The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Lake Washington

Camp along the rivers that feed into Lake Washington and you’ll find over 670 options tailored for tent campers who want to wake up near flowing water. Prices average around $20 a night, with spots starting at $15 if you book early or choose a simpler site. River camping here means easy access to swimming, fishing, and wildlife-watching—bring your binoculars, the birdlife is serious. Most sites allow pets and campfires, and showers are common, so you can rinse off after a day in the water. For a tried-and-tested stay, check out The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews), or Brand'n Iron Hills (15 reviews). You’ll find sites set right on the riverbank—ideal for cooling off or casting a line just a few steps from your tent.

99% (248) • 48 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Washington

The Art Farm

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. :)

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$24

/ night

Lost acres

2. Lost acres

100%

(29)

14 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Ewen, TN

Learn more about this land:Acers of camping far from civilization. Primitive camping. Green fields awesome woods and a spring feed creek. find fossils.  Please camp responsibly and hike out what you hike in.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Brand'n Iron Hills

3. Brand'n Iron Hills

96%

(25)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dover, TN

40 acres Located in beautiful Dover TN 5 miles from Lake Barkley & the Cumberland River. Conveniently located a few miles from town, far enough that it is quiet, but close enough that it is not a long trip to town. The property features a variety of thriving wildlife due to our fresh water stream that gently flows through the property year round. The stream is roughly ankle to hip deep depending on the area. The water is crystal clear and safe to play in if you have little ones. Walk along the stream and discover all kinds of fish, turtles, beautiful river stones and possibly see a beaver or 2. If you have Archery equipment, you can use our Archery Range. The property is split by a 2 lane road. 7 acres to the North and 33 acres to the South. The smaller side is flat with many trails, fresh water stream and a gravel road. It features relatively junior trees and is home to a family of Whitetail Deer. The Southern side of the property features a mature hardwood forest full of giant white oak trees. Be sure to put on your hiking boots though, because there's a few Hills to climb. Three hills that form a beautiful valley in the center, with another fresh waterstream. The valley was once home to a 1700s settlement, so you may find some artifacts. (We just ask that you leave them where you find them.) Main trails are marked clearly with large reflectors for safety. With the near-by wildlife refuge you are sure to see and hear a variety of wildlife. We have large steel firepits in every campsite. So feel free to bring your own firewood! Enjoy a good book or nap while relaxing in a hammock. Swing with a loved one while over looking the fresh water stream. Walk down along the stream and collect rocks, feed the fish, or go for a dip! Currently our property is very Primative, whichever there is no electricity or plumbing. We do offer clean composting toilets & a locking gate at night for your security. **Cellular service is limited in some areas. Signal can be found by the road, or cross the road and take the trail up the 1st hill**

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$26

/ night

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

94%

(19)

403 sites · Tennessee

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

Lake Barkley State Resort Park

5. Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(3)

79 sites · Cadiz, Kentucky

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The Hole-Up at Hurricane Creek

6. The Hole-Up at Hurricane Creek

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tennessee Ridge, TN

Ten clean, peaceful acres on which to pitch a tent or hook up your RV. Take a walk through open and uncluttered, gently rolling woodlands perfect for hiking or wildlife watching. Sit by the small pond and take it all in as our chorus of frogs serenade you into the sunset. Explore the crystal clear rock and gravel-bottom little creek nearby. 50amp electrical RV pole on a large pull through driveway 15-minutes to Kentucky Lake.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$100

/ night

Stoneybrooke

7. Stoneybrooke

100%

(15)

1 site · Tent, RV · Cadiz, KY

The site is located on a land peninsula next to a small spring fed pond. Although private, surrounded by trees, it is a very convenient location on hwy 68, 3 miles East of Land Between the Lakes in Kentucky. There is a 50 amp outlet available near the gravel pad. We have a 30’ cord available. Water is available. This is a single private site. No other campers at this location. We have an antique store 125’ away that is open to the public once per month and hosts occasional creative classes. The store cannot be seen from the camp site so you will enjoy complete privacy. Also note there is a paved bike trail across the highway so easy access for bicyclists. The pond is stocked with bass and blue gill for a photo op and release. If you would like a private shopping experience at Stoneybrooke, it can be arranged!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$33

/ night

The Forest Retreat

8. The Forest Retreat

100%

(16)

20 sites · Tents, RVs · Waverly, TN

Learn more about this land:Enjoy the wonders of the Tennessee countryside, the site is located on the edge of the Tennessee River within 20 minutes of Waverly TN. A public boat ramp is a little further down Bear Creek Road (1 mile) where you can put your boats into the water and enjoy the over 250sq mile lake. The Forest Retreat is a great location to enjoy camping in a pine forest area and enjoy the wildlife that surrounds the 130+ acre area.

Pets

from

$20

/ night

Burdoc Farms

9. 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!

