Best Camping in and near Lake Barkley

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Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Barkley

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Peaceful Hills Retreat Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents97 acres · Centerville, TN

Peaceful Hills Retreat 390 American Way Centerville, TN 37033 (Pleasantville) Looking for the perfect getaway, you will find some peace and quiet here! Only 14.6 miles from I-40 and located on 97 acres, this campground is surrounded by nature, very secluded and private. There is a crystal-clear creek that runs parallel with the driveway and fresh spring water flowing from pipe in the rock close to the entrance on American Way. The creek is bio-diverse, filled with fascinating species, and spring fed, which means it stays cool in the summertime. There are three beautiful homes which are able to be rented out as well. The A-frame log cabin at the top of the hill is called the lodge. The second home, which is a two-story brown log cabin, is where the host lives. The third home is the cottage. Long before these three homes were built, native Indians lived in these beautiful rolling hills and we have found many arrowheads right around the homes on this property. This is a special place and we are happy and honored to share it with you! Peaceful Hills Retreat, a family owned business, started in May of 2017. It all began when Jennifer’s brilliant brother booked a two-story home through Airbnb for Jennifer and the family for a week in the Carolinas. Their Airbnb vacation was a great experience, and she loved having a kitchen to cook in, while traveling with her large family. She gladly said goodbye to tiny hotel rooms. Linda and her daughter, Jennifer realized they desired to run a BnB, and watched the scattered pieces beautifully fall into place. Peaceful Hills Retreat is also a wedding venue. There are three beautiful spots for a lovely outdoor wedding. The waterfall site is a favorite. The lodge is a beautiful place for the reception to take place outdoors and the Honeymoon Cottage makes for the perfect getaway afterwards. At each home you may read a special book called A Soldier’s Child Foundation (ASC). This life-changing, wonderful foundation near Nashville, serves children all over our great nation who have sadly lost a parent who served in our military. ASC tremendously helped Jennifer’s family after the loss of their military soldier and Peaceful Hills Retreat donates a portion of their profits to this amazing non-profit. A Soldier’s Child Foundation removed the shame and sadness from our loss and replaced it with hope, honor. and love. A portion of our increase at Peaceful Hills Retreat goes to serve this cause to help other families. To learn more, to donate or to get involved, please visit: asoldierschild.org. If you have any other questions or if you need anything at all during your stay, please text us and we'll be happy to help. Hope to see you soon!

Hidden Timbers Homestead

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Joelton, TN

Hidden Timbers Homestead is a 7 acre campground retreat just 25 minutes outside the city of Nashville. With its open space and tall trees, it’s a private getaway still close to the action. The easy access and gravel roads give way to covered camping spots and quiet slips. The property also serves as a working homestead in its early years of development. On any given day you may be accompanied on your walks by our farm dogs or a chicken or two. Here you’ll find peace. It’s our goal that you leave revived and refreshed after hiding away for a few days on the homestead.

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Wooded Farmland

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · Nashville , TN

Young aspiring orchard vineyard biodynamic 110 acre farm woods mountain and fields. There is tons of secluded wildlife to explore , ponds and mountain trails, and groves. We have porta potty on site. Picknick tables and a fire pit and wood grill you can use . Cedar, maple, oak, poplar Gardens lavender fruit trees trails pigs, goats, cows, deer, groundhogs, ducks.

