Nickell Branch Campground

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Payment via self-service fee envelope system at entrance.

About

Nickell Branch Campground is located in the northern Kentucky section of Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area along Lake Barkley. This self-service campground offers a more primitive camping experience compared to the developed campgrounds in the area, with basic amenities perfect for campers seeking lakeside solitude and direct boat access. The campground features designated campsite pads with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills at each site. Vault toilets and trash pickup service are provided, though campers should note that no potable water is available on-site and must be brought in. A boat ramp provides convenient access to Lake Barkley for fishing and water recreation. The campground is accessible via Woodlands Scenic Trace (FS Road 100). Nickell Branch operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Campers pay the nightly fee using the self-service fee envelope system at the Iron Ranger fee tube located at the entrance. Payment must be made within 30 minutes of setting up camp, and cash or check is required.

Directions

Follow signs along Woodlands Scenic Trace (FS Road 100) in the northern Kentucky section of Land Between the Lakes.

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