Best Lake Barkley Campgrounds in Kentucky for Camping

After Kentucky Dam was built in 1944, people living near the Cumberland River started asking for another dam. Their wish came true in the late 1950s when the US Army Corps of Engineers announced plans for a new dam just two miles east of Kentucky Dam.

In 1964, the closure of the gates at Barkley Dam led to the creation of Lake Barkley. This required the complete relocation of many communities, including Kuttawa and Eddyville.

Railroads, major US highways, homes, and even cemeteries had to be moved to accommodate the new lake. Today's City of Eddyville, located along US 62, is entirely new, having been moved to its current location in the early 1960s. Much of the old town now lies submerged underwater.

Land Between the Lakes (Barkley Lake)

When they made Lake Barkley, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) realized it would create a peninsula with Kentucky Lake and a canal between the two dams. Locals called this spot "Between The Rivers." It was super rural, kinda cut off, and not exactly thriving.

So, TVA decided to turn the area into a massive recreation zone called "Land Between The Lakes" (LBL). They started buying up land from folks living there.

But man, it stirred up some serious controversy! Some families were dead set against selling their land. Still, TVA used eminent domain and by the late '60s, they'd relocated everyone.

You can still see traces of the old homes, churches, businesses, and roads all over LBL. Plus, there are tons of cemeteries, looked after by families and volunteers.

Nowadays, Land Between The Lakes is this huge 170,000-acre National Recreation Area. It's got loads of cool stuff like attractions, campgrounds, and historical sites. And get this, there are no businesses or residents there, so it's like the ultimate nature getaway.

When you're checking out Land Between The Lakes, you've got a bunch of campgrounds with sandy beach and picnic area around Lake Barkley to pick from.

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1. SkallyWag Dispersed on da Homestead

This is a stunning 5-acre homestead nestled in the peaceful countryside, where there's plenty of room for camping and exploration.

Surrounded by towering trees, lush vegetation, and featuring a charming pond, winding walking trails, a vibrant garden, a fruitful orchard, and a delightful babbling creek, there's no shortage of natural beauty here.

Don't be surprised to run into their lively crew of free-range chickens, ducks, and the adorable Spud Muffin McGhee, their mini pot-bellied pig.

Now, let's talk amenities:

• Behind the barn, you'll find a spacious area with a table, four chairs, and a comfy oversized couch swing.

• They've got two compost toilets for your convenience.

• Need to charge up? No worries, they've got electric outlets available.

• Freshen up with our basic solar camp showers.

• Help yourself to well water (but bring a large container to collect it).

• Gather 'round the fire at our large group-size fire ring or opt for a more intimate setting with our two small fire rings tucked away in the back property.

• Spread out in our expansive open fields, perfect for group camping.

• Explore our walking paths or find your own secluded camping spot.

And if you're itching to explore the area, here are some local attractions:

• Loretta Lynn’s Ranch offers tours, a museum, and hosts events and concerts just 20 miles away.

• Take a dip or paddle along the Kentucky River, also 20 miles away.

• Visit the Humphrey's County Museum & Civil War Fort just a short 10-mile jaunt.

• Check out the intriguing Walls of Waverly art installation, also 10 miles away.

• Get your antique fix in McEwen and Waverly.

• Discover history at the New Johnsonville State Historic Park, just 20 miles away.

• Relax on the white sand beach at Turkey Creek, also 20 miles away.

• And if you're up for a day trip, Nashville is just 65 miles away, about an hour's drive.

Don't forget to explore the local swimming holes for some refreshing fun!

2. Fox Field Farms Creekside Camping

Set up your tent right by the creek, nestled under the trees where you can drift off to sleep with the soothing sounds of the water. Choose between their 10x10 raised tent site or find a cozy spot among the trees.

There's plenty to do here - hike the trails, take a refreshing dip in the creek (yep, they've got a couple of swimming spots), try your luck at fishing, or simply unwind by the fire.

Keep an eye out for eagles, blue herons, beavers, and maybe catch a glimpse of a cunning fox. And if you're lucky, you might even catch the serene call of the whippoorwills as night falls.