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Lionsgate Campground

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Bon Aqua Junction, TN

Enjoy glamping in our optional 2017 19' retro style camper with a bathroom and kitchen or go primitive and set up your tent or hammock by the waterfalls and rough it. 2 sites have electricity. No bathrooms or showers if you're roughing it. Just 35 minutes west of Loveless Cafe' in Nashville and 20 minutes south of the Dickson exit at I40. The 48 acre campground has just 3 big tent sites for more seclusion and is almost all old forest with wide trails and huge old growth trees. There is about a 1/2 acre of field to park in between the road and the creek if you don't have an off road vehicle. The rest is woods. Mother Nature has a lot to offer when you cross the creek into the first two campsites that are on the 30' creek. One big spring runs through the middle of the 2 sites with small cascading waterfalls. Both sites have string lights and 120V extension cords. These two sites are separated by the driveway and about 150' apart but a bridge connects the two if you have another couple that wants to join you these two spots are perfect for privacy and companionship. Expand the pictures to a full screen as you scroll so the description will show up at the bottom of the picture. Not all pictures are on the property but describe close places to visit as well. FIREWOOD: Split wood is available upon request and sold in the area (if it's available at the time) or any fallen dead wood from the forest is free. $7.00 for a 20" bundle. Please let us know ahead of time or order it on the site. SITE 1: The nicer of the two sites along the creek, has granite counters, a round fire pit with a fold down heavy cooking grate, charcoal grill and a large wrought iron table and chairs. RENT A CAMPER WITH SITE 1 or BRING YOUR PERSONAL CAMPER: Our retro style 2017 option on the other side of the creek with stairs and stones to cross the creek. Sometimes the walking stones get washed out. 30 amp. 240 and 120 volt plugs. Click on additional fees for camper electrical hook up. SITE 2: Also along side the 30' creek. There is a round steel fire pit surrounded with wrought iron chairs, a separate picnic table, granite countertop work space and a small grill. 2 fairly flat areas for tents. Set your chairs in the creek in front of your site. The clear cold water is a great place to relax and cool off or watch crawfish, minnows and salamanders and the occasional blue herron. 120V and string lights. Parking is a little tight unless you're in a Jeep of more off road vehicle that can park up the hill a bit. SITE 3: "Still Hollow" is more private and located right in the middle valley of the property where a different spring fed creek runs down the wooded valley. There is no electricity but you can still enjoy the sound of small cascading waterfalls and a creek that runs along the side of the site for a relaxing sleep. There is a granite countertop, charcoal grill and a fire ring. A small round wrought iron table and 4 chairs are there for a place to eat lunch. The old moonshine barrels are still barely standing by the spring. This site is also accessed from the opposite side of the campground on Ben Fly Rd or Greer Rd for the serious off roaders. 4 wheel drive may be necessary but a Hyundai car entered through the creek in 2 wheel drive. It was dry though. STAR GAZING for all 3 sites: There is a cleared area on top of a hill side for stargazing far from the city lights. CHECK IN: Check in can be as early as you like if the present campers have checked out. You can always hang out elsewhere on the property and start your day to explore and hike till they leave. Just let us know in advance. And you can stay all day the day of check out but you may have to pack up and park elsewhere if other campers need the spot. If not. Stay till dark. PHOTOS: EXPAND THE PHOTOS TO A SINGLE VIEW! Some photos are of nearby attractions. You can see the description of each photo and which site is in the picture when you expand them. VEHICLE TYPE AND PARKING: In order to drive up into the campsite, you may need a 4x4 vehicle but definitely need ground clearance. If you do not have a 4x4 vehicle or ground clearance, that is okay, park in the field and bring your water shoes for campsite 2. There are stairs and usually stepping stones to cross over to Site 1. Stepping stones for site 2 are coming soon. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: 4 WHEELING!!! FISHERS OFF ROAD RENTALS https://www.fishersoffroadrentals.com/ TOUR THE AREA IN A CAN-AM: Check out 'Fisher's Off Road' to rent a really nice 4 seater CAN-AM machine. Drive around the local dirt roads for miles and learn the history of Moon Shine Alley, drive through many creeks and see some beautiful views. We took to tour with Fisher and it was a blast. This company supports the locals and cleans up the trash on the sides of the roads; a great service to the area. FISHING: https://www.fishingworks.com/tennessee/maury-tn/lake/hooker-chemical-pond-d/ 30 minutes away are 3 small lakes, or very large ponds. I think it costs $5.00. They have small boats for rent as well. FISHING, KAYAKING AND CANOEING: PINEY RIVER Canoe rental: https://www.pinewoodcanoecamp.com/ Great fishing, floating and they have camping as well. OTHER CAMPING OPTIONS: Fisheroffroadrentals also has a Hipcamp site. PINEY RIVER GLAMPING: https://www.campspot.com/book/pineyriverresort Beautiful place on the piney river. Beautiful tiny home cabins, Glamping tents that are amazing. Park your own camper on the river. If you like to meet other campers, this is the place to go.

