Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area offers primitive and developed camping options near Eva, Tennessee. The region spans over 170,000 acres with more than 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline along Kentucky and Barkley Lakes. Water levels typically rise in spring and early summer, with temperatures ranging from mid-80s to low 90s during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Boat access camping: Boswell Landing Campground provides direct lake access with spacious campsites near the water. "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 exploration: The area has significant Civil War history within walking distance of several campsites. "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. from Boswell Landing Campground.
Waterfront activities: Kentucky Lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating at multiple access points. A visitor to Piney Campground shared, "Nice campground with electric hookups... Overall, I'd recommend if you can get a spot on the water, or you bring a boat."
What campers like
Affordable options: Basic sites with essential amenities offer budget-friendly glamping in Eva, Tennessee. Michael W. from Piney Campground noted, "Really nice spots have both non electric and electric. With America Beautiful Pass only 8 dollars a night non. Lots of trees with lake access."
Clean facilities: Despite being rural, many campgrounds maintain exceptional cleanliness. Brooklyn L. observed at Boswell Landing, "There is single toilet facility for all of the sites, this toilet was the cleanest public camping toilet I've ever seen."
Seasonal activities: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground offers special events throughout the camping season. One camper mentioned, "We took our 3 young kids during monsoon season and the staff where amazing and getting the kids out and into nature!"
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have limited waterfront availability that books quickly. Jody A. advises about Land Between The Lakes Piney Campground, "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date."
Limited services: Many primitive sites lack running water. Michael L. shared about his Piney Campground experience: "HUGE lakeside campsite. Only downside is no water so come prepared."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. Sara C. reported about Paris Landing State Park: "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."
Busy boat traffic: Popular waterfront sites may experience boat traffic. Ryan B. mentioned about Boswell Landing: "This place was very nice and well kept. My only problem with it was that people fly in and out of the cove on their boats."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational facilities: Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA provides family-friendly amenities. Tanya A. shared, "This campground is small but super nice! 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!"
Kid-friendly accommodations: Montgomery Bell State Park offers family camping options. Tammy P. noted, "Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees. The park has tons of activities and good hiking trails."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature bike-friendly layouts. Ronnie S. commented about Piney Campground: "Been going here since I was a kid. Its a great place to camp with great bike trails and everything you need."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Paris Landing State Park Campground presents some leveling difficulties. Joel R. warned, "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to fine a level site."
Campsite navigation: Some sites require special maneuvering. Todd M. advised about Paris Landing, "It's a tight fit and our rig is only 22.5' TT. 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."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. At Paris Landing, Todd M. encountered issues: "Had water and electrical hook up but the 30 amp was fried. Luckily it also had 20 amp so power management was key."
