Information on Energy Lake is somewhat scarce; however, I have discovered one author who has written somewhat extensively on the area, and his name is Johnny Molloy. I will be drawing a great deal of information from his book entitled Land Between the Lakes Outdoor Recreation Handbook, as I write this overview and brief description of the Energy Lake Campground and trail system.
Energy Lake is a quiet 370 acre inlet separated from Lake Barkley by Energy Dam, and it lies near the former community of Boardinghouse Hollow. Molloy elaborates on the vicinity near Energy Lake, saying, “Many residents lived in what was known as ‘Between the Rivers’ long before the Tennessee and Cumberland were dammed, long before TVA purchased the land, and long before the U. S. Forest Service came to 
manage this recreation area. Roads were poor and stores were few. Residents often bought goods from men who drove trucks and made the rounds of these forgotten hollows, selling everything from perfume to hoes” (Land Between the Lakes, p. 70).
Energy Lake Campground features an archery range, orienteering course, campfire theater, basketball court, playground, and canoe and kayak rentals. Boat access to Energy Lake and nearby Lake Barkley is from a boat ramp just outside the campground. Some campsites enjoy a scenic view of Energy Lake. All sites are tucked in among hickory, oak, sweet gum, sycamore, popular, and maple trees. The abundance of water, fish, and trees also attract a wide variety of bird life including herons and bald eagles.
Energy Lake Campground contains its own trail system. Johnny Molloy, in another book called The Best in Tent Camping, says, “Two loop trails totaling more than six miles can be accessed right from your campsite. They wind and roll all over this hilly country” (p. 24). He also states, “A figure-eight double loop trail emanates from Energy Lake Campground. These trails are most often used by campers at Energy Lake, but are not exclusively for their use. The trails are hilly, but the vertical variation adds an exercise component to the attractive scenery of the lower Crooked Creek Valley” (Land Between the Lakes, p. 70).
Molloy continues to describe, “This is a good trail. It makes for a challenging hike as the path winds through remote hills, alongside Crooked Creek Bay, then Shaw Branch Bay, and back to Energy Lake Campground with the help of the Connector Trail. Being little used, the trail tread is not developed, making it hard to follow at times, although the path is well blazed” (Land Between the Lakes, p. 70).
The trails at Energy Lake Campground do not offer tall mountains, massive bluffs or intriguing rock formations; however, you will encounter picturesque lake views and peaceful woods. You will come away from a day of hiking and sightseeing feeling accomplished and relaxed; and the best part is that the hiking is absolutely free. Please be respectful of the natural beauty and wildlife as you visit this national recreation area, and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”
