The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area spans 170,000 acres between Kentucky and Tennessee, creating numerous waterfront tent campsites near Bumpus Mills, Tennessee. The region sits at elevations between 360 and 480 feet above sea level, with summer high temperatures typically reaching the mid-90s. Campsites range from designated sites with minimal amenities to fully primitive areas requiring backpacking permits for overnight stays.
What to do
Kayaking near camp: Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area offers direct water access perfect for paddlers. "We fished, we hiked, we kayaked!! We all enjoyed the peaceful exclusivity this site offers and we plan to return soon!!" writes Brittni F. The boat ramp access makes it easy to launch from your campsite.
Wildlife viewing: The Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Redd Hollow Campground has trails where you can spot local wildlife. Chris O. notes, "Bring your atv, dirt bike or sidexside and cruise the trails right along Lake Barkley. They have over 100 miles of trails." The area allows fishing year-round and swimming during summer months.
Trail hiking: Stewart State Forest offers marked hiking trails throughout the property. "There are marked trails throughout the area," shares Douglas K. Remember that hunting is permitted here, so wearing orange during hunting seasons is recommended for safety.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent campers near Bumpus Mills value the remote settings. At Old Boy Scout Campground, "There is space for several tents and you could find spots for hammocks in the nearby tree line," notes Brad H. The primitive nature of this site appeals to those seeking quiet.
Waterfront sites: The shoreline camping opportunities are highly rated. According to Juli G. at Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area, "Incredible back country campsite, for use with dispersed camping permit. Right on the water, no other people for 2 days!" Most waterfront sites require a dispersed camping permit.
Stone fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with established fire rings. At Jones Creek, Steve M. notes, "Clean camping area with a fire pit. The lake is beautiful, clean, and very fish friendly." However, he recommends bringing wood as "everything there seemed permanently damp."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads are rough gravel with challenging conditions. "The road is gravel and bumpy so you might not want to take a smaller car on it but just fine for any awd, truck, van, etc.," katie writes about Forest Service Rd 343. Some sites require higher clearance vehicles.
Permit system: A backcountry permit is needed for most dispersed camping. "This is on the TN end of Land between the lakes so check in at one of the welcome stations to get a backwoods camping pass," advises Tim D. about Ginger Bay. Permits can be purchased at visitor centers.
Limited facilities: Most tent campsites near Bumpus Mills have no amenities. Staci R. emphasizes about Old Boy Scout Campground: "There are NO AMENITIES at this collection of dispersed camp sites... There is no drinking water, no toilets, no port-a-john, nothing here but quiet." Prepare accordingly with all necessary supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Consider established sites: Gatlin Point Self-Service Campground provides more structure for families with basic amenities. Marcella notes it has "bathroom, fire pit, picnic table" and describes it as "Beautiful, right by a little lake, super quiet and clean."
Scout playgrounds: Linton recreation area includes family-friendly features. "A beach, a boat ramp, a playground and pavilion," according to Shelly S., making it suitable for children though facilities may be basic.
Plan for water activities: Swimming opportunities keep children entertained. "We spent hours in the evening around the campfire enjoying each other and making lots of s'mores. During the morning and day we ventured outside of the campground and did some hiking," shares Evelyn R. about her family's experience at Linton.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Few tent campgrounds near Bumpus Mills accommodate larger vehicles. Michelle T. from Ginger Bay advises, "You will need a four-wheel drive to traverse the actual campground point," noting they used a van to camp successfully.
Site selection considerations: At Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Redd Hollow Campground, Randy S. reports: "Sites are gravel and pretty level. At least half of the sites have a view of the lake. All sites have fire rings and picnic tables... Were there with a 26 foot towable." Select carefully based on vehicle size.
Self-sufficiency required: RV campers must be prepared for minimal hookups. "Redd Hollow is a Self-service campground in Land Between the Lakes (LBL) with improved camp sites... I didn't pay attention to whether there was potable water, (I haul mine in) but the Dump Station just south of Golden Pond Visitor Center has potable water," notes Staci R.
