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Lighthouse Marina Boondocking In Grand Rivers, Kentucky – Guide for Waterfront Camping

by John Rodgers / Sunday, June 29, 2025 / Published in Kentucky
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Lighthouse Marina Boondocking
In Grand Rivers, Kentucky
Guide for Waterfront Camping

 

ADDRESS
Kentucky Lake Drive
Grand Rivers, Kentucky
GPS: 36.989066, -88.22434
Elevation: 377′
MANAGEMENT
Public – State Park
This is a FREE campsite.

 

Previous Reviews:

Lighthouse Marina Boondocking: Lighthouse Marina is open all year. This is a free dispersed campsite. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted.

About This Location

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense spot to boondock near Kentucky Lake, Lighthouse Marina boondocking in Grand Rivers Kentucky, is honestly worth considering. It’s free to park overnight right by the water, and there’s a portable toilet nearby—nothing fancy, but it does the trick.

Lighthouse Marina boondocking is open all year, which is kind of rare for places like this. The vibe is quiet, so it’s a decent pick for boaters or anyone who just wants to crash close to the lake for a night.

It’s not a full-on campground, and you won’t find hookups or fancy bathhouses here. Still, the spot is right on the water, and waking up to those lake views feels pretty special.

If you’re just passing through and want to keep things simple, this place makes sense. There’s no cost, and you get that lakeside convenience.

Lighthouse Marina Boondocking In Grand Rivers, Kentucky

For folks who want an easy overnight by the water, Lighthouse Marina boondocking in Grand Rivers has boondocking options. It’s basically a parking lot on the edge of the lake, so don’t expect much in the way of amenities.

There’s a portable toilet, but that’s about it—so bring what you need and be ready to handle things yourself. The spot is close to Kentucky Lake, tucked into a protected harbor that’s popular with boaters.

The marina itself has a bunch of boat slips and some services for boaters, but the area for boondocking is separate. It’s really only meant for short stays, and you shouldn’t plan on settling in for a week.

Here’s what you can expect:

Feature Details
Location Lighthouse Marina, Grand Rivers, KY
Type Boondocking (no hookups)
Facilities Portable toilet only
Access Parking lot by the water
Stay duration Overnight recommended
Nearby attractions Kentucky Lake, Land Between the Lakes

You’ll need to bring your own water and supplies—there’s no power, no dump station, just the basics. The area stays pretty quiet, and it’s right next to the marina, so it’s easy to check out the lakes or wander into Grand Rivers if you feel like it.

Directions

To get to Lighthouse Marina Boondocking in Grand Rivers Kentucky, start by taking Exit 31 off Interstate 24 (I-24).

After you’re off the highway, head south on Highway 453 for about 3.3 miles. Keep an eye out for a turn to the right at the lighthouse—can’t really miss it—which leads you straight to the marina.

If you’re coming from the junction of Highway 952 and Highway 453 North, go one mile northwest on Highway 453 North. Then, turn west on West Commerce Avenue for about 250 feet.

Lighthouse Marina boondocking sits near the intersection of West Commerce Avenue and Highway 453. The official address is 320 W Commerce Ave, Grand Rivers, KY 42045.

It’s pretty close to the northern entrance of Land Between the Lakes, just about ¾ mile north of that entrance. Here are the GPS coordinates if you want to plug them in:

Latitude Longitude
37.001570 -88.240880

Look for signs for the marina and lighthouse as you get close. The boondocking parking is just a simple lot by the water—not much to figure out.

Bring whatever gear you need, since facilities are limited to just a portable toilet. It’s best for a quick overnight, so plan ahead and enjoy the lake while you’re there.

Vehicle Access And Pricing

You can get to the Lighthouse Marina boondocking area by just driving your vehicle onto the gravel parking lot close to the water. It’s a straightforward setup—no paved pads, no hookups, nothing fancy.

This spot is really best for overnight stays or a quick rest, not for anyone looking for a long-term campground feel. There’s a portable toilet, and that’s about it for amenities.

There aren’t any fees for parking here, which is honestly a nice surprise if you’re used to shelling out for every little thing on the road. It’s a free boondocking option, but you’ll want to come prepared for pretty basic conditions.

The marina nearby rents boat slips, but that’s a separate deal from the parking lot. If you’re thinking of keeping your boat there, the slips can handle boats up to 42 feet and come with water and electricity—definitely not free, though.

Here’s a quick overview, just to keep things straight:

Feature Details
Vehicle Access Easy drive-in parking lot
Fees Free for boondocking
Length of Stay Best for overnight or short stay
Facilities Portable toilet only
Marina Slips Rental Paid, boats up to 42 feet

You’ll need to bring your own water and power, and figure out waste disposal if you’re planning to hang around for more than a night. This spot really works for folks who just want a simple stop on Kentucky Lake and don’t mind roughing it a little.

 

AMENITIES: ACTIVITIES:
Portable Toilet Only
Near Water
RV Camping
Tent Camping
Wildlife Viewing

 

Helpful Boondocking Information Links:

Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace

State Specific Information Links

Kentucky Park Service
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife

Table of Contents

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  • Get Directions
  • Lighthouse Marina Boondocking In Grand Rivers, Kentucky Guide for Waterfront Camping
    • Previous Reviews:
  • About This Location
  • Lighthouse Marina Boondocking In Grand Rivers, Kentucky
  • Directions
  • Vehicle Access And Pricing
    • Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
    • State Specific Information Links

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