Dispersed camping options near Dover, Tennessee concentrate around Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, spanning 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The area features a mix of established facilities and primitive sites along 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Most dover tn campgrounds operate year-round, though several implement seasonal closures from November to March when temperatures average 30-50°F.
What to do
Watercraft access points: At Boswell Landing Campground, campers enjoy convenient lake entry. "Direct put in is an option or if you have a bigger watercraft the boat ramp is right there," notes a visitor who appreciates the proximity to the water.
Fishing opportunities: Kentucky Lake provides excellent bass and crappie fishing year-round. "We fished, we hiked, we kayaked!! We all enjoyed the peaceful exclusivity this site offers," shares a camper at Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area.
Historical exploration: Fort Donelson National Historic Site sits minutes from several campgrounds. "Located in LBL and near Paris Landing SP, Fort Donelson NHS, and everything that LBL has to offer in the South and North units," mentions a camper about Piney Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The recreation area hosts abundant wildlife including wild turkeys, deer, and over 240 bird species. "Saw a lot of wildlife for such a big campground with lots of people traffic," reports a visitor to Piney Campground.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Many Dover area campsites provide direct water access. "Good size lots, most within feet of the water. Lots of trees so there's plenty of shade," explains a visitor to Boswell Landing.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking solitude, undeveloped sites offer peaceful settings. "Ginger Bay is very remote but as always, remote is totally worth it," shares one camper about the more rustic camping areas.
Family-friendly amenities: Paris Landing State Park Campground provides convenient facilities. "Nice campground. Has showers. Close to marina. You can rent boats there. Has separate access to swimming area, you don't have to try to cross the busy highway," notes a visitor.
Clean facilities: Maintained restrooms are available at most established campgrounds. "The showerhouse was wheelchair accessible and well maintained," reports a camper at Bumpus Mills.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to some dover tennessee campgrounds requires traversing unpaved roads. "You will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get down the steep gravel road to the dispersed camping area," warns a camper at Ginger Bay.
Seasonal differences: Some campgrounds operate year-round while others close seasonally. "This campground closes the first week of September," notes a Bumpus Mills visitor.
Campsite layouts: Terrain can affect site selection. "Kids were so excited about seeing a turkey by the camper in the morning. It was hard to choose a site just because they were all so nice on a small hill overlooking the water (though they do vary in shade)," shares a camper.
Site reservations: Popular waterfront locations fill quickly, particularly at Piney Campground. "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date," advises one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple recreation areas throughout the region offer play spaces. "There is a pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout," mentions a visitor to Piney Campground.
Water activities: The lakes provide safe swimming areas for children. "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 a camper.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds feature bike-friendly roads. "Big campground, with nice bathhouses, and boat ramp. Sites are a little close together but nice. A pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout. Well maintained, friendly staff," notes a visitor.
Wildlife education: The Nature Station within Land Between the Lakes offers family programming. "Kids were so excited about seeing a turkey by the camper in the morning," shares a Bumpus Mills camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "We could not maneuver our 36' MH into our assigned spot because of the drop off on the side of the road," cautions a visitor to Dover.
Hookup availability: Electrical and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "There are only 15 sites so it's small but not crowded. Several sites have 50A service, the rest have 30A and all have water," explains a Bumpus Mills visitor.
Leveling considerations: Terrain can be challenging at some sites. "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to fine a level site," warns a camper.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "No sewer onsite but there is a dumpstation at the entrance/exit. The roads are NARROW and tree-lined, so I don't recommend any rig over 30'," advises a Bumpus Mills visitor.
