Kentucky Lake dominates the camping landscape near New Johnsonville, Tennessee, with numerous campsites offering direct water access and lake views. The region features several designated campgrounds within Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which spans 170,000 acres across western Kentucky and Tennessee. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures between 65-80°F.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Montgomery Bell State Park contains several historic features including an old church and remnants of iron industry. One visitor noted, "The best part of our stay was the tour of the plantation and Loretta Lynn's Museum" at Loretta Lynn's Ranch.
Enjoy lake activities: Kentucky Lake provides extensive fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. A camper at Piney Campground said, "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite."
Experience family recreation: Many campgrounds offer designated play areas and organized activities. At Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA, a visitor mentioned, "They have a very nice pool and pool area, huge laundromat, a fun gemmine for the kiddos!"
Take nature hikes: The region offers numerous hiking trails through hardwood forests. At Montgomery Bell State Park, a reviewer shared, "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church."
What campers like
Waterside camping: Direct water access is highly valued by visitors. A camper at Boswell Landing Campground stated, "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."
Shade coverage: The mature forests provide relief from summer heat. At Paris Landing State Park Campground, a visitor appreciated that "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups... The campground is in a hardwood forest, so there is lots of shade."
Variety of accommodation options: From basic tent camping to luxury glamping near New Johnsonville, there are choices for every preference. One visitor at Loretta Lynn's Ranch noted, "Lots of options for all types of camping. They have equestrian spots, RV spots, tent spots, and cabins for rent. Plus so much to do on the property!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are frequently mentioned in reviews. At Buffalo I-40-Exit 143 KOA, a camper commented, "It's a well maintained resort. Had a decent dog park. Sites were nicely spaced."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. A reviewer at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area advised, "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. At Buffalo I-40-Exit 143 KOA, a camper warned, "Extremely loud traffic noise - you really couldn't get closer to the highway unless you were park on an on-ramp."
Seasonal crowds: The popularity of the area means summer weekends can be busy. A camper at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground observed, "It was very active during one of the last weekends of the season. While quiet hours were observed, there was a lot of music, celebrating a Tennessee win with a golf cart parade."
Site levelness: Several campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Paris Landing State Park, a visitor cautioned, "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to fine a level site."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Multiple play areas keep children entertained. A visitor to Montgomery Bell State Park highlighted, "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events."
Consider seasonal activities: Some campgrounds offer special programs during certain times. At Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA, a camper appreciated the "fun gemmine for the kiddos! The camp store is stocked with necessities and fun things!"
Look for water-based recreation: Lake access provides natural entertainment. A Boswell Landing visitor shared, "Each site has a concrete picnic table and fire ring as well... We had two dogs out there with us and they had so much space to roam."
Check bathroom proximity: Families with young children benefit from sites near facilities. At Montgomery Bell, a reviewer noted, "We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for longer rigs. At Mansard Island Resort and Marina, a visitor observed, "While Mansard may not be well maintained, it offers the basics and a couple of decent amenities."
Hookup locations: Position and reach of utilities can be challenging at some sites. A Buffalo I-40 Exit 143 KOA visitor mentioned, "Full hookups and they were well situated on the pad, pretty level spot."
Power management: Not all sites have consistent electrical service. At Paris Landing State Park Campground, an RVer shared, "Had water and electrical hook up but the 30 amp was fried. Luckily it also had 20 amp so power management was key."
Dump station availability: Know where to empty tanks before departing. At Piney Campground, a camper noted, "Nice campground with electric hookups. One central dump station and multiple areas with community water spigots."