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

from

$35

/ night

Fort Massac State Park

10. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Lake Barkley

11. Lake Barkley

19 sites · Cumberland City, Tennessee

Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

12. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Camp along the rivers that feed into Lake Washington and you’ll find over 670 options tailored for tent campers who want to wake up near flowing water. Prices average around $20 a night, with spots starting at $15 if you book early or choose a simpler site. River camping here means easy access to swimming, fishing, and wildlife-watching—bring your binoculars, the birdlife is serious. Most sites allow pets and campfires, and showers are common, so you can rinse off after a day in the water. For a tried-and-tested stay, check out The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews), or Brand'n Iron Hills (15 reviews). You’ll find sites set right on the riverbank—ideal for cooling off or casting a line just a few steps from your tent.

99% (248) • 48 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Washington

The Art Farm

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. :)

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$24

/ night

Lost acres

2. Lost acres

100%

(29)

14 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Ewen, TN

Learn more about this land:Acers of camping far from civilization. Primitive camping. Green fields awesome woods and a spring feed creek. find fossils.  Please camp responsibly and hike out what you hike in.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Brand'n Iron Hills

3. Brand'n Iron Hills

96%

(25)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dover, TN

40 acres Located in beautiful Dover TN 5 miles from Lake Barkley & the Cumberland River. Conveniently located a few miles from town, far enough that it is quiet, but close enough that it is not a long trip to town. The property features a variety of thriving wildlife due to our fresh water stream that gently flows through the property year round. The stream is roughly ankle to hip deep depending on the area. The water is crystal clear and safe to play in if you have little ones. Walk along the stream and discover all kinds of fish, turtles, beautiful river stones and possibly see a beaver or 2. If you have Archery equipment, you can use our Archery Range. The property is split by a 2 lane road. 7 acres to the North and 33 acres to the South. The smaller side is flat with many trails, fresh water stream and a gravel road. It features relatively junior trees and is home to a family of Whitetail Deer. The Southern side of the property features a mature hardwood forest full of giant white oak trees. Be sure to put on your hiking boots though, because there's a few Hills to climb. Three hills that form a beautiful valley in the center, with another fresh waterstream. The valley was once home to a 1700s settlement, so you may find some artifacts. (We just ask that you leave them where you find them.) Main trails are marked clearly with large reflectors for safety. With the near-by wildlife refuge you are sure to see and hear a variety of wildlife. We have large steel firepits in every campsite. So feel free to bring your own firewood! Enjoy a good book or nap while relaxing in a hammock. Swing with a loved one while over looking the fresh water stream. Walk down along the stream and collect rocks, feed the fish, or go for a dip! Currently our property is very Primative, whichever there is no electricity or plumbing. We do offer clean composting toilets & a locking gate at night for your security. **Cellular service is limited in some areas. Signal can be found by the road, or cross the road and take the trail up the 1st hill**

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$26

/ night

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

94%

(19)

403 sites · Tennessee

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

Lake Barkley State Resort Park

5. Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(3)

79 sites · Cadiz, Kentucky

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The Hole-Up at Hurricane Creek

6. The Hole-Up at Hurricane Creek

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tennessee Ridge, TN

Ten clean, peaceful acres on which to pitch a tent or hook up your RV. Take a walk through open and uncluttered, gently rolling woodlands perfect for hiking or wildlife watching. Sit by the small pond and take it all in as our chorus of frogs serenade you into the sunset. Explore the crystal clear rock and gravel-bottom little creek nearby. 50amp electrical RV pole on a large pull through driveway 15-minutes to Kentucky Lake.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$100

/ night

Stoneybrooke

7. Stoneybrooke

100%

(15)

1 site · Tent, RV · Cadiz, KY

The site is located on a land peninsula next to a small spring fed pond. Although private, surrounded by trees, it is a very convenient location on hwy 68, 3 miles East of Land Between the Lakes in Kentucky. There is a 50 amp outlet available near the gravel pad. We have a 30’ cord available. Water is available. This is a single private site. No other campers at this location. We have an antique store 125’ away that is open to the public once per month and hosts occasional creative classes. The store cannot be seen from the camp site so you will enjoy complete privacy. Also note there is a paved bike trail across the highway so easy access for bicyclists. The pond is stocked with bass and blue gill for a photo op and release. If you would like a private shopping experience at Stoneybrooke, it can be arranged!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$33

/ night

The Forest Retreat

8. The Forest Retreat

100%

(16)

20 sites · Tents, RVs · Waverly, TN

Learn more about this land:Enjoy the wonders of the Tennessee countryside, the site is located on the edge of the Tennessee River within 20 minutes of Waverly TN. A public boat ramp is a little further down Bear Creek Road (1 mile) where you can put your boats into the water and enjoy the over 250sq mile lake. The Forest Retreat is a great location to enjoy camping in a pine forest area and enjoy the wildlife that surrounds the 130+ acre area.