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I 40 Hideaway

34 sites · Lodging, Tents26 acres · Waverly, TN

We are located on 26 Acres in the Tennessee woods next to Cuba Landing Marina on the Tennessee River. When you book a Cabin, RV, Tent site or The House please be able to arrive before 8pm. We do not accept people after hours. We have both Tent camping in the woods and sites within the RV Park. Camp fires have to be kept small. NO BON FIRES. Hope to see you soon. Management

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Run-A-Muck on the Red River

15 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Adams, TN

As a child I grew up on the river, canoeing down Red River and even playing on this very piece of property. Twelve 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. Three 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.

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Blue Heron Landing

6 sites · RVs, Tents358 acres · Lobelville, TN

Blue Heron Campground: A Hidden Gem of History and Nature Nestled along the Tennessee River, Blue Heron Campground offers a unique blend of rich history and natural beauty. Once home to the Cherokee Indians, this 340-acre property is surrounded by water on all sides, boasting a mile-and-a-half shoreline. Just to the north, a designated 20-mile Wildlife Refuge begins, following the river and offering plenty of opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The land itself is a treasure trove, with rich farmland that has grazed cattle and now offers primitive camping with no services, located just 10 miles west of Lobelville, Tennessee. People's Landing, now a swim beach and sand boat ramp, was once a bustling port of commerce. Before the advent of good roads, steamboats, ferry boats, and trains were the primary means of transportation. Just north of People's Landing, Daniel's Landing housed a post office and small store, serving the local community. The Tennessee River is one of only three rivers in the United States that flow north, making it a unique feature of the region. Today, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, or simply watching the boats and barges pass by. For those looking to explore, a 20-mile day trip to Loretta Lynn's ranch or a 70-mile journey to Nashville awaits. The campground offers 358 acres of open meadows and forests to hike and explore, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local wildlife and a beautiful sunset over the river to end the day. Blue Heron Campground is truly a hidden gem, offering a perfect escape into history and nature.

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Sacred Dog Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Fairview, TN

Our sanctuary is a special piece of history and a regenerative farm where living soil and pollinator banks combat climate change and revive the eco-system ! The cabin we live in was built in 1797 - which we have preserved and upgraded with fantastic antique decor, Rock N Roll flare and cutting edge street art. We encourage art, music and nature crafting! We take great pride in providing a magical creative space that is welcome to earthlings of all stripes! The June blooms are exceptional and the butterflies’ will delight... you will leave a little piece of your heart here on the farm❤️🐝🐶🧚‍♀️ Horse Back Riding available!

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The Bluffs At Tumbling Creek

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · 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.

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Gypsy Camp. 1043 Gallion rd.

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Cumberland Furnace, TN

Quite country side setting where campers have a beautiful view of valley in a rural farming community. Campers have use of gas grill for cooking, picnic table, fire pit and hot tub for your use at the main house. Bathroom and shower available in main house. Pets are welcome on a leash or can run with owner supervision.

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Wooded Nashville Nook

1 site · RV1 acre · Whites Creek, TN

Travel through the tunnel of trees to reach our property, only 14 minutes from Downtown Nashville. Enjoy a grilled meal next to the firepit under the stars, or head downtown to see the music stars. This cozy, creekside RV/camper spot backs right up to a wooded hillside. Your spot is right off our road, which is pretty quiet! Our home is on the other side of the creek, so we're only a stone's throw away if you need us. You're conveniently only a 5 minute drive from a small grocery store, live local music/eats, or the beautiful hiking trails/greenway at historic Fontanel.

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Poplar Springs LLC

1 site · Lodging70 acres · Waverly, TN

Come and experience the beauty of Poplar Springs in Waverly, TN! Our tree farm covers almost 70 acres of land with lots of trees and trails to explore. You'll see plenty of animals, find wild blackberries and mushrooms, and enjoy a clear creek. In the fall, pick your own pumpkin at our small patch, and in the spring, walk through our flower field. Hang out with friends at our community area with a big fire pit and a deck for parties. Poplar Springs is the perfect place to relax and have fun in nature!

The best camping near Lake Barkley 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.