About EUREKA
Overview Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.Recreation Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.Facilities The campground offers 26 sites with water and electric hookups. Additional amenities include hot showers, playground, boat ramp and swimming area. A picnic shelter is available for groups up to 100 guests. Electric hookups are available. Natural Features Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding. Nearby Attractions Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.
How to Get There
Physical Address: Eureka Campground, 1802 St. Rt. 1271, Kuttawa, KY 42055 From 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to EUREKA
Heading to EUREKA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for EUREKA?
No central reservation system listed for EUREKA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232585) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to EUREKA?
Physical Address: Eureka Campground, 1802 St. Rt. 1271, Kuttawa, KY 42055 From 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.
How do I contact EUREKA?
You can reach the park at phone: 270-388-9459.
References & Official Resources