Dale Hollow Lake spans over 27,700 acres across the Kentucky-Tennessee border with water depths reaching up to 150 feet in some areas. The lake features numerous coves and inlets ideal for quiet camping, with average summer water temperatures around 80°F. Several campgrounds offer primitive sites without electrical hookups, providing opportunities for more secluded experiences away from RV areas.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: At Dale Hollow Damsite, anglers can access the trout-filled Obey River. "Nice half mile paved walk/bike path that takes you past the trout fishing area and back to the campground," notes Gary P., who appreciated the convenient fishing access.
Kayaking in lake coves: Several primitive areas offer direct water access. Andy K. describes his experience at Kemper Flats: "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."
Stargazing in dark sky areas: Pickett County near Dale Hollow Lake is designated as a Dark Sky area. At Tuscarora Glade, Ralph M. 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."
What campers like
Lakeside tent camping: Many campers enjoy the tent-only areas with lake access. At Lillydale Campground, Andy K. observed: "I have camped twice at Lillydale campground both times on the island, which is primitive camping but has porta potty toilet hut. Nice sites all are lakeside, only drawback is that you have to park in the parking lot and use one of their carts."
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. At Obey River Park, Andy K. found that "The bathroom facilities were good, plenty of hot water for showers and the place was kept clean."
Spacious site layouts: Many campgrounds offer well-designed sites. Greg F. described Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park: "The sites are laid out like 8 spokes in a wheel, with plenty of space between sites. The facilities are kept clean. The staff is very helpful, nice and friendly."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty across much of the lake area. Megan C. at Lillydale noted: "We had zero cell phone coverage (our carrier is T-Mobile). However, lack of television or ability to surf the web/social media really didn't bother us much."
Access challenges: Some primitive areas have difficult access roads. At Standing Stone State Park, Beth H. warned: "Be mindful of the notice on the website about entering the park via Hwy 52. That's a legit warning. Thankfully we were aware of that because our GPS tried to take us that way."
Distance from supplies: Many camping areas are far from stores. Allison G. advises: "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple playgrounds and water access points make family camping enjoyable. Chastity G. recommends the Dale Hollow Damsite: "It has a park and volleyball area for kids to play at. It is close enough to the small town to pick up anything needed."
Swimming areas: Several areas offer controlled swimming spots for safer family water play. Shannon W. shares about Willow Grove: "The beach and swimming area is clean and the water is crystal clear."
Dog friendly campgrounds: Nearly all campgrounds around Dale Hollow Lake welcome pets, but specific sites work better for dogs. At Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, Jovee S. observed: "Lots of wildlife around," making it important to keep pets leashed, especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVers needing more space, Beth H. recommends: "If I could do anything different, I would have stayed at one of the paved sites (I believe they were 66-70, 72, and 73), as the gravels from our site certainly got tracked all through the bus."
Limited utility hookups: Many sites offer partial hookups only. Kenny P. notes about Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park: "Campground parallels the Obey River. Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline. Campsites have plenty of shade but restroom/shower houses could use some repair/updating."
Backing challenges: Some sites have difficult approaches for larger RVs. Beth H. warns: "Although our campsite was listed as 42 foot in length, my very experienced in driving a trailer husband had to take several attempts to back in due to trees closely lining the road and drop offs on the side of the road."
