Best Campgrounds 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, Kentucky (138)

    1. Hillman Ferry Campground

    36 Reviews
    97 Photos
    155 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    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

    2. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    53 Reviews
    228 Photos
    505 Saves
    Karbers Ridge, Illinois

    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

    3. Canal - Lake Barkley

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    64 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    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
    • RVs

    $20 - $256 / night

    4. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    142 Photos
    307 Saves
    Eddyville, Illinois

    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

    5. Eureka

    16 Reviews
    48 Photos
    94 Saves
    Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    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

    $20 - $35 / night

    6. Shawnee Forest Campground

    33 Reviews
    69 Photos
    195 Saves
    Vienna, Illinois

    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

    7. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

    15 Reviews
    37 Photos
    65 Saves
    Paducah, Kentucky

    We are a Good Sam Park and a family-owned campground that was established by Fern and Sam in 1977. Our beloved, Sam, passed away December 20, 2018. Greg and Deanna Bazzell are the second generation campground hosts who live on the property. Whether you want to spend the night or stay longer to visit or work in the area, we can accommodate you. From tents to the largest campers and motor homes we have a convenient site for you. Our entire team is committed to meeting your needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers.

    We would welcome the opportunity to accommodate your stay and deliver you the best service in the industry. ~ Greg and Deanna Bazzell

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

    $10 - $48 / night

    8. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

    12 Reviews
    28 Photos
    31 Saves
    Gilbertsville, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    9. Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    24 Saves
    Calvert City, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    10. Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    110 Saves
    Grantsburg, Illinois

    If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side of the forest or any place in-between. Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, fishing and bicycling. The accessible picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $10 - $20 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 138 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Smithland, KY

807 Reviews of 138 Smithland Campgrounds



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 138 campgrounds and RV parks near Smithland, KY and 12 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 12 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.