Kentucky Lake and the surrounding area provide multiple RV camping options near New Johnsonville, Tennessee. The terrain consists mostly of wooded areas around the 160,000-acre Kentucky Lake with elevations ranging from 375 to 600 feet. Campgrounds in this region typically remain open year-round, though many visitors come during peak fishing seasons from March through October when temperatures average 70-85°F.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: At Birdsong Resort and Marina Lakeside RV and Tent Campground, campers have immediate water access. "Quiet, near shopping, family oriented, Pet friendly, boat launch, shore fishing, store, pull through sites, friendly helpful staff, tent sites, great place to camp," notes one reviewer.
Kayaking and swimming: The Buffalo River offers excellent paddling opportunities at Crazy Horse Recreational Park. "We love to come here for when we kayak the Buffalo. Plenty of open river front campsites and shuttles to or from the camp (depending on which route you take)," shares a camper. The park features a popular swimming hole where "we loved watching the younger crowd jump off the cliff into the water."
Hiking and wildlife viewing: At Harmony Ridge RV Park, visitors can explore nearby Buffalo River trails. "Jake from the Dyrt here! The Woodlands at Buffalo River is the perfect spot to enjoy a weekend (or longer) on the river while you explore the surrounding ridges," mentions a reviewer.
What campers like
Cleanliness and organization: Parkers Crossroads RV Park and Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "So well design, it is the perfect campground organization. It is very well maintain which makes it beautiful. I am almost sure I am the first person to ever use the bathroom, it was that clean," writes one camper.
Quiet locations: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings despite their proximity to highways. I 40 Hideaway surprises guests with its tranquility: "We thought the traffic noise would be bad being so close to I40 but we didn't even hear it. We had a tent site with water and power."
Helpful staff: Eagles Nest RV Park stands out for exceptional service. "Our campground hosts Shirley and Bobby were just phenomenal. Helpful, kind, and friendly. They assisted in helping us back in and ensured we were good to go. They would personally stop by to check-in," notes a reviewer.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Road conditions vary significantly when approaching certain campgrounds. At Piney River Resort, a camper warns: "Staff we talked to was very kind but the drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side. We took the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Reservation policies: While some parks accept walk-ins, popular spots fill quickly. "We enjoyed our time here but there are some things to know about this park. Most importantly, there is a special way to get into this park. They have a low bridge right outside of their park that prevents you from getting here the easy way," mentions a visitor at Thousand Trails Natchez Trace.
Campground layouts: Site designs and placements differ across parks. Eagles Nest RV Park features "concrete pads with full service utility kiosks," while Piney River Resort has "very clean" sites that are "nicely spaced."
Tips for camping with families
Designated family areas: Crazy Horse Recreational Park offers separate camping zones. "Has a family side and another rowdy side across the river. Family side quiet time begins at 10 pm," explains a camper. This separation helps ensure appropriate environments for children.
Water recreation opportunities: Kids particularly enjoy swimming at Piney River Resort. "Our girls enjoyed swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Paved sites, fire ring, fire wood for sale, very clean campground, and only 45 mins to Nashville," shares a visitor.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. Thousand Trails Natchez Trace provides "Lots of stuff to find yourself doing to relaxing by the water to playing bingo at the hall! To renting a kayak or pontoon! Has dog park and swimming pool and beach area!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At I 40 Hideaway, travelers appreciate the convenient overnight stays: "Needed a place to camp for the night and this fit the bill." The campground provides basic amenities for comfortable stops.
Connectivity considerations: Internet and cellular service vary widely between parks. At Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, a camper reports: "I had absolutely no cell service through Verizon and my T-Mobile 5g internet had no reception either (even with a booster). Luckily, I was able to rely on my Starlink."
Utility management: RVers should note water pressure variations at different campgrounds. Parkers Crossroads RV Park advises using water pressure reducers. Southern Comfort RV Park offers "50 and 30 amp full hookups free WiFi," which appeals to those needing reliable connections.
