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Barren River Lake

The best camping in Barren River Lake, KY

72% (9)

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Stories from the community

Drew

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Beardsnest

Enjoyed my time on Kevin’s land again. Always a great spot to camp and explore.

Megan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Chatty Heifer Farm

My partner and I made a last minute decision to go camping when our schedules changed. Patti was extremely friendly and communicative immediately when we made our reservation. I really enjoyed hearing from her. The campsite is not very far from Nashville and was a perfect getaway. The campsite has three guard dogs that are SUPER sweet. They were very playful with our 1 and 1/2 year old German Shepherd (who still thinks he’s, like, a 6 month old). We also felt very happy that these dogs were guarding us during the night. The road is somewhat close to the campsite but it didn’t have heavy traffic. This site was perfect for the three of us looking at a short, impromptu night away from home! The creek and birds were lovely to wake up to and we came home the next day cheerful and relaxed. We were at Site 2, but Site 3 also seemed great for a larger group.

Wes

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Chatty Heifer Farm

We thoroughly enjoyed our night camping at site #3! Our 3 crazy kids had a blast exploring the creek & running around the large field, while our dog enjoyed making friends with several of the sweet farm dogs. Patti was an excellent host & did a wonderful job communicating all of the information related to our stay. We look forward to returning in the future!

Julie

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Caney Fork Hunter Fisher Paradise

Loved staying at the A-Frame! Bring your rechargeable or don’t! This was the perfect base camp for my weekend of hiking. I will definitely book again when in the area.

Troy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Waterloo Falls

Alice was excellent. Very kind and accommodating. She responds very quickly and insures you have no questions regarding your stay. Once we arrived she was quick to meet us and give us the info we needed on our site. The stay was amazing, absolutely beautiful. I’m sure we will return

Sydney

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beardsnest

So enjoyed the night away on Kevin’s peaceful property. Site was well kept and safe!

Erica

2 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

What an amazing peaceful place. The goats cracked me up. Would definitely recommend. Was a perfect recharge for the soul and body. Thank you.

Josh

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Cascades at Waterloo

Great spot near the river near the waterfall. Being the off season we had the entire site to ourselves. Alice was quick to answer questions and provide details for parking and such.

Victoria

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Misty Bottoms

We felt very welcomed, it's a beautiful and secluded property with a beautiful creek for canoeing or kayaking. We had clouds but i expect the stargazing would be spectacular. Lots of songbirds and deer, beautiful fall color. Perfect temporary home for hunters, we met a few, fascinating for us city people. Bathroom and shower clean and warm. There is a large sheltered area with chairs and grills in case of inclement weather. We didn't meet the donkeys but could see them across the field. Recommended!

Ben

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Tent camping here was a breeze. It felt very secluded despite only being 15 minutes or so from Nashville. We did hear some faint traffic nearby but not a peep during the night hours. There were some people hunting way far off in the distant and we heard some rifles go off a few times during the day, but we didn't feel unsafe by any means during our stay. The site was beautiful, fully surrounded by trees at the top of the hill--exactly what I was hoping for. Speaking of hills, there is a pretty steep hill to get up, yes--but with 4WD it wasn't really an issue for me at all. The sites are first come first serve and there was only my fiance and myself plus one other family that showed up several hours later. They were far enough away that we could barely see them. There's potable water and a toilet a decent walk from the site, but we didn't use either so I can't speak to those. Our interaction with the host was very minimal since it's self check-in and check out, but we didn't need anything other than the directions that were provided (which were very easy to follow). Overall I'd highly recommend this site if you're looking for some seclusion but don't want to drive hours away from the convenience Nashville area.

Spencer

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to On the back of the farm

My wife, dog, and I loved this campsite. There was a lot of space and 2 campsites to choose from. Our dog did not have to be on leash and got to explore the area as well. Aaron answered any question we had in a timely manner and gave us some insight on the land before we arrived. We will be keeping this spot in mind for future camping trips.

Zach

3 weeks ago

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Noble Pine Campground

This was a great spot for our camper for a couple nights! Easy to get in and out of, restroom/showers were clean, and free firewood is a nice amenity. The host was available but not overbearing, and communication was quick and clear. We would definitely return.

