The best camping in Lake Barkley, TN

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75% (2)

Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.  

Camper favorites near Lake Barkley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Brand'n Iron Hills

96%
(24)
13mi from Lake Barkley · 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
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from 
$26
 / night

Run-A-Muck on the Red River

94%
(57)
29mi from Lake Barkley · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Adams, TN
As a child I grew up on the river, canoeing down Red River and even playing on this very piece of property. Thirteen years ago my best friend and I started a canoe and kayak company to allow people to experience the same things that we experienced as children. We have met thousands of people and had opportunities to become friends with many of them. We look forward to seeing them every year. Six years ago we were able to purchase this piece of property for the kayak company and watch it grow into more than we ever thought it would be. It's almost surreal owning a piece of property that you played on as a kid. We are very thankful to have it and share it with others, and hope that they'll have some of the same experiences that we have had on it. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or hammock (where available) next to the Red River, across the river from Port Royal State Park and adjacent to the historic Trail of Tears. You can camp along the river or out in the open. Seven minutes from the interstate (exit 8 or 11 on I-24). You can fish or swim in the river, try local restaurants in Clarksville, or just hang out and enjoy being outside. If you want to make a reservation to go kayaking, visit the website Runamuckoutfitters.com Also on site is a food truck called "The Dairy Dog", open April-September, where you can enjoy craft hotdogs, tater tots, pub chips, milkshakes, and beer. They are open Friday 4-8 Saturday 11-8 Sunday 11-8.
Pets
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from 
$25
 / night

The Bluffs At Tumbling Creek

100%
(123)
32mi from Lake Barkley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hurricane Mills, TN
Welcome to Tumbling Creek Bluffs Private Campground! Nestled in the serene landscape of Tennessee, our campground offers a complete RV hookup with water, electricity, and sewage facilities. Set against the backdrop of the majestic bluffs of Tumbling Creek, guests can indulge in fishing, swimming, and leisurely moments by the water's edge at our secluded campground. Our covered deck provides an ideal spot for family meals, and with campfires under the stars, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Tumbling Creek Bluffs Campground invites you to savor the best of nature and relaxation in one unforgettable setting, all while enjoying complete privacy. While in the area, guests can explore the nearby historic ranch of Loretta Lynn, offering tours of Loretta Lynn's Plantation Home, visits to the museum, and much more. Discover the charm of Tumbling Creek Bluffs and create lasting memories in the heart of nature. Firewood is available for purchase on site. If you wanting to have to RVs/Camper trailers, there is an additional fee which can be added through extras on the Hipcamp Website when booking.
Pets
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from 
$75
 / night

Fox Field Farms Creekside Camping

100%
(91)
34mi from Lake Barkley · 2 sites · Tents · Nunnelly, TN
Tent camp alongside the creek under a canopy of trees and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the water. Pitch your tent on the 10x10 raised tent site or nestle it among the trees. Explore the trails, cool off in the creek (yes, we have a couple of swimming holes), fish or just sit by the fire and relax. Watch for the eagles, blue heron, beavers and even the occasional sly fox. You may even hear the call of the whippoorwills in the evening. For those wanting to kayak or canoe, the Piney River is an easy commute of 20 minutes away. Bring your bikes for some of the best gravel rides in Hickman County! ***Amenities: Picnic tables and benches. We provide firewood and a composting toilet. ***A higher clearance vehicle is needed to traverse the steep gravel driveway. This is a walk-in site only due to creek crossings and narrow paths, vehicles are parked approximately 75 yards from campsite. We are happy to help haul your gear to the campsite. ***Check-in between 2pm and 6pm unless other arrangements are approved
Potable water
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from 
$49
 / night

Creature Camp

100%
(90)
36mi from Lake Barkley · 1 site · Lodging · Ashland City, TN
** For photo/video shoots, please inquire to book on the site AVVAY. Not here. Thanks!! Sleep amongst a variety of wild and weird creature sculptures in a campsite like no other. A secluded hilltop property on 5 acres of trees, an easy 20 minute drive to Nashville. We have great sunsets up here on the hill, a peaceful little dead-end road. The campsite is at corner of our property, tucked just out of sight of our house a couple hundred feet away. You can even get a painted wood cutout version of your favorite creatures from Brett! (see extras and message us for availability) Stay in our camper, a 1963 Shasta, remodeled by us. We removed all of the old broken camper stuff and it is now a simple, colorful room inside, with a full size bed and some fun funky art from our collection. Enjoy an old VHS movie on the little tv, or some classic cassettes in the tape recorder.
Pets
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from 
$128
 / night

The best camping in Lake Barkley, TN guide

Overview

About

1,004 miles of pristine shoreline...in Tennessee?? At Lake Barkley, you can enjoy everything this massive stretch of water has to offer! As swimming is the most popular water activity, Lake Barkley provides several designated spots to jump on in. Boaters and floaters are welcome too, as this 57,900-acre lake has enough room for everyone! Bring your pole if you dare, Lake Barley is the perfect place to catch your dinner. But if lounging around at the beach is more your style, it's got ya covered. You can meet up with the water-lovers in your group later on ‘round the campfire! Have fun this summer at Lake Barkley!

Notable campgrounds

  • Bumpus Mills Campground: Open from May 5 to September 5, offering water and electric hookups amid lush greenery.
  • Canal Campground: Features 110 campsites with full hookups, a playground, and a swim beach, open from March 31 to October 30.
  • Hurricane Creek Campground: Available from April 28 to October 30, providing 51 sites with water and electric, plus a beach and laundry facilities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early through the National Recreation Reservation Service to secure your spot at Lake Barkley's popular campgrounds.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The prime time to visit Lake Barkley is between late spring and early fall, when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Summer offers the full array of activities, but be prepared for larger crowds. Winters can be cold, with limited services and some campgrounds closed.

Know before you go

  • Always wear a life jacket when boating and be aware of unmarked hazards on the lake.
  • Check the Lake Barkley Facebook page for up-to-date fishing information and water conditions.
  • Remember to purchase the appropriate fishing and hunting licenses for Kentucky or Tennessee.
  • Be mindful of the new firewood policy to prevent the spread of forest insects and diseases.
  • Take note of the operating hours for campgrounds and registration centers to plan your arrival accordingly.
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