Top Free Dispersed Camping near Dale Hollow Lake

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Dale Hollow Lake, KY (3)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    1. Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    8 Reviews
    60 Photos
    68 Saves

    Overview

    Dale Hollow Lake Primitive Camping is a unique series of 32 locations with a total of over 70 individually designated family campsites dispersed over 620 miles of shoreline. Campsites are located in both the states of Tennessee and Kentucky. Primitive camping offers a unique rustic lake front camping experience. Remote locations along the shoreline offer campers a peaceful nature experience. Most designated tent sites are accessible only by boat; while a few can be reached by country road. Campers are advised that these areas are remote, primitive sites. Toilets are vault/pit type outhouses. Campers desiring on-site attendant, security and law enforcement services are encouraged to use developed campgrounds where such services are provided. These services are not provided for primitive camping.

    Recreation

    Dale Hollow Lake, with its crystal clear water and forested hillsides, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities and holds the world record for smallmouth bass and is known as a trophy smallmouth lake. Boating and water skiing are popular activities, and with 27,700 surface acres of water and 620 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of space for campers to explore the lake.

    Natural Features

    Dale Hollow Dam and Lake was completed in 1943. Although the dam was built for flood control and power generation, it has now become a recreational oasis for more than 3 million visitors each year. The dam is located on the Obey River, about three miles east of Celina, Tennessee. Surrounded by a thick expanse of forest, the clear blue lake creates a stunning scenic backdrop for a variety of water and land recreational activities. In the late fall through early spring, the American bald eagle can be spotted flying overhead or perched on low-lying limbs. Dale Hollow hosts the second-largest wintering eagle population in the states of Tennessee and Kentucky.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Full rules and reservation policies for fees associated with changes and cancellations can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies There is no fee to make a reservation. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A $10 service fee may be charged to changes made to an existing reservation (see full policies for when this is applicable). A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. Applicable fees, including service/cancellation fees and change fees, are non-refundable and subject to change. No refunds for recreation use fees may be made locally at the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $5 / night

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Dale Hollow Lake

    9 Reviews of 3 Dale Hollow Lake Campgrounds




    Guide to Dale Hollow Lake

    Camping near Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the outdoors, there’s something for every type of camper.

    What to do:

    • Fishing: Dale Hollow Lake is known for its great fishing spots. At Kendall Campground, one visitor shared, "Fishing was good. Nice hiking trails." This makes it a perfect spot for anglers looking to catch some trout or bass.
    • Hiking: There are plenty of trails around the lake. A camper at Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, "The trails are great, but the campground is disappointing." This highlights that while the campground may need some work, the hiking opportunities are worth it.
    • Swimming and Kayaking: Many campgrounds have access to the lake for swimming and kayaking. A review from COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground states, "This is a beautiful campground. I really liked that sites were not too close together." This makes it a great place to enjoy water activities without feeling crowded.

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Old Mill Camp and General Store said, "The bathrooms were immaculate," which is a big plus for families.
    • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A review for Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park noted, "Large sites and the facilities were well maintained," making it a comfortable choice for larger groups.
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park remarked, "Very friendly staff," which can make a camping trip more enjoyable.

    What you should know:

    • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground warned, "Fair warning there is no cell service," so be prepared to unplug.
    • Site Conditions Vary: Some sites may not be level or easy to access. A visitor at Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas mentioned, "The view was blocked by overgrowth," indicating that site selection can impact your experience.
    • Seasonal Closures: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Kendall Campground is open year-round, while others may close during winter months.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds or kid-friendly activities. A review for Old Mill Camp and General Store highlighted, "The little playground was a blast for the kids," making it a great choice for families.
    • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids engaged. A camper at Standing Stone State Park Campground noted, "There is plenty for children to do," which can help keep the little ones entertained.
    • Pack Essentials: Bring along items like bug spray and sunscreen. A visitor at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park reminded campers to "bring the bug spray, sunscreen and plenty of extension cords."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify the size of your site before booking. A camper at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park mentioned, "The sites were in cul-de-sacs," which can be tricky for larger RVs.
    • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads and tight turns. A review for Lake Cumberland State Resort Park noted, "The sites are pretty close together," so be cautious when maneuvering.
    • Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Kendall Campground found, "Two dump stations," which can be helpful for RVers needing to empty tanks.

    Camping near Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to explore.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Dale Hollow Lake?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Dale Hollow Lake is Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping — Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park with a 3.8-star rating from 8 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Dale Hollow Lake?

      TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Dale Hollow Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.