Barkley Lake

200 Barkley Dam Overlook
Grand Rivers, KY 42045-0218

Lake Barkley was named for former Vice-President Alben Barkley. Land Between the Lakes (US Forest Service) and Fort Donelson National Military Park are on Lake Barkley?s western shore.

Directions

From Louisville, south on I-65 to Western Kentucky Parkway, 13 miles west on US 62 through Eddyville.

Reviews

Barkley Lake campgrounds are widely appreciated for their beautiful lake views, peaceful and quiet environment, friendly and helpful staff, and clean, well-maintained facilities. Visitors enjoy spacious, often shaded sites that support a variety of camping setups including RVs and trailers. The location offers good access to outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and nearby local amenities, making it family-friendly and welcoming for repeat visits. Frequent positives include scenic waterfronts, good amenities such as bathhouses and boat ramps, and accommodating hosts. Common concerns relate to maintenance and cleanliness of older facilities, uneven or difficult site access for larger rigs, narrow or rough roads, occasional noise disturbances from golf carts and neighbors, insect and wildlife presence including mosquitoes, ants, and skunks, and limited cellular or internet service in some areas. Overall, Barkley Lake provides a relaxing natural setting with friendly service, though certain infrastructure and site-leveling improvements could enhance the experience.

Beautiful lakefront and waterfront views

Friendly and helpful camp hosts and staff

Clean and well-maintained facilities and grounds

Quiet, peaceful, and family-friendly atmosphere

Spacious and often shaded campsites

Some bathhouses and restrooms need updates and better maintenance

Uneven or difficult site access for large RVs and trailers

Narrow or rough interior roads and campground areas

Occasional noise disturbances from golf carts, parties, or wildlife

Insect and wildlife issues including mosquitoes, ants, ticks, and skunks

2,057 reviews

5 stars

1,432

4 stars

412

3 stars

136

2 stars

1 stars

Jerry P

Campground:Hurricane Creek

Loop:Hcre

Site:

Reviewed 7 days ago

The stay at Hurricane Creek was very good as always. The only problem was that the yard maintenance crew had a very load mower. It sounded like it had no muffler. The driver of the mower also blew the discharge toward my family sitting 10 to 20 feet away at a picnic table. Dangerous. When I complained to the host, I was told that there had been other complaints over the past couple of years. Even had a broken window in a vehicle and another in a camper. After the mower left my site I was walking my dog and found a rib bone someone had tossed. if the mower had picked it up and thrown it and hit a person it could easily have killed. Considering this company's failure to correct these issues. I feel that even if the company has the lowest bid, they should NOT be awarded the next contract.

Kimberly K

Campground:Canal

Loop:Hill

Site:

Reviewed 7 days ago

We stayed on site 78 that backs up to the water. We enjoyed our one-night stay at Canal Campground. The place was clean and quiet.

HAROLD M

Campground:Canal

Loop:Hill

Site:

Reviewed 9 days ago

Our last stay of the year was almost perfect, the weather was perfect, mid 70s, spot great, and plenty of nice neighbors we met was great! Didn’t even fish this time but got plenty of exercise in with our Golden Retriever, Oliver! Looking forward to next season!

Tony P

Campground:Canal

Loop:Cana

Site:

Reviewed 9 days ago

What a beautiful and nice place!The campground host was very friendly and helpful.

Jane G

Campground:Canal

Loop:Hill

Site:

Reviewed 9 days ago

The staff, especially Cindy, are the best at Canal Campground in Kentucky!!!!