Equestrian camping near Smithland, Kentucky offers a mix of shaded woodland and lakeside sites throughout the Land Between the Lakes region. Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall, though seasonal availability varies widely by facility. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, with winter lows in the 20-30°F range, influencing water accessibility and trail conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Canal Campground on Lake Barkley provides multiple spots for anglers. "The campground was clean. The bath house was clean, as well. There were a lot of golf carts making the loop for some reason. Maybe 10/hour until about 8 pm," notes Cherri H. about Canal Campground- Lake Barkley COE.
Hiking trail connections: Ferne Clyffe State Park offers direct trail access from campsites. "Great covered spots, trails to and from the campground all across the park, great personnel, accessibility throughout the park, scenic locations within a mile walk from the campground (Ferne Clyffe Waterfall)," according to Hannah S. at Deer Ridge Campground.
Lakefront recreation: Prizer Point KOA provides boat rentals and water activities. "Most sites have great views of Lake Barkley! Large camp store with a restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza, beer and sodas... Golf cart rentals and the marina has boat rentals," reports Brad S. at Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point KOA.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront options: Cravens Bay campground provides direct water access. "Great spot for kayaking and tent camping. We were the only ones there so it was perfect! Highly recommend for tent camping," shares Benjamin C. about Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access.
Proximity to trails: Camp Cadiz connects directly to the River to River Trail. "This camp ground is only about 10 min from Garden Of The Gods. It's down a gravel road a bit but nothing too hard to find. The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents," notes Ryan P. from Camp Cadiz Campground.
Convenient lake views: Many campsites feature direct water views. "Some sites have gorgeous views of Lake Barkley. Immaculate and well maintained. Close to Grand Rivers and the famous Patti's Porch Restaurant, currently being rebuilt after a disastrous fire," mentions Cheryl K. at Canal Campground.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have sloped sites requiring preparation. "Sites are very sloped. Worst I've ever seen. Major drawback to this campground," warns John R. about Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Limited hookup locations: Electric and water hookups are often placed inconsistently. "Electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises Holly S. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Seasonal closures: Most facilities close late October through March. "Open 3/13/2020 - 11/9/2020," notes the operating season at Prizer Point KOA, requiring advance planning for off-season trips.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: Arrive early for swimming areas with limited capacity. "The beach is free to public so very crowded and some elements are not family friendly," cautions John R. at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "Camping, cabins, hiking, horseback, swimming, and even mini golf. There are numerous trails, and a plethora of wildlife," shares Nicole P. about Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Playground locations: Canal Campground offers play areas near campsites. "They have a small playground, beach, several bath houses, a group camping 'pad', boat ramp, boat dock and easy roads for cycling," reports Rachel T.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords required: Bring extra-length power cables for many sites. "We had to buy longer extension cables and a longer water hose, sites are very close together," warns Erin R. about Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
Pull-through availability: Shawnee Forest Campground offers easier access sites. "The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice," reports MickandKarla W. at Shawnee Forest Campground.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer single dump stations with potential wait times. "Even the dump is on an incline," notes Lynn A. about Lake Barkley State Resort Park, highlighting the terrain challenges throughout the area.
Traveler
