Established Camping
Barren River Tailwater
Barren River Tailwater, near Scottsville, Kentucky, is a scenic spot that offers a laid-back camping experience right by the water. With sites that are mostly level and some even right on the river, it’s a great place to kick back, fish, or just soak in the natural beauty.
This campground is equipped with essential amenities like drinking water and electric hookups, making it comfortable for both tent campers and RVs. Visitors have mentioned the friendly staff and the well-kept grounds, which include picnic areas and a playground for the kids. One camper noted, “The attendants were super nice and helpful,” which adds to the welcoming vibe of the place.
For those who love fishing, you’re in luck! The Barren River is just a stone's throw away, and there are plenty of spots to cast a line. Plus, the nearby Twisted Oliver Trail offers great opportunities for hiking and biking. Just keep in mind that cell service can be spotty, so it’s a perfect chance to unplug and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Barren River Tailwater is a solid choice for a relaxing camping trip.
Description
Army Corps of Engineers
Barren River Recreation Area
Overview
The Tailwater Campground offers 48-sites located along the Barren River, just below the dam. This lazy riverside campground is quieter than neighboring campgrounds and seems to have a slower pace since it is set below the lake, yet close enough for easy lake access. Annually, the campground is host to the Barren River Lake Scout Celebration which began in 1995. Scouts from surrounding states converge at the Tailwater Campground to celebrate, compete, and demonstrate their skills over the weekend. This event occurs every August and is something everyone can be a part of as a participant or on looker. View a virtual tour of Barren River Lake.
Recreation
The Tailwater provides a great location when fishing for catfish or hybrid striped bass, and downstream provides an opportunity to catch several different species of bass, as well as a variety of sunfishes. Try hiking the Steen Bergen Nature Trail for a chance to spot resident great horned owls, a variety of woodpeckers, migrating songbirds, or a family of chipmunks. The river offers a chance to see belted kingfishers, green herons, or maybe even an otter dining on an afternoon snack.
Natural Features
Beautiful views of high cliffs and hills are on the other side of the river. Frequently you will see a bald eagle perched waiting for a fish to surface from the stilling basin's discharge. The surrounding woods are a quiet retreat and an opportunity for wildlife viewing at the permanent wildlife blind.
Nearby Attractions
The lake's shoreline is less than a mile away for swimming and boating activities. The premier recreation area, Port Oliver, is just across the dam and Quarry Road Recreation Area offers a reservable pavilion, fishing piers, playground, flush toilets, swimming area with beach, and a variety of picnic sites. Stop and visit Barren River Lake State Resort Park, host of the Glasgow Highland Games. Peninsula Marina is less than five miles away. Good day trips to other local area attractions include: the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Down Under, and Diamond Caverns. There are several other family attractions within the Glasgow, Bowling Green, and Cave City region and visitors can explore Mammoth Cave National Park, an hour north of the campground.
Location
Barren River Tailwater is located in Kentucky
Directions
From Glasgow, KY: Take 31-E south for 4 mi; turn right on 252, which will cross the dam in 8 mi. The Tailwater entrance road is at the south end of the dam. Follow signs into recreation area. Approximately 19 miles from Bowling Green, KY.
Address
1055 Tailwater Road
Scottsville, KY 42164
Coordinates
36.8944444 N
86.1330556 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 22 min from Bowling Green
- 1 hr 2 min from Elizabethtown
- 1 hr 13 min from Nashville
- 1 hr 35 min from Clarksville
