Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp

Welcome to Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp, your ideal destination for an authentic and tranquil outdoor experience nestled right here in the heart of Kentucky's breathtaking Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Located near Eddyville, Cravens Bay is more than just a campground; it’s a serene lakeside haven offering direct access to the beautiful waters of Lake Barkley. We understand that for many Kentuckians, the perfect outdoor getaway combines stunning natural beauty with opportunities for fishing, boating, and quiet relaxation. Cravens Bay delivers on all fronts, providing a peaceful retreat for anglers, kayakers, hikers, and families seeking a genuine connection with nature.

Our focus at Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp is to provide a functional and respectful environment that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of our state, on your own terms. As a self-service facility, we offer a straightforward approach to camping, giving you the freedom to settle in and explore at your leisure. We pride ourselves on maintaining a clean and accessible space that encourages relaxation and outdoor adventure. While amenities are geared towards a more rustic experience, the unparalleled lake access and peaceful atmosphere truly set us apart, making us a cherished spot for those who appreciate the untouched beauty that Kentucky offers. It's a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors.

Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp is located at Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground, Eddyville, KY 42038, USA. This prime location places our campground directly on the beautiful shores of Lake Barkley, a significant part of the vast Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Being within LBL means campers are enveloped by a diverse ecosystem and have immediate access to one of Kentucky’s most popular lakes.

Accessing Cravens Bay is part of the adventure, guiding you along scenic routes into the heart of LBL. From major routes like I-24, you’ll typically navigate via the Woodlands Trace Scenic Byway (KY 453) and then onto well-marked Forest Service roads like Road 117 and Road 118, which lead directly to the campground. While some visitors note that it's a bit of a drive from nearby services, this contributes to the secluded and peaceful atmosphere that many seek. The roads leading to the campground are generally suitable for vehicles, including those towing trailers and RVs, though campers should be prepared for narrower, paved and hard-packed gravel roads within the campground itself. This relatively easy accessibility ensures that Kentuckians from various parts of the state can reach our tranquil lakeside escape with minimal hassle, allowing for more time to enjoy the fishing, walking, swimming, and beautiful views that await at Cravens Bay.

As a self-service campground within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp offers essential amenities designed to provide a comfortable yet rustic outdoor experience. Our services cater to those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency in their camping adventures.

• Varied Campsite Options: We offer sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs (non-electric), with many providing a secluded feel, some directly on the water.
• Affordable Nightly Rates: Camping is offered at a reasonable rate, with discounts often available for America the Beautiful and Senior Pass cardholders.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience. Some seasonal flush toilets may also be available (check current conditions).
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table for outdoor dining. You can collect dead and downed wood for fires within LBL.
• Boat Ramp and Lake Access: A major highlight is the easy access to Lake Barkley via a dedicated boat ramp and courtesy dock, perfect for launching boats, kayaks, and canoes. Direct lake access for swimming and fishing from the bank is also available.
• Ice Sales: Ice is typically available for purchase from the camp host, a convenient amenity for keeping provisions cool.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are provided for convenient waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean.
• Camp Host Presence: A camp host is often on-site to assist with check-in, answer questions, and ensure a smooth stay, providing a friendly point of contact.

Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp is highly regarded for several key features and highlights that truly define the camping experience here. These elements combine to create a memorable and highly recommended destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Kentucky.

• Exceptional Lake Access: With a dedicated boat ramp and direct shoreline access, it’s a premier spot for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and boating on Lake Barkley. Many sites offer beautiful views of the lake.
• Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: As highlighted by customer reviews, this campground offers a sense of seclusion, allowing campers to feel "secluded from everyone else" and enjoy a "quiet picnic with a great view." This makes it ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape from crowds.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your canine companions (though always remember to keep them on a leash, as noted by a reviewer regarding a "grumpy camp host" reminding guests of this rule).
• Family-Friendly: With ample space for walking, swimming, and exploring, it's a "Great place for kids" to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
• Opportunities for Primitive Camping: For those who enjoy a more rustic experience, the non-electric sites offer a back-to-basics approach, complete with fire rings and picnic tables.
• Dark Skies: Its remote location away from major light pollution means Cravens Bay offers fantastic opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.
• Abundant Wildlife: Being within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, expect opportunities for wildlife observation, including various bird species and other local fauna.
• Value for Money: Priced affordably at "$12 a night for 2 tents," it offers excellent value for a lakeside camping experience.

For inquiries or to learn more about Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp, please use the following contact information. As part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, the general LBL phone number is typically the primary point of contact for self-service campgrounds.

Address: Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground, Eddyville, KY 42038, USA
Phone: (270) 924-2000
Mobile Phone: +1 270-924-2000

While this is a self-service campground, these contact numbers can be used for general information regarding LBL camping, current conditions, or assistance during your stay. It's always a good idea to check the Land Between the Lakes official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

For our valued locals across Kentucky, Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp stands out as an exceptional and easily accessible outdoor haven, offering a distinct and fulfilling camping experience. We understand that Kentuckians cherish opportunities to enjoy our state's natural beauty, and Cravens Bay perfectly fits the bill. Its location within the vast Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area means you're just a short drive from immersive nature, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or extended stays without the burden of long-distance travel.

The "self-service" aspect, combined with its affordability ("$12 a night for 2 tents"), makes it an incredibly convenient and budget-friendly option for families and individuals. For those who enjoy a more rustic approach, the lack of electric hookups means a quieter, more authentic camping experience, although some may need to contend with generators, as noted by a reviewer. However, this often contributes to the "secluded from everyone else" feel that many seek. The direct access to Lake Barkley for "fishing, camping, walking, swimming," as highlighted by a satisfied customer, is an invaluable asset, ensuring endless recreational possibilities right at your doorstep. Furthermore, being "pet friendly" and a "great place for kids" means it caters to the whole family, fostering cherished memories in the great outdoors. Cravens Bay is truly a local gem, providing a peaceful, accessible, and naturally beautiful escape for all Kentuckians.

Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground & Boat Ramp

Cravens Bay Self-Service Campground, Eddyville, KY 42038, USA