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Barkley Lake

The best camping in Barkley Lake, KY

100% (4)

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Stories from the community

Brie

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Art Farm

We had a nice time at Laura’s. Kindly showed us where everything was, was very respectful and we felt very safe there. The cats were adorable too!

Sheldon

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

1 night at The Art Farm

Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

Even if you stay just one night to break up travel (as I did), I highly recommend the Art Farm. The spaciousness of the camp was a delight. I arrived at the property around 9 pm, and Laura graciously showed me a secluded site towards the back of the tract. The nearest camper was far away, and though it was mid-November when I stayed, I could still envision seclusion in a busier season. The land was well-maintained, and Laura offers a variety of camping spots. Paducah was also well worth seeing- a lovely town right along the Ohio River with several cool spots! I’ll be back!

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.

Charlie

3 weeks ago

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.

Jeff

3 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Grand Chain Vineyards

Great place to stay. Nice view. Staff were very friendly.

Beautiful RV site in rolling Western Kentucky farm country. Close to all amenities, Paducah and I-24. Both 30 amp and 110 outlets, water spigot, hot tub and outdoor shower.

Elizabeth

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Art Farm

I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!

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!

Glamping Tent Platform (seen here without tent) tucked into the edge of the Meditation Woods. Privacy. Serenity. Peace.

Samantha

October 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Art Farm

This was a perfect primitive camp for us! The area had plenty of privacy with a beautiful scenery. Early mornings, next to the woods gave a good spot to drink some coffee and watch the wildlife. Easily accessible, and not far from town if you needed to make a quick trip. Communication with Laura was friendly, quick and easy. Definitely saving this spot for our next trip in the area:)

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!

Hayley

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Beautiful, private campsite that is right next to the national forest. We had a wonderful night here!

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!!

Beverely

October 2025

40 ft Class A

With pets

1 night at Pine Ridge Farm

Beautiful piece of property extremely quiet at night which I appreciated host was there to greet us! We drive a class a 40 foot motorhome plenty of space to park and set up. We’ll come back again..

Lorie

October 2025

1 night at The Art Farm

Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days. Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.

Tim

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Amazing location and hospitality! Great hosts and feels like you have the National Forest and all its wonder to yourselves.

Michael

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Art Farm

Loved staying here! I spent a total of four days in the woods and it was the perfect spot to stay in the evening. I especially loved that the tent area was shaded while the camping pit was just a few feet away under the open sky. I didn’t have a hammock with me, but wished that I did because there were so many great spots to hang it. Having the shower was a blessing as well. It was great to be able to start the morning with a hot rinse.

Katie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Brand'n Iron Hills

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

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Barkley Lake

100%

(2)

Canal Campground

0.7mi from Barkley Lake · 114 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

100%

(2)

Hurricane Creek Campground

14mi from Barkley Lake · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Eureka Campground

2.8mi from Barkley Lake · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barkley Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Stoneybrooke

100%

(15)

21mi from Barkley Lake · 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!

Flying D Ranch

100%

(12)

29mi from Barkley Lake · 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.

The Art Farm

98%

(201)

31mi from Barkley Lake · 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. :)

Burdoc Farms

96%

(14)

39mi from Barkley Lake · 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!

Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

44mi from Barkley Lake · 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.

Grand Chain Vineyards

91%

(16)

45mi from Barkley Lake · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · New Grand Chain, IL

The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.

Brand'n Iron Hills

96%

(24)

45mi from Barkley Lake · 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**

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

46mi from Barkley Lake · 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.

Whiskey Meadows

100%

(2)

5.5mi from Barkley Lake · 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.

Studlee's RV Park

9.9mi from Barkley Lake · 10 sites · RVs · Benton, KY

Clean and quiet RV park with 24/7 security monitoring and full-service hookups (including WiFi) on spacious, level pads. Located minutes from Kentucky Lake and Dam, Lake Barkley, Land Between the Lakes and many other parks, boat ramps and marinas, as well as many dining establishments. If you enjoy fishing, hiking or hunting, then this is the park for you and your family.

Tanglewood Campground & RV Resort

100%

(5)

15mi from Barkley Lake · 3 sites · Lodging · Hardin, KY

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Quiet place near Kentucky lake to relax and enjoy the outdoor experience. A comfortable and modern camper is the perfect place to stay while exploring The Land Between the Lakes or enjoying Kentucky lake. The camper is available year-round. In the summer you can spend time at the swimming pool or take a walk on our trail that leads to beautiful Kentucky lake with breathtaking views! Our camper is in a small and quiet campground, where you can relax and unwind. You will be surrounded by many kinds of trees, shrubs, flowers and wildlife. Every morning you will wake up listening to birds sing and evenings are frog symphony time. You may also have an unexpected visitor - a squirrel likes to have her favorite breakfast (pig nuts) on the porch. The camper has a comfortable queen bed in the master bedroom, living room with sofa bed and dining table, full kitchen, bathroom and two double bunk beds. You may spend most of your time on the large porch which is attached to the camper. It has a dining and coffee table with chairs. Most of the time, the camper is decorated with seasonal plants. We offer firewood, ice and country fresh eggs for additional charge. Close to where the camper is located, you can find a picnic area and pavilion with a propane grill, fire ring and plenty of firewood. The swimming pool is open on sunny days from Memorial weekend until Labor Day. Fisherman can find a fish cleaning station and beautiful pond with a lot of fish and turtles. Camper is not even 3/4 mile from the lake. Restaurants, a gas station, Dollar general, Old Country store with delicious ice cream, coffee, homemade jars of jams and more are within one mile driving distance. The Land Between the Lakes offers an Elk and Bison Prairie, many hiking and biking trails, fishing, boat ramps, Turkey Bay off road vehicle trails and more. Enjoy the outdoors, relax and recharge. Take a break from technology, we currently don't offer TV or Wi-Fi. Games are available per request, no additional charge. You can also rent a stand-up paddle board or bring a boat, golf cart or ATV - we have plenty of parking spaces. Be aware of insects and ticks. Please give as a call or text if any assistance is needed during your stay

Nine Pines Retreats

100%

(1)

24mi from Barkley Lake · 10 sites · Lodging · Cadiz, KY

100 acre luxury glamping retreat. 8 safari tents, with full bathroom and kitchenette in each tent. (Queen bed) 2 large geo domes that sleep up to 6. (King bed and 2 fulls) Fully air conditioned and heated. Private back decks. Hiking trails, barrel saunas, kayaks, 5 minutes from Lake Barkley., campfires and s’mores and every amenity you could think of in each unit.

The best camping in Barkley Lake, KY guide

Overview

About

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.

100%

4 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent ·

Canal Campground

Beautiful campground on the water. Our site (75) was at the end of the row, high above a bluff. It was beautiful but the wind was super strong. You can buy firewood at the entrance.

Brigitte T.

21 reviews

Recommends

· July 2020

Hurricane Creek Campground

This is our family's favorite local campground. Ive been camping here since I was a kid and its still the same! The beach is sandy and clean. Spots are all very clean. Bathhouse is clean and within close walking distance to majority of the sites. Some sites are on an incline but our county is very hilly and it is expected near the lakes area. The tent sites are right next to the beach but you have to walk through rv sites to get to them so its a little awkward.