Lake Camping Near Marion, Kentucky, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Marion, Kentucky, Hipcamp has got you covered. With over 540 options in the area, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot. Whether you prefer pitching a tent at The Art Farm Women's Retreat (73 reviews), going off the grid at Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (54 reviews), or enjoying the natural beauty of Tenelach Farm (45 reviews), there's something for everyone. Plus, with popular amenities like campfires, showers, and toilets, and activities like climbing, boating, and surfing, you'll have all the comforts and adventures you need for an unforgettable camping experience. The average price per night is $25, but with options as low as $10, you can find a camping experience to fit any budget.

99% (187)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Marion, Kentucky, Hipcamp has got you covered. With over 540 options in the area, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot. Whether you prefer pitching a tent at The Art Farm Women's Retreat (73 reviews), going off the grid at Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (54 reviews), or enjoying the natural beauty of Tenelach Farm (45 reviews), there's something for everyone. Plus, with popular amenities like campfires, showers, and toilets, and activities like climbing, boating, and surfing, you'll have all the comforts and adventures you need for an unforgettable camping experience. The average price per night is $25, but with options as low as $10, you can find a camping experience to fit any budget.

99% (187)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

48mi from Marion · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · Buncombe, IL

We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.

2. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

32mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stonefort, IL

50 well shaded campsites with three ponds, a playground for the kids and horse trails in the middle of Shawnee National Forest. Stalls available. Come hike or camp with us and visit nearby attractions like Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith springs and much more. 6 bedroom lodge available to rent just a room or the whole thing. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, tv, microwave and mini fridge. Full kitchen and living space available with a huge stone fireplace right in the middle. (Office is located in the lodge) We also provide primitive camping.

3. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

28mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Eddyville, IL

We live on 70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities that we would love to share with you. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away. Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, huge foot stool/table makes small bed. Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Fully equipped Kitchen with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates, silverware, as well as coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace, that has been converted to gas for easy lighting. Back deck has beautiful views of the lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the back deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. Plenty of DVD's, and games. 2 night minimum. Tent and RV camping sites: Shade and sunny areas available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. Quiet hour starts at 10:00 pm. The drive is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights (better to see the stars). Contact us if arrival before nightfall is not possible and we can help guide you to the areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. All dogs and people Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds, and one small mix breed that runs the place). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat for your use. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.

4. Barkley Lake

100%

(4)

191 sites · Grand Rivers, Kentucky

Make a splash at Lake Barkley, where everything from commercial marinas to bald eagle spottings will suit your every outdoor whim. A whopping 170,000 acres of recreation means you may have to extend your stay if you want to fit everything in on your to-do list. Kayak around the sparkling waters, fish the 57,000-acre lake for your next meal, or even hunt for some game. Nearby antique shops are the perfect spot to nab your next vintage typewriter, and a Civil War monument just adds to the historic significance. Whether you're interested in living off the land or grabbing a bite to eat at a renowned restaurant, Lake Barkley is your one-stop park for everything awesome.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

214 sites · Gilbertsville, Kentucky

Discover Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park's natural splendor.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. 3 Jewels Peace Garden

44mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cadiz, KY

Meditation practice onsite, including Buddhist daily practice and ce-5 on new moon Saturday. Guest cabin with 2 beds, linens, water jug, device charging, electric; Buddhist shrine with 4 soft Japanese tatami floor beds, electric, device charging, water jug; limited level tent camping with large group fire ring, 1 small rv (<24ft) allowed with no electric. Camp toilet on site. Composter available for vegetarian food waste. 7 gallon water jugs available for handwashing and pan washing, just use biodegradable soap. Although there are no showers available to campers/guests, on request I will take folks for a pool, sauna and steam spa day at Lake Barkley resort where I am a member, $10 cover per guest. Plenty of hiking is available at LBL, just 8 miles away. I can provide intel on good fishing and backcountry spots. There is fantastic antiquing and thrifting in Cadiz and Murray, and I can introduce you to the Amish market for the most affordable groceries you've ever bought in your life. Sometimes I cook for people especially if it's a group. It'll usually be vegan chili con carne and skillet cornbread, Korean chajangmen, or some tasty variety of Asian seasoned vegetable soup with homemade bread. I am 90% ovo-lacto vegetarian except in cases of hunting guests offering their own catfish, bass, venison, boar or turkey, in which case I fire up the bbq and get busy, because hunters are essential for environmental preservation. The fire ring is available for traditional cast iron cooking. Dogs under 50 lbs are welcome if they're trained, you clean up after them, keep them leashed around guests and kenneled at night. I have 2 small dogs and I can kennel them on request.

7. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

33mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stonefort, IL

Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property. ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.

8. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

99%

(35)

42mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldorado, IL

Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that. Learn more about this land: Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.

9. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

47mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents · Mt. Vernon, IN

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

10. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

4 sites · Equality, Illinois

The old site of springs and wells that once furnished brine, Saline County is bountiful in natural beauty. Though the springs and wells are no longer visible, the land still boasts more than a thousand acres of expansive scenery and a pristine lake that is just too tempting for swimmers and boaters alike to resist. Bring your tent or your trailer, with plenty of space to sprawl out and call your own. Want to sharpen your skills as an angler? Throw the line in for those bluegill, bass, or crappie that call the lake home. For hiking fanatics, there are plenty of trails to hit up, including Lake, Cave Hill, River, and Wildlife Nature Trail—offering plenty of scenic exploration. There is even a separate grounds and secluded trails for those of you who prefer to venture out on horseback. Whatever’s your fancy, this park is filled to the brim with goodness.

Pets

Campfires

13. Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(3)

79 sites · Cadiz, Kentucky

Discover Lake Barkley State Resort Park's natural splendor and activities.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Ferne Clyffe State Park

100%

(1)

84 sites · Goreville, Illinois

There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

15. Kenlake State Resort Park

100%

(3)

87 sites · Dexter, Kentucky

Discover Kenlake State Resort Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

16. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Marion

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

3 Jewels Peace Garden

44mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cadiz, KY

Meditation practice onsite, including Buddhist daily practice and ce-5 on new moon Saturday. Guest cabin with 2 beds, linens, water jug, device charging, electric; Buddhist shrine with 4 soft Japanese tatami floor beds, electric, device charging, water jug; limited level tent camping with large group fire ring, 1 small rv (<24ft) allowed with no electric. Camp toilet on site. Composter available for vegetarian food waste. 7 gallon water jugs available for handwashing and pan washing, just use biodegradable soap. Although there are no showers available to campers/guests, on request I will take folks for a pool, sauna and steam spa day at Lake Barkley resort where I am a member, $10 cover per guest. Plenty of hiking is available at LBL, just 8 miles away. I can provide intel on good fishing and backcountry spots. There is fantastic antiquing and thrifting in Cadiz and Murray, and I can introduce you to the Amish market for the most affordable groceries you've ever bought in your life. Sometimes I cook for people especially if it's a group. It'll usually be vegan chili con carne and skillet cornbread, Korean chajangmen, or some tasty variety of Asian seasoned vegetable soup with homemade bread. I am 90% ovo-lacto vegetarian except in cases of hunting guests offering their own catfish, bass, venison, boar or turkey, in which case I fire up the bbq and get busy, because hunters are essential for environmental preservation. The fire ring is available for traditional cast iron cooking. Dogs under 50 lbs are welcome if they're trained, you clean up after them, keep them leashed around guests and kenneled at night. I have 2 small dogs and I can kennel them on request.

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

33mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stonefort, IL

Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property. ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.

Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

99%

(35)

42mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldorado, IL

Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that. Learn more about this land: Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.

15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

47mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents · Mt. Vernon, IN

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

Public campgrounds near Marion

Eureka Campground

22mi from Marion · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

100%

(2)

Canal Campground

24mi from Marion · 114 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Kentucky Dam Village Campground

25mi from Marion · 214 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

100%

(1)

Dixon Springs Campground

25mi from Marion · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(2)

Hurricane Creek Campground

29mi from Marion · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Pennyrile Forest Campground

30mi from Marion · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

Saline County Campground

30mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(3)

Lake Barkley Campground

34mi from Marion · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(1)

Ferne Clyffe Campground

37mi from Marion · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

100%

(3)

Kenlake Campground

39mi from Marion · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kenlake State Resort Park

John James Audubon Campground

47mi from Marion · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in John James Audubon State Park

Stories from the community

D

Dom

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Genuinely the best experience I’ve had on HipCamp, AirBnB, anything. They are seriously the most accommodating, kind, humble, and helpful hosts I’ve ever had. I can’t say enough good about these two people. The cabin and the camping spots were so clean, well maintained, and roomy. The land is gorgeous. We will be back for sure.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

This was my second stay and for good reason. Jennifer is accommodating, friendly and the space is just great!