Pets

from

$20

/ night

Burdoc Farms

9. 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!

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

from

$35

/ night

Fort Massac State Park

10. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Lake Barkley

11. Lake Barkley

19 sites · Cumberland City, Tennessee

Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

12. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Spencer

6 days ago

Tent

3 nights at Brand'n Iron Hills

Great spot to camp very peacefull and quite. Highly recommend

S

Shana

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Lost acres

We had an incredible stay at this campsite and couldn’t have asked for a better way to welcome the New Year. The host was exceptionally kind and welcoming, greeting us upon arrival and making sure we had everything we needed. We were able to purchase firewood directly from him, which made settling in easy and seamless. The site itself was the best primitive setup we could have dreamed of — thoughtfully arranged with a fire ring, and we were provided with a trash can, and a honey bucket. Everything was clean, well-organized, and clearly cared for, which made the experience feel both rustic and comfortable. Spending New Year’s here with my partner was truly special. The site was incredibly peaceful, surrounded by quiet beauty, and the nearly full moon and stars made the night feel almost magical. It was the perfect place to unplug, reflect, and simply be present. We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a serene, well-hosted primitive camping experience.

C

Charlie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Brand'n Iron Hills

Absolutely beautiful property and perfectly peaceful. The sites were very spacious. The ground is pretty much all creek bed and rock so wear sturdy shoes and plan to bring your own toilet solution. There’s a camp toilet sitting over a pit but it’s not what most are used to or prefer. 10/10 would recommend and will be booking several more times.

M

Matt

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Stoneybrooke

It was great spot. You can hear some road noise but felt secluded. Pod was nice to look at. Electrical is pretty far away from the pad. 100ish feet. They provided a 30A extension cord for us. Not a problem as we have a 30A rig but if you need 50A bring an extension.

Tabitha

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Stoneybrooke

The entrance is off of Sam Downs Rd. Was a very quiet and secluded spot. The parking spot is fairly level and a decent amount of space. Right next to the highway, which we enjoyed hearing. Is also right next to their shop, but it wasn't busy last night. The electric box was wired for 50 amps, but the extension cords provided were 30 amps. The electrical box was about 100 feet from the spot. Water is available, the on/off is at the store. Very friendly host that came and met us when we arrived. Would definitely stay here again!

Katie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Brand'n Iron Hills

Remote, quiet and creekside, exactly as advertised. Loved it.

S

Savannah

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Lost acres

Loved Lost Acres so much! Vinnie gave us a great tour of his favorite places on the property, and he was so, so accommodating and helpful. The property is super nice and private, but it's also very close to a Dollar General in case you forget something. Will definitely be keeping this site on our camping rotation!

W

William

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lost acres

I loved it. Very nice host and very clear and dark night sky

T

Tim

October 2025

33 ft fifth wheel

9 nights at Stoneybrooke

Had a great time. Good location to be able to get attractions. Nice small pond with alot of fish.

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!

M

Myrodin

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lost acres

3rd time staying here, tons of wildlife and they have upgraded their fire rings since I was last there.

C

Caleb

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Brand'n Iron Hills

Great place! Great communication. Thanks Robert!

F

Faith

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stoneybrooke

Hosts were friendly and very helpful! Great spot with level ground and relaxing atmosphere. In August and we didn’t experience any mosquitos in the area - right beside the cute little pond! Pet friendly. Very easy experience all around.

D

Dee

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stoneybrooke

Great site, very convenient but still private and secluded. Nicely maintained site, very friendly host. It’s pull in / back out, so not good for a tow-behind. Perfect for my 25’ Class C.

J

John

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Stoneybrooke

Great hosts, helped with a dogbone we thought we had but didn’t. Easy access and responsive hosts.

D

Donna

July 2025

2 nights at Stoneybrooke

We enjoyed the peace and quiet during the Holiday weekend. Stoneybrook is a great escape all to yourself with electric hookup and access to water. We did have to use an extension to the electric but was prepared so it wasn't an issue. Our pups were thankful for escaping the fireworks this year.

B

Benjamine

June 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Lost acres

Easy to find, host was friendly and helpful, tons of space. Just reach out to make sure the hay has been cut and you'll have all the room in the world to camp.

C

Cindy

June 2025

27 ft Class C

3 nights at Stoneybrooke

Our site was beautiful and private! Our host met us on arrival and showed us where everything was. The spot is level on nice solid gravel. We will stay here again when we return.

D

Daniel

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Brand'n Iron Hills

Beautiful piece of land. We had the whole place to ourselves. Stream was relaxing to hear throughout the night, mosquitoes sucked but it was bearable with a candle repellent. Walked along the stream for about a half mile and started seeing some crazy stuff, we didn’t realize we were off property. So be mindful of that. There is about 30 acres across the stream that you can explore. Poop but was riddle with spiders, but again nothing we couldn’t handle. Felt very safe as well.