Dale Hollow Lake sits along the Kentucky-Tennessee border with over 620 miles of shoreline and 28,000 surface acres of water. The area contains limestone bluffs, forested hills, and elevations between 500-1,200 feet above sea level. Camping sites around the lake range from primitive tent areas to full-service RV parks, with peak season running May through September when water temperatures reach the mid-80s.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping provides access to world-class fishing areas. "Cove Creek at Dale Hollow lake in TN is a primitive campsite with lakeside camping. There are water faucets for drinking water and a pit toilet available. Great views of the lake and plenty of sites available," notes Andy K.
Boating access: Getting on the water requires planning since many primitive sites offer limited facilities. "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," reports another visitor.
Hiking options: Bandy Creek Campground offers trails accessible directly from campsites. "The hiking that we did do was amazing. This is beautiful country and the campground was nice," writes Chelsea D. Another camper confirms, "Located right across the road from the NPS visitor center, with easy access to several trails directly from the campground."
What Campers Like
Water access points: Great Meadows Campground provides creek access for cooling off. "The sites are spread out well and not overcrowded. There are two separate areas, the first loop on the right side of the road is called deer loop. Down the road, is Racoon loop which is on the left side of the road," notes one camper.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathrooms were immaculate! Seriously the cleanest campground restrooms I believe I've seen. Ours had a filtered water bottle fill up fountain too," reports a visitor at Bandy Creek Campground.
Family-oriented layouts: The unique circular site arrangement receives positive comments. "Sites 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!" writes Kenny P. about Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
What You Should Know
Water access varies: Not all sites provide convenient water access despite proximity to the lake. "The site is on the top of a high cliff so no water swimming was possible. Very shady area. There is a boat ramp next to the site which was in constant use day and night," explains Andy K.
Varying site conditions: Site quality differs widely across campgrounds. "We stayed at the Plankyard site. We were expecting the site to be more remote - but these sites are right off a large parking area and boat ramp. The sites are not well marked and there was some litter," reports Verity O.
Cell service limitations: Turnhole Backcountry Campsite and surrounding areas have connectivity challenges. "The Green River Ferry seems to be non-operational a lot. Call the hotline the day of your drive in to see which route you should take: 270-758-2166," advises Mandy C.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pool access for children: Families appreciate designated swimming areas. "I love the way this campground is set up. Sites are in sections in small loops. Very good for families. Kids can ride their bikes around the circle. Playgrounds are everywhere. Very clean. Full hookups. Nice pool and mini golf too!" shares Beth H.
Activity planning: Pack games and equipment for recreation. "There is a pool on site and cute little blue cabins to rent. Newer restrooms and a dumpstation. The horse campground was adjacent to the regular campground," notes one camper.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade and location. "When we arrived at the campground it started snowing and the temperature dropped to 29 overnight. There were several people occupying the D loop. We were alone in the B loop. The shower house was heated and well maintained," writes Shelly S.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup preparation: Barren River Lake Resort requires planning for connections. "I 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, but didn't realize at the time there was actually hookups that far away," advises Beth H.
Site leveling challenges: Many horse campgrounds near Dale Hollow Lake require preparation for uneven terrain. "The campground is somewhat maintained and the sites are somewhat level. I like the back in sites with shade and a small patio to set up on. They have small asphalt pads so you will get your backing skills tested," explains Shelly S.
Loop navigation: Circular arrangements require maneuvering skills. "Full Time Travelers here. The only issue I had with this camp was the way the sites were situated. They were in sets, like a cul-de-sac shape, and put you really close to your neighbors. Aside from that, it was a nice setup in general," notes Jovee S.
