The best campgrounds in Kentucky Lake with swimming

At Kentucky Lake, campers who love swimming have over 1,100 options to set up camp right by the water. You’ll find everything from secluded wooded sites to grassy patches just steps from the shore, all with easy access to a swim. The average night runs about $35, but you can snag a spot for as little as $15. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are common here, and you can break up your lake time with fishing, horseback riding, or a long hike. If you’re looking for a standout spot, check out The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (61 reviews), or Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews).

100% (201)

Top-rated campgrounds

At Kentucky Lake, campers who love swimming have over 1,100 options to set up camp right by the water. You’ll find everything from secluded wooded sites to grassy patches just steps from the shore, all with easy access to a swim. The average night runs about $35, but you can snag a spot for as little as $15. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are common here, and you can break up your lake time with fishing, horseback riding, or a long hike. If you’re looking for a standout spot, check out The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (61 reviews), or Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews).

100% (201)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Art Farm

98%

(201)

31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paducah, KY

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

2. Burdoc Farms

96%

(14)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Crofton, KY

LOCATED IN THE NATURAL SCENERY OF WESTERN KENTUCKY JUST NORTH OF NASHVILLE, TN. Burdoc Farms is nestled in the idyllic natural green hills. Burdoc Farms offers a true and relaxed experience for your once in a lifetime event.With over 650 acres of open fields and forest, Burdoc Farms has been in the Shepherd family for over 80 years. The farm was once a tobacco and cattle farm, producing national champion Shorthorn Beef Cattle in the 60’s. When Keith and Sara Shepherd took over operations in the 90’s the farm was converted to a conservation farm, with timber management, wildlife habitat, recreation and agritourism becoming the main focus of farm operations. Learn more about this land: With over 650 acres to chose from you can camp in open fields or wooded areas on our 100 year old family farm! We love sharing our farm with other conservation minded guest, but if you need access to modern amenities we can accommodate you too. We have over 10 miles of trails to explore nature on your own. If you just want to sit by a fire and relax we have a communal fireplace or fire pit. We have a pond for fishing or swimming whatever you heart desires. Pets are allowed and welcome. Be sure to bring your sense of wonder and take your walkabout on Burdoc Farms!

3. Flying D Ranch

100%

(12)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Murray, KY

Rand McNally and USA Today have awarded Murray the title of “Friendliest Small Town in America." The award comes from the organizations' Best of the Road contest. RARE ONE OF A KIND space situated on over 26 beautifully manicured acres. Many unique features. a 50 amp, 30 amp and 110 RV hookup available. 2 stocked fishing ponds. Fabulous 50,000 gallon custom saltwater swimming pool accompanied by a spacious ranch style pavilion with outdoor kitchen and full bath. Fiber Optics internet , Smart television, Acres to choose a tent site, all mowed grass with trees for shade. Bass, catfish and blue gill abound. Bald Eagle and Osprey sightings. Red Tail and Red Shoulder hawks everywhere. Lessor Canadian Geese with families make the ponds home. Deer and turkey join us every day. Hiking path around both ponds and down past the pastures. Pool sits atop a hill to catch the breeze. Located a quarter mile away from the road for private and serene camping. Check in time is noon and check out is noon also. Located just 7 miles away from Murray State University. Corn fields, Soy beans and Tobacco fields are the main topographical features. 20 miles to Land Between the Lakes, 27 miles to Paris Landing, 18 miles to Mayfield.

4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

94%

(19)

403 sites · Tennessee

Discover Land Between the Lakes: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

5. 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

6. Santa's Woods

5 sites · Tents · Camden, TN

If you love trees and old growth forest this is the place to camp. If you really love to camp roughly with a tent, a hammock, tarp shelter, or just under the stars this is the place to camp. All manner of four wheel drive vehicles are welcome to set up camp. There are no set designated sites established, you will be free to hike in and pack to a spot of your choosing or use your four wheel drive vehicle. Santa has a jeep as well as a 6 seater Polaris Ranger to help you to get you to a spot. We are near the Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River, so plenty of outdoor activities nearby. Santa has some trails on property for hiking, mountain biking, or even off road vehicles. Most trails for off road are for small four wheelers, utvs, and Jeep size. Some logging roads have been made and Santa is working on more trails to sites.