Carlos

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Cascades at Waterloo

Stayed one night in the dry camping area. Easy place to get to. Wonderful sounds of owls hooting and coyotes howling through the night. Bring about 3-4 inch of leveling blocks since the ground is has a slope to it. Ground is more level towards the street but gets steeper as you get closer to the trees.

Ashley

November 2025

40 ft travel trailer

1 night at Western Valley View

Beautiful stopover on our cross-country road trip! Easy to access with our 29’ travel trailer, and it was completely level :) hookups were easy access and hosts were friendly.

Millicent

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterloo Falls

I loved getting to go flaming for my first time ever here! It was absolutely gorgeous! Had a wonderful time getting out into nature and unwinding with my family.

Christina

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at The Bee Happy Campground

As beekeepers we were excited to find Bee Springs Kentucky and Bee Happy Campground. Roomy camping sites though our camper is only 16 feet there were bigger ones there with plenty of room. It was clean and quiet and Christie is very responsive. The clear night sky made for some great stargazing and pictures on top of the hill.

Elijah

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cascades at Waterloo

Very nice site easy to access. There’s a gas station near by and it’s less than 20 minutes from Cookeville or Livingston. There’s also a Dollar General up the road. Great campsite for spur of the moment

David

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at On the back of the farm

The views of the lake are gorgeous. The directions are easy. I enjoyed learning about his land and Lake River Barren.

Fiona

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Beardsnest

This is a great spot for a stop! Location is perfect for Mammoth Caves. The grass in the lawn was great for kids running around, Aswell as all the trails cut out around the property to explore. Kevin was responsive and friendly. Would stay here again!

Artie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Great place for a quick camping getaway in the Nashville area. Once you’re out there it feels as though you are much farther out than you are. Hassle free, good communication from the host. Highly recommend!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Barren River Lake

93%

(7)

Bailey's Point Campground

5.4mi from Barren River Lake · 203 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barren River Lake

The Narrows Campground

5.7mi from Barren River Lake · 89 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barren River Lake

Tailwater Campground

7mi from Barren River Lake · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barren River Lake

Beaver Creek Campground

7.2mi from Barren River Lake · 12 sites · in Barren River Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Camp Nashville Highland Rim

95%

(347)

46mi from Barren River Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Goodlettsville, TN

Primitive camping near Nashville on a secluded hilltop nestled in a hardwood forest. Flat areas for tents, car / van camping, and trees for hammocks. Plan to carry your trash out with you. Do not leave trash on property. Please read all details / rules, and share with family or group. Drive to camping location. First arrive / first choice of favorite of available spaces upon arrival. Spaces are not numbered or pre-assigned. Camping guests supply camping gear. No gear rental available. Amenities: 2 community water hydrants, community vault toilet, fire pit at each site. Outdoor hot water heater for shower Apr-Oct, after forecasted freezing temperatures. Kid friendly. No extra charge for children. (verify not charged for children if selected.) Camping location north of downtown Nashville on a ridge at a higher elevation overlooking Nashville. Camp away from noisy highways, convenient to I65 near multiple amenities, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops . 5 miles from three I65 exits. 14 miles from I24. 18 miles from I40. 18 miles from Nashville downtown riverfront. Uber or Lyft to Nashville available. Check in & out times are flexible. Quiet hours after 10PM. If you're hanging out or arriving after 10PM.... keep it quiet for other guests. Pets permitted under owner supervision. Clean up after pets, and do not allow pets to interfere with other guests. Please be sure all guests know camping rules! Do Not Leave Trash!! Trash policy is carry in / carry out with you for disposal somewhere else. Trash service is not provided as part of camping fees. $50 trash disposal will be requested if trash left on property. Vault toilet works on a septic system and is not pumped. Only place toilet paper in toilet. Wipes, feminine products, excess tp should be placed in trash can outside vault toilet (only trash exception). Do not burn noncombustible items. materials or cigarettes in fire pits or leave trash in firepits. Only firewood or ashes should remain in firepit. Do not use knives, hatches, axes, saws on live trees. This will be considered damaging to property.

