Kenlake State Resort Park

Kenlake State Resort Park is very nice, but the campground is kind of forgotten on the other side of the 68/80 bypass. First be aware there are several seasonal campers who pretty much feel like they own the place, so their children's running around on golf carts, bicycles and walking through your camp to get to the "trail" between the two sides of the campground may make you uncomfortable. Second, in August the State park hosts Hot August Blues, so the campground will be booked solid well in advance for that weekend. Third, it is a nice campground, well kept, with amenities and it is located next to Kentucky Lake, and not really too far from some moderately large cities like Murray or Benton. There are no major retailers nearby, except the local convenience stores and the ever infamous Dollar General.  Belew's Dairy Dip is also nearby, a few Mom & Pop restaurants, and "antique" general store that has the largest ever selection of soda pops, and that is about it. My experience with the restaurant at the state park did not improve any from last year's visit, so I don't know that I'll return.  The amenities you expect (bath house, hook ups) are here though, so if you want to be close to Land Between the Lakes, hiking, fishing or just being out doors, this is a good and affordable option. Next door is some historic areas with signage to guide you and explain the significance of the original park (see the photo of the historical marker).

I love State Parks, but as has been the norm in recent years due to funding cuts, Kenlake has declined in its appeal.

The camp ground is split away from the actual park by 68/80, a four lane highway, and there are zero direction signs telling you to turn toward Aurora instead of into the park. The "check in" was quick, but there is no fire wood available, no ice available, there is nothing, but, "a Dollar General about a mile or so up the road has everything." So does "Walmart" 15 miles down the road. Water and electric hook-ups are at least 50 plus feet from your pad, so bring extra power cords and water hoses! Most pads decline toward the lake, so secure chock blocks are a must, and pads have a 3- 18 inch drop off around the edges... ankles beware! And the children on golf carts nearly running us over most of the day & night, then their angry parents.... thankfully the Park's Law Enforcement was very professional, but overworked. Land Between the Lakes is also very close, and convenient for hiking, geocashing, and structured outdoor attractions.

We were on a cross-country trip headed back to Georgia.  This was our last night before arriving home.  The camping space we were assigned was wonderful, right on the water with a cute little deck attached.  Unfortunately, our neighbor had taken the 30 AMP hook-up and we did not have a 50 AMP line so we had to move away from the water.  No big deal as we were only there for the night. The spaces were a nice distance apart.  This is a very old campground so it does need some TLC.  The bathroom was clean but very old.  We did not get to explore that park at all but it was on a beautiful lake and a lot of campers were having fun.