Located about an hour northwest of Nashville, Clarksville sits in the Cumberland River basin where average summer temperatures reach 89°F with high humidity levels. The area contains four distinct camping zones ranging from riverside locations to forest settings within the 170,000-acre Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with peak season extending from April through October.
What to do
Hiking at Montgomery Bell State Park: The park offers extensive trail systems across its 3,850 acres with varying difficulty levels. "There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," notes Faith S. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, who appreciated the historical sites integrated with natural features.
Water recreation on Kentucky Lake: Paddling opportunities abound at multiple access points with rentals available. A visitor to Energy Lake Campground shared, "The lake was gorgeous and perfect for kayaking though, with lots of nice coves to explore and wildlife to see. I saw a doe with a spotted fawn nursing on my first trip onto the water."
Explore Land Between the Lakes: This massive recreation area offers wildlife viewing, historical sites, and interpretive programs. "Checked out the Elk and Bison Prairie, which was really cool. Nature station was really cool and we rented some canoes to explore around that area. Went to the Homeplace, which is a working farm and 'living history museum,' which the kids really loved," wrote Mike D. about his family's adventures.
What campers like
Lake access for fishing: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water entry points for shore fishing or boat launching. According to Jason W. at Energy Lake Campground, "Access to Barkley or Energy Lake. Boat or bank fishing with a fishing pier and parking lots big enough for boat trailers."
Private sites in quieter campgrounds: Some smaller campgrounds provide more separation between campsites. Nicholas H. noted that Spring Creek Campground is a "Nice peaceful camp ground. Clean and we'll maintained. Can hear some road noise but generally quiet. The creek is nice and calm. Smaller area for tents but looks like the RV side was much larger."
Creek-side camping spots: Several campgrounds feature water-adjacent sites with creekside access. "Montgomery Bell State Park is very clean and quiet. We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees," shared Tammy P. about her experience at the park.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring preparation. A visitor to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park noted, "Sites are very sloped. Worst I've ever seen. Major drawback to this campground," highlighting the need to bring adequate leveling equipment.
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit near major roads with potential noise impacts. At Nashville North KOA, a reviewer mentioned, "Noisy due to the highway that runs right on the other side of the tree line," warning potential visitors about the sound levels.
Breed restrictions at some locations: Some private campgrounds limit certain dog breeds. Brandy W. cautions about Spring Creek Campground: "Make sure to ask about what breeds of dogs they allow. Couldn't stay due to my German Shepherd mix. Really wanted to though."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options vary significantly: Not all campgrounds offer equal play areas for children. A review of Piney Campground mentioned, "There is a store for camping needs, ice and wood. Swimming area, basketball, volleyball, boat ramp and playgrounds," indicating multiple recreation options for children.
Swimming areas have different features: Beach quality varies between locations with some more suitable than others. One camper at Pennyrile Forest observed, "The beach was amazing but it's first come first serve regardless if u camped there. It opens up at 10am."
Creek play opportunities: Several campgrounds offer safe water play in shallow creek areas. At Montgomery Bell, children "can wade in the creek all day," according to reviewer Tammy P., providing natural water play without the swimming pool crowds.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Many campgrounds have utilities positioned inconveniently. A reviewer at Lake Barkley State Resort Park advised, "Bath house clean, electric far from pads - bring extension cord," highlighting the need for longer-than-standard connections.
Challenging dump station layout: Some facilities have poorly designed waste disposal areas. Barry B. noted at Lake Barkley that "Even the dump is on an incline," which can complicate the waste disposal process for larger RVs.
Premium sites for larger rigs: For those seeking yurt camping near Clarksville, Tennessee or alternatives for larger RVs, Nashville KOA Resort offers more spacious accommodations. MickandKarla W. described it as having "the upgraded sites, cabins, and amenities to include a shuttle bus stop to make this a true resort," making it suitable for those with larger setups or seeking glamping-style accommodations and yurt camping options around Clarksville.