Beardsnest

100%

(149)

21mi from Barren River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Cave City, KY

This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2025, camping here provides a glimpse into the fourth year of succession. This current phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie contrasted with the rocky and steep slopes of the mature forest. Most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, but still want to get out to the park quickly (~7 miles to the Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for coffee/ice-cream/pizza/barbecue/bar/food/etc. Expand from the campsite into a sketch-work of trails, as if camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve. All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking. Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~525 seedlings as of March 2025), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. If you have only 2 days, a nice way to experience Mammoth Cave NP is to break the trip into 3 layers, covering the underworld (cave tours), upper world (hiking), and the water that connects the two (Green River kayaking). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space of imagining what is beneath the surface, how these worlds are connected, while navigating park land and water. Note that we offer kayak trips that can be tailored to your schedule and travel constraints. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. Kayaks are hosted on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park. Pending availability, we offer tent setups as well to folks who want to camp but aren't traveling with gear (REI 4 person Half Dome). Tent setup comes with two sleeping pads (you will need pillows, blankets, etc.).

Waterloo Falls

100%

(134)

48mi from Barren River Lake · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Cookeville, TN

The Property: Located north of Cookeville in the rolling hills and farmland, our property is on Spring Creek, a state scenic river. Situated between two waterfalls and featuring over half a mile of river frontage to explore. Float, fish and relax listening to the cascading water. Perfect for bird watchers- blue and green herons, ospreys, hawks, bald eagles and more. You may spot the creek critters- minks, beavers, and otters. Various types of bass, craw dad's and minnows are in the creek. We operate similar to a state park. We are open to the public from 10am-7pm, peak season. We have other listings that are spaced so each of our guests has privacy. Please see aerial photo for an overview. We sometimes have small events (birthday parties, ect) at the pavilion. Please feel free to message us first, if you would like to see if there are any events during your stay. There are 2 restrooms centrally located at the pavilion. One bathroom has a shower with hot water, soap, shampoo/conditioner included. The restrooms are shared with our other listings. There are USB and regular outlets in the pavilion and WiFi. During warm season the outdoor kitchen is available as well. We also rent out a Suite which is located above the pavilion. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and picked up after. Please note there is a gun range 2 hollers away and depending on the season, it can be heard from our property. Tent in the Trees Listing: Your tent site is built above the trail and overlooking the creek. The tent is equipped with a queen bed, linens, extra blankets & essential cooking gear. There is a fire pit with grill and griddles for cooking over wood or charcoal. Really, all you need is clothes, food and drink! Primitive Camp Site: The rustic camp site is DIY. It is 300' from pavilion, and 600' from Tent in the Trees. We provide a picnic table and fire pit You bring all the rest of your gear. Typically, you may park next to your campsite. No RV's, converted vans are permitted. If you have a very small camper, please message us to see if we can accommodate. There are no hookups, and no loud generators allowed. Bundles of wood available $10. Escape in nature and sleep soundly to the sounds of the creek!

Runaway Adventures LLC

3.6mi from Barren River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fountain Run, KY

Runaway Adventures LLC – Rustic Nature Camping Near Barren River Lake Looking to unplug and reconnect with nature? Runaway Adventures LLC offers a back-to-basics camping experience on peaceful, undeveloped land just 2 miles from beautiful Barren River Lake. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking your camper or trailer, or staying in one of our simple cabins, you’ll find the freedom to truly escape. This is true rough camping — no frills, just fresh air, open skies, and the sounds of nature. Explore and hike the surrounding woods, stargaze by your campfire, or take a short drive to enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming at the lake. Our sites are ready for relaxation and perfect for adventurers who appreciate the wild side of Kentucky. Come ready for an off-grid experience!

Chatty Heifer Farm

98%

(199)

30mi from Barren River Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Dixon Springs, TN

The family we bought the farm from owned and farmed it since 1900. They built a cabin then and built a house around the cabin in 1920. We bought it in 2018 and have been renovating it to build a retreat center for first responders and others who serve unselfishly. To that end, we've cut hiking trails and campsites as well as filling the farm with livestock to help people slow down and de-stress. We're located in the beautiful green hills about an hour east of Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about this land:Drift off to sleep with the sounds of a year-round creek just outside your campsite. Wake up to a beautiful meadow surrounded by green hills in rural Tennessee. Campsites are located on a 120 year old farm under restoration, which is family owned and operated. Get some time away. You'll have privacy as you explore the farm: wade the creek, sway on the tire swing, visit the farm animals (goats, cows, pigs, and chickens), pick wild berries, and sample farm fresh produce and eggs when available. Hiking trails are also available on the farm through tranquil woods.Property is easily accessible from Nashville. In addition, day trips are possible to several lakes, rivers, waterfalls, historic sites, civil war battlefields, state parks, and national wildlife areas.