Beth

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

This is a lovely camp site near a small pond and a 5 minute walk to a new and very clean out house. Our camp hosts were very hospital, friendly and accommodating. They brought us lots of fire wood as it was pretty cold when we stayed there. We spent many hours around the large fire ring just talking and enjoying the quiet. We did not have clear skies so we weren't able to take advantage of the star gazing, but the area is free from light pollution and the nearby field would give you lots of space to star gaze. I highly recommend this site.

Katrina

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Spent the weekend tent camping. It was perfect! The owners were great. The land is beautiful and very dog friendly. The porta potty was very clean. This will be one of my favorites. So peaceful.

Megan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

We had an amazing time camping here! The host not only provided firewood, but also went above and beyond by building a fire for us while we were setting up out tent at dusk. So kind and welcoming! The property was beautiful, peaceful, and very well maintained. It felt like the safest place I've ever camped!! Would highly recommend this site!!

Kyle

October 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

The property is absolutely beautiful. We had some luck fishing and enjoyed the pond. The hosts are very attentive if you should need anything. The delivery of firewood was much appreciated! You are within 20 minutes of just about anything you want. There is some road noise, but not terrible.

L

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were amazing hosts! They were available whenever there were questions and the site was wonderful. Having more than enough room for a large group was a benefit and access to the pond and any firewood that was needed was a bonus. The porta potty was one of the cleanest I've seen and was close to the site. The site is about a 15 minute drive to the Garden of the Gods recreation area which is great as you are close by but not on top of a crowd of people. We camped with adults, a child, and a dog and everyone had a great time. I would highly recommend booking a trip to Sonny Hill and would love to come stay with Jennifer and John again in the future.

Scott

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

Tent camping here is great. The folks I met were all very friendly and helpful. The place is an operational farm with chickens, geese, horses and lots of cats. Directions were clear and straight forward. You are very close to the small town of Eldorado Illinois and they have a great pizza place, mimmos and the Mexican restaurant in town I was told is very good. Very unique experience camping on active farm. Enjoyed it very much.

D

Daniel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Flat soft ground, gorgeous property, super nice hosts. And the cleanest porta potty I've ever seen. Location is great - 10 minute drive to Garden of the Gods.

C

Chrysti

September 2025

Tent

4 nights at Sonny Hills

We have camped all over the country and this was hands down our favorite. The hosts are so kind and make sure you are comfortable and cared for. The property is stunning and perfect location to town or hiking trails. We are already missing the quiet and the peaceful view of the pond and trees. We highly recommend staying here and make sure to allow yourself time to enjoy the pond and property. They give you wood for fires and it burns better than what you get at normal parks. There is a kayak, paddleboard, row boat, fishing poles. This place truly has it all. 100% recommend them and hope to visit again soon.

Steve

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

1 night at Sonny Hills

Very nice property and great hosts. We would highly recommend this place if you are in the area.

Steve

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

What a fantastic place to spend a few days. The property is beautiful and the hosts are great. They made us feel right at home and took great care of us. I would highly recommend this spot and will hopefully return in the future.

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were great hosts! They would stop by to chat while still giving us privacy. John always made sure we had enough firewood and even brought the firewood to our site each day. It was very peaceful and relaxing camping by the pond. I would definitely camp here again. I would also highly recommend Sonny Hills for any solo female camper.

K

Kristen

August 2025

40 ft Class B

With pets

3 nights at Tall Tree Lake

This quiet site was perfect for our family trip. We loved the sunsets on the lake and hanging out by the fire. Highly recommend!

R

Robin

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

We loved our stay! The property was beautiful and they were so accommodating and friendly. And close to the things we went to do. The puppies were an added bonus! We would definitely stay again!

J

Jason

July 2025

25 ft Class C

4 nights at Sonny Hills

The friendliest hosts. Beautiful camping spot on the lake. Immaculate. Plus a great home base to explore the Shawnee. All with very friendly wolfhounds and of course Bill. We wholeheartedly recommend it! Jason and Paula

This large campsite has a small trail leading through the trees to a private pond. Walk a little further and you’re on the National Shawnee Forest Trail.

T

Ted

July 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Nice secluded spot on a beautiful property. Felt like we had our own getaway. Great people, would love to come back

F

Fionn

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Sonny Hills

It was a great stay with Jennifer and John, we loved the area and were taken care of very well.

J

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sonny Hills

Such an amazing stay! And absolutely love the hosts! Highly recommend!

D

Devi

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Sonny Hills

I loved my night here! I felt totally safe (solo female traveler) and my small dog found heaven. It is beautiful and peaceful. The hosts could not be better. It was magic and so close to great hiking. Everybody should be lucky enough to stay here. I tent camped, but there was also a cabin option that looked fantastic.