About BUMPUS MILLS
Overview From fishing to boating and hiking, campers and day visitors at Bumpus Mills enjoy hours of fun on the upstream section of Lake Barkley. Many bird species reside here, including golden and bald eagles. Don't forget to pack binoculars and a camera to take advantage of the excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife photography. Recreation The recreation area is ideal for hiking, fishing, swimming, picnicking and boating. Abundant wildlife includes wild turkey and deer.Facilities The small campground offers 15 sites with water and electric hookups. Other amenities include hot showers, a dump station, boat ramp and public marina.Natural Features Bumpus Mills is located on scenic Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills. Lake Barkley is the westernmost lake on the Cumberland River, which flows westward to the Ohio River. Barkley lies parallel to Kentucky Lake, a reservoir that stems from the Tennessee River. Between both lakes is the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Nearby Attractions Due east is Fort Donelson National Battlefield, which marks the site of the first Union victory of the Civil War. The Bear Creek Waterfowl Management Unit is a short drive south of Bumpus Mills.
How to Get There
Physical Address: 764 Forest Trail, Bumpus Mills, TN 37028 From Nashville, Tenn: Take I-24 west to Clarksville, TN. Follow Highway 79 South for 20 mi. to Highway 120. Follow Highway 120 for 10 mi. to Bumpus Mills, turn left onto Tobaccoport Road (Hwy. 1830) for 2.8 mi., turn left onto Oak Hill Road for . 9 mi., turn left onto Forest Trail then turn right into the campground.From I-24 East Cadiz KY: Take 68 west for 6.2mi., turn left on to HWY. 139 south for 15.3mi., continue on to TN. HWY 120 for 2.7 mi. Turn left onto Tobaccoport Road, Hwy 1830 for 2.8 mi., thurn left onto Oak Hill Road for .9 mi., turn left onto Forest Trail then into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 BUMPUS MILLS
Heading to BUMPUS MILLS? 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 BUMPUS MILLS?
No central reservation system listed for BUMPUS MILLS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232537) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BUMPUS MILLS?
Physical Address: 764 Forest Trail, Bumpus Mills, TN 37028 From Nashville, Tenn: Take I-24 west to Clarksville, TN. Follow Highway 79 South for 20 mi. to Highway 120. Follow Highway 120 for 10 mi. to Bumpus Mills, turn left onto Tobaccoport Road (Hwy. 1830) for 2.8 mi., turn left onto Oak Hill Road for . 9 mi., turn left onto Forest Trail then turn right into the campground.From I-24 East Cadiz KY…
How do I contact BUMPUS MILLS?
You can reach the park at phone: RESOURCE MANAGERS OFFICE: (270) 362-4236, BUMPUS MILLS CAMPGROUND: (931) 232-8831.
References & Official Resources