Noble Pine Campground

100%

(51)

31mi from Barren River Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mammoth Cave, KY

We provide a farm experience in a small campground with 2 full bathrooms with hot showers, 10 rv/tent sites, 2 glamping bell tents, 1 glamping aframe, and 3 bedroom 1 bath cabin. Horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes a friendly camp cat are happy to engage with guests. Guests will have access to yard games such as corn hole, giant jenga, croquet, bocce ball, steer lassoing and more. Camp is located on the north side of Mammoth Cave National Park. There is Wi-Fi available on premises.

Cascades at Waterloo

100%

(28)

48mi from Barren River Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Dodson Branch, TN

Camping Enthusiasts—Your Adventure Awaits on Spring Creek! Welcome to your perfect nature escape—over a mile of stunning Spring Creek frontage with soaring limestone cliffs, shaded woodlands, and peaceful creekside camping spots. Whether you’re an avid angler, wildlife watcher, or someone who simply enjoys the sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves, this hidden gem offers a truly immersive back-to-nature experience. The Campsites Our primitive campsites are 'choose your own special spot', offering both wooded seclusion and sunny creekside views. Ideal for experienced backpacking campers, sites are walk in (no more than 1 mile). We encourage Leave No Trace principles—pack in, pack out, and respect the land. Creekside Activities Spend your days cooling off in natural swimming holes, floating peacefully down the creek, or casting a line for smallmouth and red eye bass. The area is teeming with wildlife—you may spot otters, mink, deer, and a variety of bird species from songbirds to eagles. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, adding a splash of color to your hikes. Nearby Attractions Just a short walk down the creek from your campsite, you'll find Waterloo Falls—a beautiful natural area featuring two scenic waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and event center. Guests are welcome to enjoy the area by adding a day-use fee to your reservation (details provided upon booking). Please note that Waterloo Falls occasionally closes for private events, so we recommend checking availability with us in advance if you'd like to include it in your adventure! Just 1 mile from the property is the Bend of the River Gun Range—perfect for shooting enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills. For more conventional needs, Cookeville Center is a short 20-minute drive away, offering grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops. You’ll be close enough for convenience, yet far enough to fully unplug and relax. Important Notes This is a primitive camping experience. No electricity, plumbing, or RV hookups. You must bring your own water, camp stove, and waste disposal supplies. This property is best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable with rugged, natural terrain. Come for the solitude. Stay for the soul-filling connection to nature.

Dog Gone Camping

100%

(6)

44mi from Barren River Lake · 1 site · RV · Springfield, TN

Peaceful Country Stay with Camper Pad, Patio & Local Goods Welcome to our peaceful one-acre retreat just off Hwy 65! An inviting, traveler-friendly spot with country charm and city access. We’re in a small, quiet community just 3.3 miles from Love’s Travel Stop (with septic dump station), and only 35 minutes from downtown Nashville. RV Accommodations Our level camper pad is perfect for short stays (longer visits upon request). Optional Hookups & Add-Ons • Filtered & softened water – $10/stay • 15-Amp electric hookup – $10/night (no A/C or heavy appliances) • 30-Amp generator w/fuel & setup – $40/night Fireside Comforts • Solo Stove rental – $20/stay • Firewood bundles – $6 • Lawn games available! Pet & Family Friendly Kids and pets are welcome! Enjoy open green space with picnic area and a fenced dog run for safe, off-leash fun. Relaxation & Local Flavor Relax on the shaded patio or browse homemade goods from our small businesses: 🐾 Dog Gone Cookies – All-natural dog treats 🍓 Cookie Small Batch – Jams, jellies, seasonings & more Important Info By booking, you agree to use the property at your own risk. This is a natural setting where storms, falling limbs, uneven ground, or wildlife may occur. We’re not responsible for injuries or damage caused by weather, trees, pets, or personal equipment. Please carry your own insurance for RVs and belongings. Fires must be in designated areas and attended at all times. Be respectful of others, clean up after pets, and leave the space as you found it. We’re here if you need anything—thank you for staying with us!

