Water-based recreation dominates the camping scene near Gilbertsville, Kentucky, with numerous campgrounds situated along Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The region sits within the northern portion of Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, a 170,000-acre peninsula formed when the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers were impounded. The area's moderate climate supports camping from March through November, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-95°F.
What to do
Fishing from shore or pier: Energy Lake Campground offers excellent bank fishing opportunities with a dedicated fishing pier. "There is direct access to one of the many trails in LBL and several within easy biking or driving distance. The staff was very helpful," notes a visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing at Elk and Bison Prairie: Located near several campgrounds, this drive-through wildlife preserve costs $5 per vehicle. "Elk and Bison Prairie is a close by must for only $5 admission card," reports a camper at Energy Lake Campground who appreciated this unique wildlife viewing opportunity.
Non-motorized water sports: Many campgrounds restrict motorized watercraft in certain areas to protect wildlife. "I had a fun time paddle boarding in the little inlet right off this campsite. Lots of other campers had their boats moored along the shoreline," writes a visitor to Hillman Ferry Campground who enjoyed the calm waters.
Drive-in movie experience: For a unique evening activity, check out the drive-in theater near Paducah. "The lady who checked us in gave me a coupon for the drive-in movie theater that was literally down the road... it was awesome!!! The theater accommodated our camper," shares an enthusiastic visitor to Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA.
What campers like
Quiet waterfront settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at select campgrounds. "The setting is quiet and tucked back from everything else. Access to Barkley or Energy Lake. Boat or bank fishing with a fishing pier and parking lots big enough for boat trailers," notes a visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on visitors' priority lists. "The bathrooms and showers were directly across the way and relatively clean... I like that they are set up as individual, lockable shower rooms, rather than one big shower room," reports a camper at Energy Lake Campground.
Convenient store access: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores. "There is camp fire wood, propane and a very small selection of necessities available at the entry gate/check-in. Closest retail store, gas station and alcohol is approximately 10-12 miles from the campground," explains a visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to spot native wildlife. "The only sound is nature and the cracklings from the fire at night," notes a camper from Cypress Lakes RV Park about the peaceful atmosphere.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "You better bring lots of blocks if you expect to get anything close to level," warns a reviewer at Prizer Point Marina & Resort about their premier waterfront sites.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. "No cell service," notes a camper at Hillman Ferry Campground, which is typical for many campgrounds in the more remote areas of Land Between The Lakes.
Noise levels vary by season: During peak periods, particularly hunting and fishing seasons, campgrounds can become quite busy. "By 3 am the place starts hopping. People getting in and out of their cars, doors closing and cars driving off in the gravel," reports a November visitor to Energy Lake Campground.
Utility placement issues: Some campgrounds have awkwardly positioned hookups. "Make sure you have extension cords and hoses as the utilities are positioned in between two sites," advises a Lake Barkley State Resort Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Nice playgrounds," notes a visitor to Hillman Ferry Campground, though facilities vary greatly between locations.
Beach considerations: Not all beach areas are created equal. "The beach was far from impressive with basically gravel as half of the beach. I wasn't expecting Florida beaches in Kentucky, but in Indiana we have nice sandy beaches at lakes so I was disappointed," shares an Energy Lake Campground visitor.
Reserve well ahead: Family-friendly sites with convenient bathroom access book quickly. "We stayed in site 64 which had great views. Pad was level but a little difficult to back into because of one small tree," reports a visitor to Hillman Ferry Campground, highlighting the importance of carefully selecting your site.
Activity access: Consider proximity to amenities when booking. "Did not use the bathrooms as they weren't very close. So I can't comment on that. I had a fun time paddle boarding in the little inlet right off this campsite," notes a camper at Hillman Ferry Campground.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Many sites have electrical hookups positioned far from parking pads. "Electric far from pads - bring extension cord," advises a Lake Barkley State Resort Park visitor who encountered this common issue.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds limit the size of RVs they can accommodate. "Not for the big campers I think 35 is the biggest they allow," notes a visitor to Holiday Hills Resort, information crucial for those with larger rigs.
Site accessibility: Roads within campgrounds can present challenges. "The roads are a bit steep and narrow but we were able to get a 30' travel trailer in there without trouble," shares a visitor to Energy Lake Campground who successfully navigated the terrain.
Water source planning: Not all sites offer direct water hookups. "Electricity is on almost every site. Each area has 'city' water available at hose bibs located in central locations in each area," explains an Energy Lake Campground visitor, reminding RVers to fill tanks before setting up.
