Dale Hollow Lake campsites span across both Tennessee and Kentucky, with the lake covering approximately 28,000 acres and reaching depths of 150 feet in some areas. The water remains notably clear throughout the season, with visibility extending 10-15 feet below the surface in many areas. Dale Hollow camping options offer both developed campgrounds with electrical hookups and primitive sites accessible only by boat.
What to do
Fishing for smallmouth bass: Dale Hollow Lake is renowned for record-breaking smallmouth bass catches. "The lake is known for great fishing and boating as well. The campground is pretty large and just about every site has a lake view, and many are lake front with lake access," notes a visitor to Obey River Park.
Kayaking in secluded coves: The lake features numerous small inlets perfect for paddling exploration. "The lake has dozens of little 'fingers' and 'tendrils,' making for great little coves to paddle, explore, or just find some peace and quiet," according to a camper at Lillydale Campground.
Stargazing in dark sky territory: Pickett County near Dale Hollow has minimal light pollution for exceptional night views. A camper notes: "Pickett County Tennessee is one of the few places in the world with a Dark Sky rating, meaning there is little to no light pollution. Tuscarora Glade is so dark at night and the stars are just so brilliant."
Swimming in clear waters: The lake offers multiple swimming opportunities with exceptional water clarity. "The beach and swimming area is clean and the water is crystal clear," reports a visitor to Willow Grove Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside accessibility: Many sites allow direct water access from your campsite. "If you get a lakefront site you can throw your kayak or float in right at your site. You can't go wrong in site selection," writes a camper at Obey River Park.
Limited shoreline development: Unlike many popular lakes, Dale Hollow remains largely undeveloped. "Dale Hollow Lake, which -- for some delightful reason -- has serious limits on development. This makes for green hillsides, clean water, minimal power boats, and very, very few houses or businesses along the shores," notes a reviewer at Lillydale.
Primitive island camping: For those seeking a more remote experience, island camping offers unique opportunities. "We took a pontoon boat out to Kemper Flats on Dale Hollow lake for a few days relaxing fishing. Primitive site, island with a porta toilet. Camp right on the side of the lake, very quiet and peaceful," writes a camper at Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping.
Circular campsite layouts: Several campgrounds feature unique spoke-wheel site arrangements. "The sites are laid out like 8 spokes in a wheel, with plenty of space between sites," observes a visitor to Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
What you should know
Boat-accessible sites require planning: Some of the best camping requires water transportation. "We reached Kemper by pontoon boat from Willow Grove Marina a short 20 min ride. Nice site primitive cabin toilet no water faucet. Bring it in, take it out," advises a camper.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. "There was no wifi or cable/TV connection and we had zero cell phone coverage (our carrier is T-Mobile)," reports a camper at Lillydale Campground.
Reservation necessities: Plan ahead, especially for waterfront sites. "If you want to do the hike which I highly encourage it. Pro tip if you want to go on the hike go early almost right when the park opens. There are less people which makes the hike more enjoyable," recommends a visitor to Old Mill Camp.
Remote location considerations: Many campsites require substantial driving on rural roads. "The road is about 13 miles from the main road so make sure you have everything before you set up camp! The marina does have a convenience store and ice," advises a camper at Willow Grove Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities for children: Several campgrounds have dedicated facilities for younger visitors. "Beautiful sites and lots of good exploring and kid activities," reports a camper at Standing Stone State Park. Another mentions: "Had a pool, volleyball courts, short hikes, and soccer fields."
Swimming safety features: Designated swimming areas with gradual entry points make water access safer for children. "Our family just returned from a 4-day stay at Lillydale and we couldn't have been more pleased. We stayed at site #61 - the lake was literally steps away from our door, and it was a no wake zone. I felt completely comfortable with my kids swimming just off-shore next to our site," shares a parent.
Site selection for group camping: Circular camping layouts work well for family gatherings. "Campsites are on loops off the main loop/road. It puts 7-8 sites in a circle so it's possible for families to rent multiple site in same loop. Plenty of room for kids to play and also has a swimming pool!" notes a visitor to Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. "30 amp service only," notes a camper at Deep Valley Campground, while others offer 50-amp connections.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for proper leveling. "The site was very unlevel as well. It was list to have a 'slight' grade and I'd beg to differ on that. We were backed up to overhang the site and maxed out our tongue jack and was barely able to get level," reports a visitor to Standing Stone State Park.
Water hookup distance: Be prepared with extended hoses at certain campgrounds. "I also wish they would have mentioned the length to water hookup. We ended up having to go buy a longer water hose bc the hookup was more than 30 foot away. We now keep a 50 foot hose."
Access route considerations: Larger rigs may have difficulty navigating to some campgrounds. "The south entrance is a single lane bridge with a sharp turn so longer rigs need to come in on the north end," advises a camper at Standing Stone State Park.
