Camping near Buchanan, Tennessee centers around Kentucky Lake with over 2,300 miles of shoreline and depths reaching 70 feet in the main channel. The area receives approximately 53 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings for campers throughout the spring and summer months. Winter camping offers fewer crowds but temperatures can drop below freezing between December and February.
What to do
Boating and fishing access: At Boswell Landing Campground, visitors can launch directly from the campground. "This site is amazing! We were able to spread out our tents for a group site and we had the perfect set up! We were 100ft. From the lake and had so many trees to use for our hammocks," notes Brooklyn L.
Historical sites exploration: Fort Donelson National Historic Site sits 15 miles from Buchanan camping areas. "Boswell Landing is a quiet spot of the park with gorgeous views of Kentucky Lake where you can pull up a chair (or tent!) and relax... within walking distance of the campground, down the paved road are a few notable things: Buchanan Cemetery, which is a civil war cemetery, and the site of Fort Henry," explains Jessica L.
Basketball and recreation: Piney Campground offers multiple sport facilities. "A pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout. Well maintained, friendly staff," says Shelly S. The campground provides organized activities during peak season weekends.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area offers primitive camping directly on the water. "Incredible back country campsite, for use with dispersed camping permit. Right on the water, no other people for 2 days!" reports Juli G. The area requires a dispersed camping permit available at LBL offices.
Shaded campsites: Mature hardwoods provide coverage at most established campgrounds. "All spots have lots of shade which is always a plus for summer camping! They have a very nice pool and pool area, huge laundromat, a fun gemmine for the kiddos!" writes Tanya A. about Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA.
Wildlife viewing: Despite developed areas, wildlife remains abundant. "Nice campground. Clean, pet friendly. A lot of sites! Access to lakes. Saw a lot of wildlife for such a big campground with lots of people traffic," notes Shy-Anne W. about her stay at Piney Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some primitive areas have challenging access. "You will end up on a dirt/gravel road with some interesting ruts and steps hills. Once you make it to the Ginger Bay area there are several side 'roads' that lead to camping spots," warns Shelly S.
Site reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly, especially during summer. "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date," advises Jody A.
Campsite leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for some areas. "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to fine a level site," notes Joel R. about Paris Landing State Park Campground.
Varying water levels: Kentucky Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally affecting shoreline access. "Piney cove is pretty shallow and we could walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep. Bottom is soft mud," describes Chris R.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Family-focused campgrounds offer play structures. "Big campground, with nice bathhouses, and boat ramp. Sites are a little close together but nice. A pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout," shares Shelly S.
Swimming areas: Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground provides designated swimming zones. "Nice outpost store with most of the essentials including propane and firewood," adds Rob T. The swimming areas feature gradual entry points suitable for children.
Kid-friendly hiking: Short trails suitable for young hikers exist throughout the area. "Hikes nearby- this is something we always look forward to doing when we camp. We do our research ahead of time to find the best hikes for us. The hikes were great, and so much greenery and flowers!" Isabella H. reports.
Road safety awareness: "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite. There are a LOT of kids around riding bikes (so be careful driving)," warns Jody A.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "Our back in site was to the left on a one way road that I had to turn around and go opposite way so we could get in," explains Todd M. about Paris Landing State Park.
Concrete pads advantage: Eagles Nest RV Park offers solid parking surfaces. "Eagle's Nest RV Park is a hidden gem right next to Kentucky Lake and Paris Landing. It has all concrete pads with full service utility kiosks. Each campsite has plenty of room and comes with its own patio and cable TV connection," describes Andy S.
Road noise considerations: Some sites experience traffic sounds. "The spot was nice, the park was lovely, but the road noise was bothersome. We were in a spot pretty far from the road but it was very noticeable," shares Sara C.
Power management: Check electrical connections before settling in. "Had water and electrical hook up but the 30 amp was fried. Luckily it also had 20 amp so power management was key," advises Todd M.
