Campgrounds near Buchanan, Tennessee offer varied settings for overnight stays along Kentucky Lake's 2,064 miles of shoreline. With summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F, sites often provide shade from the native hardwood forests. Most dispersed camping areas require visitors to purchase a Land Between The Lakes backcountry camping permit, which costs $30 annually or is discounted for seniors with a lifetime pass.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Piney Campground, visitors can explore trails through wooded areas. "Great easy drive from middle Tennessee with tons of great amenities and staff," notes David V. The North/South trail runs the length of Land Between The Lakes with multiple access points for section hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Schedule time to observe native species at Land Between The Lakes. "Saw a lot of wildlife for such a big campground with lots of people traffic," shares Shy-Anne W. about her experience at Piney Campground. The Elk and Bison Prairie near Golden Pond Visitors Center offers a drive-through observation area approximately 15 miles from many camping locations.
Historical exploration: Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield in Dover, which is "a day use park with beautiful views," according to Debbie G. The area contains Civil War sites including Buchanan Cemetery, which is within walking distance of Boswell Landing Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Boswell Landing Campground provides direct water access. "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," reports Brooklyn L. Most sites include concrete picnic tables and fire rings.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the maintenance of bathhouses and common areas. "Bath house was cleaned every day," notes Barbara H. about her stay at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground. "The bathroom was very clean," adds Kaitlyn C. regarding her experience at Redd Hollow.
Peaceful environment: Redd Hollow offers a quieter alternative to larger campgrounds. "We chose the first site in the woods as you enter the campground. Couldn't see much of the lake from the site but we loved being tucked in the woods. The only noise we heard from other people was when people drove past hauling boats," shares Kaitlyn C.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At many campgrounds, particularly Paris Landing State Park Campground, site layout can be challenging. "The campground layout is odd. Some sites are pointed the wrong direction on a one way road, so you just have to drive it backwards. Most sites are small, but there are a few longer ones," advises Shana D.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate throughout the year, affecting shoreline access. "When they start pulling the lake down what were water access sites become gravel and mud bar access sites," explains Daniel N. about Redd Hollow. Peak usage occurs between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Road conditions: Some glamping close to Buchanan, Tennessee requires navigating unpaved roads. "The drive in is pretty rough even with us being in a jeep though," warns Jessica M. about accessing Ginger Bay. Several reviewers recommend scouting routes before attempting them with large vehicles or trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA offers activities specifically designed for children. "They have a very nice pool and pool area... a fun gemmine for the kiddos!" mentions Tanya A. The camp store stocks both necessities and entertainment items.
Shallow water areas: For families with young children, certain coves provide safer swimming conditions. "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," explains Chris R. about his experience at Piney Campground.
Recreational options: Multiple playgrounds exist throughout larger campgrounds. "There is a pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout," notes Shelly S. about Piney Campground, while another visitor mentions volleyball courts and boat rentals available at many locations.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "Seems like many are unlevel. Our picnic table was at a very noticeable slant," reports Shana D. about Paris Landing State Park. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most locations.
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds and even within sites. "Easy access from Dover TN off Hwy 79. Really nice spots have both non-electric and electric. With America Beautiful Pass only 8 dollars a night non," notes Michael W. about Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground.
Site spacing: RV sites at most locations provide adequate room for standard setups. "Big spaces - My family and I love when the campsite spaces are big enough for 2 tents, the table, fire ring and car," shares Isabella H. about her Piney Campground experience, though site dimensions vary considerably between locations offering glamping near Buchanan, Tennessee.