The Bee Happy Campground

100%

(41)

36mi from Barren River Lake · 11 sites · RVs · Brownsville, KY

Small, private campground. 12 RV sites. Located on Jock Rd on a hill in Bee Spring, KY with acres of open space just minutes from Moutardier and Nolin Lake/Dam. 4 sites offer full hook up. These sites are rented monthly but if not occupied are available for nightly rental at $40 a night. Contact me directly (text is best) to book. (270) 799-4648 8 sites have water and electric (no sewer hookup at site). Dump station on property. All sites offer electric 30/50 amp; 110v, gravel sites, picnic table, and fire pit with food grate. Contact me directly at (270) 799-4648 for weekly, monthly, yearly rates/reservations. TEXT IS BEST. Pets are welcome (must be kept on leash and you MUST clean up their waste) Dump station Playground (swings, slide, climbing dome) No bathhouse at the moment. Port A Pot on site. Nearby: Moutardier, Nolin Lake/Dam, Wax, Blue Holler, Leitchfield , Brownsville. Less than 30 miles: Mammoth Cave National Park, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown.

On the back of the farm

98%

(164)

8mi from Barren River Lake · 2 sites · Tents · Glasgow, KY

This farm has been in my family for 3 generations, the Road is named after my great grandparents. Sitting right on Barren River Lake we are at the end of a dead end chip sealed road. Come join us for a few nights and share in the little piece of suclusion that we call home. We look forward to seeing you. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the back of our 60 acre farm and stay completely secluded from people. You will drive 2 miles down a chip sealed road and then almost a mile down a dirt road past where the public road ends. Stay as connected or as disconnected as you want. Our farm offers the perfect escape from the day to day race of life. If you want to get away come spend a few days with us!!! We only allow booking of one camp site at time to ensure your privacy. Upon arrival there are 2 sites to pick from(see map in photos section). Camp firewood available for purchase at the barn on your way in. Signs are in place to take you to camp sites from the address that you will receive upon booking. Can't wait for you to come spend a couple nights with us! We encourage our guests to check out the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife page and the Barren River Lake Corp of Engineers page to know the local boating and fishing rules for Barren River lake during your visit

Western Valley View

99%

(77)

42mi from Barren River Lake · 3 sites · RVs · Lebanon, TN

Learn more about this land:Our property sits along a ridge with a westerly view creating amazing sunsets. Short drive to historic Gallatin square, Old hickory lake / marina. Downtown Nashville 40 min drive.Please contact me before booking. Night time arrivals are discouraged, road / drive are curvy and hilly.Site 1 - top of hill near garage 30amp and waterSite 2 - rear of property no hookupsSite 3 - Rear of property 50amp and waterAll site are level and concrete

Riney Farm

100%

(10)

26mi from Barren River Lake · 1 site · RV · Franklin, KY

Our full hook up campsite is on a working, 17 acre farm. We have horses, chickens, peacocks, guineas and goats, so we ask that all dogs are kept on a leash. We are near Drakes Creek, which is great for fishing and kayaking. Kenny Perry Golf Course is minutes away. We are north of Nashville, TN and South of Bowling Green, KY. We have farm fresh eggs and firewood for sale, if needed.

The best camping in Barren River Lake, KY guide

Overview

About

Once you've gotten your spelunking at Mammoth Cave National Park out of the way, find your lodgings at Barren Lake State Park, where tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course make for an especially plush place to stay. Lay out your towel and chill at the beach or take advantage of the abundant fishing opportunities. A marina complete with jet ski rentals means you can cruise the water in style. Whether you're interested in hiking the wooded trails, playing a game of shuffleboard, or putting your feet up at your rental cottage, you'll find the only thing this place doesn't offer is a permanent place to reside.

72%

9 ratings · 3 reviews

Recommends

· October 2025

Beautiful lake views.

Tent ·

Bailey's Point Campground

A beautiful view and above average clean campsite. Shower houses might have been a little cleaner and could use some updating, but still above average of other camps I have visited. I will not return to site B-50 as I was tent camping and there was not a good spot to set up. Would be okay for a pull through camper spot, except no electricity.

Bj J.

2 months on Hipcamp

October 2021

Bailey's Point Campground

This park is beautiful. The views are breathtaking. I stayed there for a couple of months. Not a good place to be if there is government shutdown, which I did. You have to leave!

Teresa C.

4 years on Hipcamp

March 2020

Tailwater Campground

Quite a treat to harvest a walleye or two right out the door of your campsite. Quiet, serene & scenic.