Dale Hollow Lake spans 27,700 acres across the Kentucky-Tennessee border with limestone cliffs and over 620 miles of shoreline. The lake maintains consistent water levels year-round, ranging from 60-90 feet deep in many areas. Most campgrounds near Dale Hollow Lake operate from April through November, with limited winter accommodations available.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: Kendall Campground sits below Wolf Creek Dam where a regulated trout stream flows from the national fish hatchery. "Fish the river for trout, walleye and stripers or go upon the lake for a joy ride," notes Kenny P., who visits regularly.
Hiking and biking trails: Dale Hollow Damsite features a paved trail system near the water. "It has a beautiful biking/walking path. The fish hatchery is fun for kids And there is a perfect swimming area by the dam," reports Chastity G., who camps there annually with her family.
Island tent camping: For a more secluded experience, Lillydale Campground offers primitive sites on an island. "We stayed on the island (walk in spot) and it was quiet and had beautiful views right on the water. There are also toilets and water available on the island if needed," writes Joseph B.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campsites provide direct water access for boats and swimming. "Our lot was gravel and almost perfectly level - we didn't have to do anything other than back in and connect our water and power. We loved the picnic table, and also the added grill and grate/grill over the fire ring," a camper at Lillydale Campground shared.
Privacy between sites: Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers well-spaced sites. "The sites were level, large, gravel with picnic tables and fire rings, spaced far enough apart you didn't feel crowded at all," notes Brenda L., who stayed at the campground while passing through.
Morning wildlife viewing: Many campers report frequent deer sightings around dawn. "We had daily deer visitors at our site and went trout fishing too. The walking trails around the brooke and campground were easy enough even for someone with limited mobility," reports a camper from Kendall Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Deep Valley Campground offers excellent amenities but has limited connectivity. According to Lillydale campers: "There was no wifi or cable/TV connection and we had zero cell phone coverage. However, lack of television or ability to surf the web/social media really didn't bother us much."
Platform camping: Edgar Evins State Park uses a unique platform system for campsites. "The campground is unique and in some cases, if you're pulling/parking an RV, Challenging! First campground I've ever been to that you park on a deck," explains one camper.
Shoulder season preparations: Many facilities begin closing in late October. "Spent the last 2 weeks of the season here and enjoyed our stay," reports a Kendall camper, who also notes: "Shower house is not heated and it is extremely uncomfortable... Be prepared to keep pressing a button every 55 seconds to get water."
Tips for camping with families
Fish hatchery tours: Children often enjoy visiting the trout hatchery near Dale Hollow Dam. "The fish hatchery is fun for kids And there is a perfect swimming area by the dam. The park rangers have always been very friendly. It has a park and volleyball area for kids to play at," shares Chastity G.
Kid-friendly water access: Wolf River Resort & Marina offers family-friendly beach areas. "Most campsites overlook the lake and have a lovely view of sunset... The beach access was virtually unusable due to trash everywhere, but we spent the majority of our time boating on the lake," reports Hilary A., suggesting families focus on boating activities.
Cart transportation: For island camping at Lillydale, plan your packing carefully. "You have to park in the parking lot and use one of their carts to haul all your camping gear onto the island which can be quite a chore," advises Andy K., who recommends bringing only essentials for family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many sites require minimal setup. "Sites are level clean and fairly easy to get into," notes an RVer at Baileys Point. Another camper at Lillydale mentioned: "Our lot was gravel and almost perfectly level - we didn't have to do anything other than back in and connect our water and power."
Electrical protection: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers full hookups but with occasional electrical issues. "Would have got 5 stars but the power would spike several times a day to 129-132 volts setting off alarm in coach. We moved spots and same issue but fewer times a day. Highly recommend Surge Protector at this park," advises Bill B.
RV size restrictions: Edgar Evins State Park can be challenging for larger RVs. One camper noted: "The campground is unique and in some cases, if your pulling/parking an RV, challenging! First campground I've ever been to that you park on a deck."