7. Whiskey Meadows

100%

(2)

1 site · RV · Grand Rivers, KY

Whiskey Meadows has a serene meadow view with a few shade trees that entice the use of a hammock. It has cell service, local restaurant ( .2 mi). The Parking area is about 200 Ft from the main road down a driveway. The location is within 10 minutes (5mi.) drive to KY Lake, Lake Barkley, Land Between the Lakes, downtown Grand Rivers, and Patties 1880 Settlement.

8. Eagle's Nest RV Park

4 sites · Buchanan, TN

Welcome to Eagle's Nest RV Park, a hidden gem located near Paris Landing State Park and the stunning Kentucky Lake. What sets our campground apart is our commitment to providing a serene and enjoyable experience, ensuring that you feel right at home in nature. Our park features 32 spacious campsites, each equipped with concrete pads and patios, along with full-service utility hookups for your convenience. We prioritize your comfort with well-maintained grounds that boast lush grass and beautiful trees, allowing you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors without the feeling of being in a parking lot. At Eagle's Nest, we offer a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Enjoy our laundry and shower facilities, or gather with friends and family at our charming covered picnic pavilion. For those cozy evenings, numerous fire rings are available for your use. Whether you're looking to explore the nearby natural attractions, enjoy swimming, or partake in outdoor activities, Eagle's Nest RV Park is the perfect base for your adventures. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of our park, where relaxation and recreation go hand in hand.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. 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

10. Lake Barkley

19 sites · Cumberland City, Tennessee

Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

11. Paris Landing State Park

100%

(1)

73 sites · Big Sandy, Tennessee

Discover the allure of Paris Landing State Park's natural beauty.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

50 sites · Eva, Tennessee

Discover the natural splendor of Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

13. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

214 sites · Gilbertsville, Kentucky

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds in and near Kentucky Lake

Piney Campground at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

92%

(15)

Piney Campground

384 sites · Tents, RVs · in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Bumpus Mills Campground

15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Barkley

100%

(4)

Gatlin Point Campground

19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Paris Landing Campground

73 sites · Tents, RVs · in Paris Landing State Park

100%

(3)

Lake Barkley Campground

79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(2)

Hurricane Creek Campground

51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

100%

(2)

Canal Campground

114 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Eureka Campground

26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Kentucky Dam Village Campground

214 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

Nathan Bedford Forrest Campground

50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Pennyrile Forest Campground

44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

Stories from the community

S

Sarah

October 2025

8 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Burdoc Farms

I would have stayed forever if I could. So romantic, beautiful, and safe feeling for a solo female traveler.

T

Taylor

September 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Burdoc Farms

Awesome stay at the farm! Plenty of space and very private. Our dogs absolutely loved it. Thanks Sara!

Sara

September 2025

21 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Flying D Ranch

Beautiful, country setting close to restaurants & groceries. Loved the heated pool and bathroom! It also has a full size refrigerator, a grill and small microwave. Shauna and her husband were very pleasant to work with and had lots of fun stories to share. We can't wait to camp here again.

A

Amanda

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Flying D Ranch

Amazing host, super nice & informative. When we arrived & seen where we were staying at, it definitely exceeded our expectations. We love primitive camping but this place offers the best of both worlds. We will be returning, as this was our favorite place so far that we’ve stayed!

L

Lee

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Flying D Ranch

A total gem! Shuana and Ralph greeted us upon check-in and were wonderful hosts. The property was peaceful and very well-maintained. We enjoyed watching the Kiger horses and relaxing in the pool in between hikes. We felt right at home and will be back, when we travel to western KY.

L

Lauren

June 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Flying D Ranch

I camped here with my husband and two young daughters. The hosts were wonderful and very helpful. They were quick to give us a tour of the area and the specifics of the amenities offered. They periodically checked in with us during our stay to see how it was going or if we needed anything. Great people. There were canoes and two fishing poles, with lures, to use in both of their fish-filled ponds. They graciously offered us use of their fridge/freezer and some refreshments and popsicles inside. The salt water pool was everything you could want. A large 3 ft area for standing along with a deeper end for the slide and spring board. They offered several pool toys and life jackets. We were in the pool nonstop. The bathroom was clean and stocked with travel size soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and make up wipes. The pavilion kitchen was large with a microwave, toaster oven, and table top propane BBQ grill. The RV parking spot was well maintained gravel with a 50 amp hookup. Water connection if needed. We made such wonderful memories here. Waking up to the beautiful scenery and grazing horses was an absolute dream. The girls had an amazing time swimming, fishing, looking at the horses and running around the well maintained property. We will be back!