Eureka
4.67183 reviews1802 St. Rt. 1271, Kuttawa, KY 42055
Eureka
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the site type and season. Additional fees may apply for reservations, cancellations, and modifications.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Barkley, Eureka Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This charming Corps of Engineers-managed retreat beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its thoughtful amenities, including water and electric hookups, refreshing hot showers, and a delightful playground for young adventurers. Launch your boat from the convenient ramp and explore the lake's hidden coves, or simply wade into the designated swimming area for a refreshing dip on warm afternoons.
Eureka Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RVs, tents, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive just beyond the campground's boundaries, where the hallowed grounds of Fort Donelson National Battlefield tell stories of Civil War courage and sacrifice. The legendary Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area sprawls nearby, offering 170,000 acres where Kentucky's frontier past meets modern outdoor recreation. These iconic destinations transform a simple camping trip into a journey through time, where morning hikes can lead to afternoon history lessons and evening reflections on America's complex heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens Eureka Campground with perfect camping conditions, as wildflowers dot the landscape and temperatures hover in that sweet spot between cool mornings and warm afternoons. Early fall brings its own magic, painting the surrounding hills in brilliant autumn hues while maintaining comfortable weather for outdoor adventures. Summer days invite lazy afternoons by the water, with temperatures that encourage swimming and evening campfires. While occasional heavy rains can sweep through, they often leave behind crystal-clear skies and that fresh, earthy scent campers love. The campground closes its gates in October, preserving its pristine condition for the next season's visitors.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain welcomes campers of all abilities, with sites naturally integrated into the landscape's subtle contours.
Natural Features and SceneryWooded rolling hills cradle Eureka Campground like a natural amphitheater, with mature trees providing dappled shade and framing spectacular views of Lake Barkley's shimmering waters. Wildlife enthusiasts often wake to deer grazing near their tents, while great blue herons patrol the shoreline and wild turkeys strut through the underbrush. As day yields to evening, the western sky transforms into a painter's palette of oranges, purples, and golds, creating those unforgettable sunset moments that become treasured vacation memories.
Geological RegionEureka Campground sits within the stunning Cumberland River Basin, where ancient geological forces carved rolling hills and valleys that now cradle Lake Barkley's expansive waters. This diverse ecosystem supports a rich tapestry of hardwood forests, creating a natural sanctuary where limestone bluffs meet gentle slopes covered in oak, hickory, and maple. The interplay of water, stone, and forest creates countless microhabitats, making every nature walk a potential discovery of the region's incredible biodiversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible, with paved roads and facilities that cater to various camping setups.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, including large, spacious options such as pull-through sites for RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies, with some sites being clustered while others offer more seclusion. Sites 10-20 are noted for being more spread out.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor better water views, consider sites 1-17. Sites 10-20 are noted for more space and privacy. Tent campers are advised to avoid sites with large gravel (e.g., Site 2).
Best CampsitesSite 4 offers unobstructed lake views and is highly praised. Site 15 is noted for its spacious layout and lake view. Site 21 offers a larger living area and easy access to the beach-like shoreline.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground within a rolling 30-day window.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Depends on site type.
Groups
Apicnic shelter is available for groups of up to 100 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into a single loop with a mix of pull-through and back-in sites, mostly paved or gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 25 to October 20 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-ups; however, reservations are strongly recommended as the campground tends to fill up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled online or via the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee applies, with additional penalties for late cancellations, including forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Eureka Campground offers diverse recreational options including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The 2.5-mile Chestnut Oaks Trail is a highlight for hikers and bikers. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The Chestnut Oaks Trail, spanning 2.5 miles, is suitable for both hiking and biking enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with Lake Barkley being known for its large yellow bass. One user commented, 'We catch more catfish in Lake Barkley than in any other lake around this area.'Swimming
A designated swimming area is available, but some users noted that the beach area could use improvement, with one user mentioning a 'mucky' lake bottom.Biking
Suitable biking opportunities are available, including the Chestnut Oaks Trail.Boating
Boating is well-supported with two boat ramps, one of which has a dock. Ideal for kayak launches.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are supported, though the beach area is described as small and could use more sand.Winter Activities
Not applicable as the campground is closed during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the proximity to Lake Barkley.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must use USDA-certified firewood.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are prevalent according to user reviews. Additionally, some sites experience flooding and muddy conditions during heavy rainfall.
Active alertsNo specific current alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services include the Lake Managers Office in Grand Rivers, KY. Specific details on hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25, 2025 - October 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, with a clean and convenient setup as noted by users.
Proximity to water featuresLake Barkley is adjacent to the campground, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsTicks and flooding during rainstorms are recurring issues. Some sites lack gravel, resulting in mud during rainfall.
HostSuzanne and Arnold, the campground hosts, are consistently praised for their friendly and helpful demeanor.
Campground Map
1802 St. Rt. 1271, Kuttawa, KY 42055
Driving directionsFrom Nashville, Tennessee take I-24 West to Exit 40. Turn left onto Highway 62 West for 2.9 miles then turn left onto Highway 810. Go 0.7 miles then turn right onto State Route 1271. Continue onto 1271 for 1.8 miles. The road leads directly into the campground.
The campground is accessible via major roads, with paved access. However, user reviews suggest that some roads within the campground are narrow, posing challenges for backing in trailers.Nearby places
Grand Rivers (approx. 6 miles), Kuttawa (approx. 8 miles), Nashville (approx. 95 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearby supplies can be found at locations such as Patti’s Restaurant, Dollar General, and Elk and Bison Prairie which are popular among visitors based on reviews.
Camper Reviews
4.7
183 reviews
Eureka is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Eureka Campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its cleanliness, friendly hosts, and picturesque lake views. Many campers praise the peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 183 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'beautiful lake views,' 'friendly and helpful hosts,' 'clean facilities,' and 'peaceful environment.'
Based on 183 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include difficulty backing into some campsites, uneven gravel at certain sites, and a desire for extended camping seasons.
Based on 183 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend booking early due to high demand, using bug spray to prevent tick bites, and selecting sites 10-20 for more space and privacy.
Based on 183 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are highlighted as the best seasons for camping due to the pleasant weather and abundant recreational opportunities. Many users wish the campground remained open longer into the...
Based on 183 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground is REALLY CLEAN! It is also really quiet and serene.' 2. 'Hosts are amazingly helpful and friendly!' 3. 'Every site has lake views.'
Based on 183 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 4, 9, 15, and 21 are frequently praised for their views and spaciousness. Site 17 is noted for ant issues.
Based on 183 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features, but paved roads and generally well-maintained facilities suggest good accessibility.
Based on 183 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, and several users noted enjoying the stay with their dogs.
Based on 183 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025