Dispersed camping in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area provides multiple primitive campsites within driving distance from Clarksville, Tennessee. The region features wooded peninsulas extending into Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley with over 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-45°F, while summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At LBL FS154 - Dispersed, campers report various animal encounters. "Forrest service checks in with dispersed campers often, so staying longer than the time allowed is usually not an option, but there are also other really nice dispersed areas near by to move to," notes Staci R., who also mentions hearing coyotes at night.
Fishing access: Several sites offer direct lakefront access for fishing. At Forest Service Rd 343, Andrew C. reports, "This is one of the best spots I've found on this app. I had one other person show up to cook, but they left shortly after. Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!"
Swimming: Many sites permit direct water access for swimming during warmer months. "Would recommend swimming in the water nearby and would recommend seeing the buffalo on the way in or out," suggests Katie about Forest Service Rd 343. The shorelines are typically natural and may be rocky or muddy depending on lake levels.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites provide peaceful camping experiences away from crowds. Andrea L. says of LBL FS-326, "This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake. It was quiet most of the time."
Affordability: Free camping near Clarksville, Tennessee is available at some sites. "Dispersed camping is a $10 fee. If you have the National Park pass you can go to a self check in campground for $5," explains Darryl H. about Forest Service Rd 343, while Vegan T. adds, "You don't very often find free spots in national parks. There is dispersed and standard. The standard has a fee but the dispersed is free."
Scenic waterfront sites: Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road offers water views and natural surroundings. Nick K. mentions, "Not free, but worthwhile for a small fee. My family and I loved spending time at this spot!" Most sites feature established fire rings and enough flat space for tents.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads vary in quality and may require appropriate vehicles. Sean from LBL FS154 notes, "You might need 4wd; it had rained all day before I got here and there were some rough/sloppy patches in the road. The pit toilet at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away."
Permit requirements: Camping permits are required for most dispersed sites. "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers," advises Staci R. about LBL FS154.
Limited facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. "This campsite is very popular, even though there are ZERO AMENITIES, which means you need to know and understand sanitation ('cat holes') as there are no port-a-johns or vault toilets, there is also NO POTABLE water, so you either pack it in or bring your filter and drink lake water," explains Staci R. regarding Neville Bay.
Site availability concerns: Popular spots fill quickly during peak seasons. Ralph S. from Forest Service Rd 343 reports, "The first day I was visited by an older man on a dirt bike who was just out riding. The next morning an older man on a horse stopped to talk and a couple in a Cherokee stopped to chat. Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with toilet access: When camping with children, sites with vault toilets are more convenient. Jeff F. describes Neville Bay: "Beautiful view. Vault toilet. Well kept." Jordan adds, "Mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend."
Bring water filtration: No potable water exists at most sites. Katie advises about Forest Service Rd 343, "There was a hand full of dispersed camp sites on this road. Unfortunately the best one on the water was taken when we showed up but we set up in a different site and had a wonderful night."
Prepare for bugs: The area has typical woodland insects, particularly in summer months. Mosquitoes are common near water, especially at dusk. Jason W. from Neville Bay notes it as "Very clean, well maintained primitive campground on the south end of LBL. Four stars, for what it is. If there was electric and water it would be a solid 5. Secluded but still accessible."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Most dispersed sites have limited space for larger vehicles. Micheal reports about Neville Bay, "Nice little area to camp at. Well suited for tents. Most of the area isn't very level. The road going back there is gravel. We went with our 30 ft travel trailer. There is no hook ups. Can run generator until 11pm."
Level parking considerations: Finding flat spots for larger RVs can be challenging. Elisha S. warns about Forest Service Rd 343, "This is down a very rickety, rutty, gravel to a campsite that is just ruts and there's no place for a tent."
Be prepared for remoteness: RVers should bring all supplies as services are distant. Tobias R. explains about Forest Service Rd 343, "A secluded lakeside spot with a fire pit. We saw three other spots on the way in which looked nice as well. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections."
