless recreational activities to visitors. The canal connects Lake Barley with Kentucky Lake, forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country.

    Nearby Attractions

    Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    4. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    142 Photos
    305 Saves

    Bell Smith Springs is one of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. It contains a series of clear, rocky streams and scenic canyons bordered by high sandstone cliffs and an abundance of vegetation unique to Illinois. The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka
    Camper-submitted photo from Eureka

    5. Eureka

    16 Reviews
    48 Photos
    92 Saves

    Overview

    Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.

    Recreation

    Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.

    Natural Features

    Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground

    6. Shawnee Forest Campground

    32 Reviews
    55 Photos
    191 Saves

    Located in the Middle of Southern Illinois just Off I-24 it is a great place to stay while you explore all the the Shawnee Forest. From Giant City to Garden of the Gods. The Tunnel Hill bike trail is a half mile away and Cache River is just down the road. We have 60 Full Hook up sites. Large pull through sites up to 120 feet long. We have Shower Houses and Laundry Facilities. Our Campground is Open Year Round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    7. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    14 Reviews
    33 Photos
    64 Saves

    Primarily RV and campers. Limited tent sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Park

    8. Kentucky Dam Village State Park

    12 Reviews
    28 Photos
    31 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    9. Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    10. Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    107 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $44 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 139 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Smithland

Recent Reviews In Smithland

788 Reviews of 139 Smithland Campgrounds


  • Ai-Ai T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Demumber's Bay
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Demumber's Bay

    Extreme bug activity - late August

    Pulled in around dusk and there was a deserted camper there, about 4 pull in sites for rooftop campers. The bugs were insane and 40 must’ve flown into my car when i opened the door for a split second. Other than that, good stop for dispersed campers. Bathrooms were vault.

  • Abraham
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginger Bay
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Ginger Bay

    Nice spot on the water

    A few sites at a boat launch area.

    One large site before the main turnaround point and a couple by the water.

    Not a ton of space.

    4x4 or awd may come in handy leaving the sites (going back up the gravel hill)

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Bay Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sugar Bay Campground

    Swimming in the lake and eat lunch on the campsite

    Only stay for several hours,haven't spent the night yet,that will be planned next

  • Wanda E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outback RV Resort
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Outback RV Resort

    Great stay

    This park was very quiet, easy to access and owners were very friendly. The grounds we very well kept. Showers and bathrooms immaculate. We will definitely stop again in the future.

  • Twan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Bay Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Taylor Bay Campground

    Beautiful LBL site

    This is lakefront with a vault toilet and no running water. On a Wednesday night everything was quiet and peaceful. It is a self serve campground.

  • Melissa C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground

    Beautiful Modern Campground with lots of activities

    Piney Campground is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is wildly popular among locals and travelers alike. Lots to do for kids - bike paths, basketball court, multiple playgrounds, etc. Beautiful views of Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River, nice campground store.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aurora Oaks Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Aurora Oaks Campground

    Nice, quiet and clean

    We stayed here in our tent. The lady who checked us in was exceptionally nice and the campsites were clean quiet and shady. The restrooms were spick and span. We would certainly stay here again.

  • Beth LeVar L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bumpus Mills
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Bumpus Mills

    An Okay Campground

    If you want a small affordable campground this is your place. The shower house could use for some regular cleaning. I’m not sure it was cleaned at all the time we were there. Not much to do in the area but fish unless you really want to explore outside of the campground.

    I learned after our time there our site is the worst with bugs. I thought the bugs were just extra because it had rained a lot but a friend told me to never book that site bc the bugs are always backs there. Our site also gets all the rain drained from the upper site. When we checked in the host did prepare us our site would flood for a few areas since rain was expected.

    The sunsets were fabulous!

  • Denton T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May. 22, 2024

    Union County Fair

    Kentucky Bike Ralley

    I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place

  • Dante V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May. 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Redd Hollow
    May. 7, 2024

    Redd Hollow

    Clean, quiet, beautiful

    Stayed 2 nights. Nearly empty, but we’ll kept camp. Best sunsets!!! Lake is beautiful. Many many lakeside spots. Lots of room.

  • Jon H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point Campground
    May. 6, 2024

    Oak Point Campground

    Nice national park campground

    Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything.
    There are primitive and electric (with water) sites. There are no sites with sewer hookup. There is a dump station at the entrance.

    Sites are generally level and well kept. Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front. There are some lake front spots that can be had. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.

    Large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles.

    Shower houses are kept clean, but as of this posting, they need some maintenance work.

    All in all, this is a must stop if you want to enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • steven B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground
    Apr. 27, 2024

    Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground

    No frills campground

    This is a no frills campground just off of I-69/I-24. Check in was completed online and our site was marked with our name. All sites are full hook up with concrete pads. The county has a trail system that begin just a few hundred feet down the road that is a nice stretch of the legs. The skeleton on the motorcycle welcoming you was interesting, maybe we were really early or really late for Halloween. The campground is in need of some TLC of the grounds. There also seems to be a lot of long term residents.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground
    Apr. 24, 2024

    COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground

    Nice campground, disgusting bathroom.

    Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.



Guide to Smithland

Camping near Smithland, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. For example, at Giant City State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter." This makes it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts year-round.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers. Campers at Hurricane Creek enjoy the lake access, with one saying, "Nice campground right on the lake."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The calm waters around Energy Lake Campground are perfect for paddling. A visitor noted, "The lake itself is man-made, and motorized watercraft are not permitted, making it great for swimming and kayaking."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One guest at Hillman Ferry Campground said, "The bathrooms were very clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots for tents and RVs. A family at Piney Campground mentioned, "The site was spacious and clean," making it comfortable for larger groups.
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views. At Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, one reviewer said, "The views are stunning," highlighting the area's natural charm.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor noted, "There is no potable water on site," so plan accordingly.
  • Busy Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A camper at Hillman Ferry Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday," to avoid the crowds.
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. One camper at Jackson Falls mentioned, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and just a little bumpy," so be prepared for that.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. At Energy Lake Campground, one family said, "Family friendly, lots of children on their scooters," making it a lively spot for kids.
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A camper at Hurricane Creek noted, "Many campers had boats for lake recreation," which can keep the family entertained.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. One reviewer at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park mentioned, "The beach and boat access are gated until 10am," which is good to know for safety.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Shawnee Forest Campground said, "Big sites for our 40ft fifth wheel," which is helpful for larger RVs.
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups. Campers at Hillman Ferry Campground appreciated the "easy hookup for electric and water."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Turns: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A camper at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park warned, "Tight 90 degree turns... make this place horrible for anything but a pop up."

Camping near Smithland, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Smithland, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Smithland, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Smithland, KY and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

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

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

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Smithland, KY.

  • What parks are near Smithland, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Smithland, KY that allow camping, notably Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and Shawnee National Forest.