For those itching to kayak or canoe, the Piney River is just a short 20-minute drive away. Don't forget to bring your bikes for some fantastic gravel rides around Hickman County!

As for amenities, they've got you covered with picnic tables, benches, firewood, and a composting toilet.

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3. The Love Shack

Right at the center of lovely Lake Beshear in Dawson Springs, Kentucky, they've got a mix of woods, fields, and a peaceful pond where you can kick back, relax, and maybe even meditate a bit.

And if you're itching for some water fun, Lake Beshear's spillway and boat dock are practically in their backyard, less than 3 miles away.

Plus, there's a whole slew of adventures waiting for you within a 30-minute drive, from water parks to kayaking spots. You and your family are bound to have a blast during your stay!

4. The Creekside JeWeL

They've got 73 acres of peaceful rolling hills nestled right by Lake Barkley and Eddie Creek. You'll find plenty of wooded areas, open meadows, and prime Creekside camping spots.

Whether you're into fishing, wildlife spotting, shooting (just remember to follow firearm rules), hunting, ATV riding, kayaking, canoeing, boating, or simply soaking in the tranquility, they've got something for everyone! All groups are welcome to enjoy this natural sportsman's paradise.

Just a heads up, they've got 73 acres of secluded rolling hills located on Lake Barkley/Eddie Creek. Lots of woods, meadows, and Creekside camping available.

Fishing, wildlife, shooting (please note firearm rules) hunting, ATV riding, kayaking, canoeing, boating, or nothing at all! All groups are welcome at this sportsman's recreational au natural Hipcamp!

5. Big Bear Resort Campground

Nestled in the picturesque Big Bear Embayment of Kentucky Lake, right at the confluence of Malcolm and Bear Creeks, you'll find Big Bear Resort on Kentucky Lake. With a storied history of providing fun-filled family entertainment on the water and cozy accommodations, it's no wonder guests keep coming back year after year.

The resort first opened its doors back in 1948 as a humble fishing camp. It all started when Louisville schoolteacher Robert MacFarland and his wife decided to check out this newly formed lake in the far reaches of western Kentucky.

What began as a casual visit for the couple soon turned into the opportunity of a lifetime. Over the span of nearly 70 years, that little fishing camp has blossomed into one of the premier resorts in western Kentucky.

6. Kentucky Lake Glamping

Experience the ultimate camping – or rather, "glamping" – adventure at Kentucky Lake!

With seven retro campers transformed into luxurious "glampers," cozy tiny homes, The Gull House rental, a fully equipped site, an onsite café, updated bathhouses, laundry facilities, pontoon and kayak rentals, and a glamping store, Kentucky beautiful lake resort has everything you need for an unforgettable trip to Kentucky Lake! And hey, it is not a canal campground, be warned.

7. Lakeview Cottages & Marina

Nestled on the shores of Cypress Bay, Lakeview Cottages & Marina is a go-to spot for folks who love the great outdoors, whether it's casting a line into the lake or heading out for some prime hunting.

They've built up quite the reputation for being the kind of place where everyone feels like family, and they work hard every day to live up to that standard.

Just a scroll through their Facebook reviews tells you everything you need to know. Guests rave about the personalized care they get here. Whenever they need something special, the staff goes above and beyond to make sure they have everything they need for a fantastic and safe getaway.

If you're in town for a fishing tournament, Lakeview Cottages & Marina has you covered. Their cabins are conveniently located, and they've got all the amenities you and your family could ask for. And when you're not out on the water, there's plenty to do in the nearby communities that dot this beautiful lakeside region.

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8. Swan Bay Cabins & RV Park

At Swan Bay Cabins & RV Park, you'll find charming one-bedroom, one-bathroom cabins nestled just a stone's throw away from Kentucky Lake and Paris Landing State Park.

They have 26 full hook-up sites available, and they offer discounts for those looking for extended stays. The entrance of the park is easy to access meaning you won't be caught up in a queue not at all.

9. Venture River RV Park

Can you believe it? I mean, seriously, what more could a kid possibly want outside of natural attractions like the outdoor pool games and a great meal?

They're talking water slides, wave pools, volleyball, and camping all rolled into one awesome package! It's like a dream come true! And guess what? It's finally here! They've done it all – leveled the ground, set up the sites, built the bathhouse, and even planted trees!

Welcome to Venture River RV Park, right smack dab onsite at Venture River Waterpark in Eddyville, Kentucky. They're all about family fun here, folks.

Picture this: 40 RV sites, 10 primitive campsites, a spanking new bathhouse complete with showers, a nifty little camp store stocked with all your camping essentials, a lake just begging for some fishing action, plus kayak and paddleboat rentals for those who love to paddle away.

Oh, and let's not forget the playground – gotta keep those little ones entertained, right? So yeah, they've got it all covered!

10. Outback RV Resort

Alright, this is Outback RV Resort! It's the place where families come to chill, hang out by the pool, kick back by their campfires, or join in on all the cool stuff happening during the season.

Their park is on 24 pretty acres of woods. We've got 86 level full hook-up campsites, and most of them you can just drive right through, with some shady spots and some open ones.

Outback RV Resort is known as a nice, clean, and friendly place to crash. We're super close to I-24, just a mile away, and only 2½ miles from Lake Barkley's access.

And hey, while you're here, why not take a drive and explore Amish country, play some golf, check out Land Between the Lakes, or grab a bite at one of the awesome restaurants nearby?

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11. Eureka Campground

Eureka Campground is nestled on the shores of Lake Barkley, surrounded by lush wooded hills and teeming with wildlife.

Fishing is a big deal around here; in fact, Kentucky's biggest yellow bass was reeled in from these very waters, so anglers come from far and wide, hoping to snag their own record-breaking catch. Eureka has enough space for your whole family, so why not make it your perfect destination?

12. Holiday Hills Resort

Holiday Hills Resort sits right on Lake Barkley and offers campsites, cabins, and townhouses. Dive into their 50,000-gallon pool, hit up the playground, chill out in the pavilion, and more.

Their digs can fit up to 60 folks, making it awesome for big gatherings or family reunions. Plus, we've got slips for their overnight guests. Whether you're after a speedy weekend escape or a longer vacay, Holiday Hills Resort is the spot to be!

13. Lake Barkley State Resort Park

Located in Cadiz, just 3.7 km from Lake Barkley State Park and 16 km from Calhoun Hill Public Use Area, which could be a short drive from your place, Lake Barkley State Resort Park boasts a restaurant.

You'll find air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi at this 2-star holiday park, along with an indoor pool. Kentucky Woodlands National Wildlife Refuge is 24 km away, and Prizer Point Public Use Area is 25 km from the park.

Donaldson Creek Public Use Area is also 25 km from the park, while Linton Public Use Area is a bit further at 27 km. If you're flying in, Barkley Regional Airport is the closest, sitting 105 km from Lake Barkley State Resort Park.

14. Eddy Creek Marina Resort

We've got it all at Echo Charlie's Bayside! From cozy motel rooms to rustic cabins, an RV park, and boat rentals, we've got your lakeside getaway covered.

Dive into fun with our sandy beach, cool off in the swimming pool, or have a blast at the picnic area and playground. This campground has space for large gatherings, antique shops, and a picnic table for games with your entire family.

Available resources include a boat ramp, water view cottages, bedroom cottages, a dining room, a general store, as well as easy access to the internet.

Plus, don't miss out on some delicious eats at Echo Charlie's Bayside Restaurant right here on-site! As you plan to visit them, make sure you are ready for a variety of attractions and live entertainment from the camp host. Just put your name in their good book!

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15. Fat Daddy's Resort & Marina

"A bit of the Keys right here in Tennessee." Fat Daddy's is the place to be, smack dab on the shores of Kentucky Lake in Dover, Tennessee. Grab some ice-cold drinks, dig into tasty grub, and groove to live tunes every weekend.

Plus, we've got campsites and a marina for your ultimate lakeside experience. If you love making fire, Fat Daddy has firewood policy which you have to adhere to. Check their main website for physical address.