menu button

Recreation Areas and Campground Database

Dale Hollow Lake

D14

Dale Hollow Lake is a vacation destination that borders the Tennessee-Kentucky state line. 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 3 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.

Dale Hollow is also renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record Smallmouth Bass and being known as a trophy Smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing. Boating and water skiing are also 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. Secluded tie-ups are located around the shore, offering visitors a peaceful nature experience. Visitors desiring modern camping facilities will enjoy four developed campgrounds providing premier water-front camp sites equipped with water and electric hookup.

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery is located a short distance below the dam. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

RecAreaDirections


From Nashville, 69 miles east on I-40, 17 miles north on TN 56, 23 miles north on TN 53 to Celina, follow signs.

Open with Google Map

Misc

Stay Limit
Reservablefalse
Keywords
Map Link
Contact Phone
Contact Email

Permits info


Important Information

Water is available from a small spring north of the Boundary trail. This campsite maybe covered in snow in early summer, if you plan an early season trip be prepared to camp on snow.


Facilities


Obey River Park Day Use Activity Pass


DALE HOLLOW DAMSITE Campground
List of Campsites

Overview

Dale Hollow Damsite is a quiet, peaceful campground in the green hills of Tennessee. The campground is a popular area for families, with an abundance of amenities and recreational activities available.

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.

Recreation

Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record smallmouth bass and being known as a trophy smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Boating and water skiing are also 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. Secluded tie-ups are located around the shore, offering campers a peaceful nature experience.

A one-mile paved walking and biking trail winds through forest, along streamside and past a rolling meadow.

The Red Oak Ridge Trail is about nine miles away and hosts 18 miles of trails, mainly developed for horseback riding, but the area is available to hikers as well. The Accordian Bluff Hiking Trail is a 7.5 mile one-way trail which ascends to a ridge-top and back down to the shoreline of Dale Hollow Lake. It is an ideal trail for birders and wildflower enthusiasts and connects both Lillydale and Willow Grove Campgrounds. Trail access is located approximately 30 miles from Dale Hollow Dam Campground.

Facilities

Dale Hollow Damsite Campground features 72 single party campsites, three group camping (double party) sites and one large group picnic shelter. Electric hookups, drinking water, flush toilets and a dump station all create a comfortable camping experience.


There is no direct access to Dale Hollow Lake from the campground, but visitors can launch at the nearby Pleasant Grove Day Use Area, an easy 3 mile drive from the campground.

Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.

Site Type Definitions:

  • An RV Site is a paved/concrete site for wheeled camping units such as motorhome, fifth wheel, pull trailer and pop-up campers. RV sites are not suitable for tents.
  • A Standard Site is one with a fine gravel surface pad. It will accommodate wheeled units and tents.
  • A Tent Site will accommodate tents only.
  • Group Standard Electric are group camping sites (19 & 40, 21 & 39, 22 & 38). One fee for both sites. ATB pass discounts do not apply. View cancellation policies as group site refund policies differ from standard sites.
  • Group Shelter Electric is the picnic shelter.

For site specifics such as site measurements, parking and if the site is level, be sure to review the Information text at the bottom of each specific site page.

All camping equipment and vehicles are to be located on the designated site pad or parking areas.   

General Site Notes:

  • 50 Amp Service and Water Hookups on all sites EXCEPT site 37
  • Site 37 does NOT have water/electric hookups
  • Paved Sites: 19, 21, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 69 & 70
  • Accessible Sites: 60, 61 & 62
  • Group camping sites: 19 & 40, 21 & 39, 22 & 38; ATB pass discounts do not apply.
  • Visitors to Campers will be charged $3 per vehicle per day
  • Fees are subject to change

A Wi-Fi hub is provided in the vicinity of the registration center providing customers the opportunity to make calls, check weather, stay up-to-date on email, and use their mobile device for making future reservations or current reservation adjustments when the registration center is closed.

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 3 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.

Nearby Attractions

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery sits adjacent to the campground. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

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 standard campsite 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).
  • Customers who cancel a group overnight campsite reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.
  • Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation (picnic shelter) less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.
  • No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use fee for a day-use facility.
  • 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 at the campground.
  • Early departures must depart and drop their tag before the checkout time in order to receive a refund for the unused day.


LILLYDALE CAMPGROUND AND DAY USE Campground
List of Campsites

Overview

Lillydale Campground and Recreation Area is located along the shores of Dale Hollow Lake in the hills of Tennessee.

Recreation

Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record smallmouth bass and being known as a trophy smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Boating and water skiing are also 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. Secluded tie-ups are located around the shore, offering campers a peaceful nature experience.

The campground is surrounded by a dense canopy of forest, and a hiking trail snakes through the landscape and along the lake shore. Lillydale hosts the best lake view of any campground on Dale Hollow Lake, with the most waterfront campsites.

The Accordian Bluff Hiking Trail is a 7.5 mile one-way trail that ascends to a ridge-top and back down to the shoreline of Dale Hollow Lake. The trail is ideal for birders and wildflower enthusiasts. This trail connects both Lillydale and Willow Grove Campgrounds and can be accessed via the trailhead located at the campground.

Facilities

Lillydale Campground features 112 single party campsites, one group island tent camping (double party) site, and one large group picnic shelter located in the day use. Electric hookups, drinking water, flush toilets and a dump station all create a comfortable camping experience.

Two boat ramps, two volleyball courts and two swimming beaches offer additional recreational opportunities. 

Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.

Site Type Definitions:

  • An RV Site is a paved/concrete site for wheeled camping units such as motorhome, fifth wheel, pull trailer and pop-up campers. RV sites are not suitable for tents.
  • A Standard Site is one with a fine gravel surface pad. It will accommodate wheeled units and tents.
  • A Tent Site will accommodate tents only.
  • Group Tent Island Area Nonelectric is a group camping site (109 & 110) on the island. One fee for both sites. ATB pass discounts do not apply. View cancellation policies as group site refund policies differ from standard sites.
  • Group Shelter Electric is the picnic shelter.

For site specifics such as site measurements, parking and if the site is level, be sure to review the Information text at the bottom of each specific site page.

All camping equipment and vehicles are to be located on the designated site pad or parking areas.  

General Site Notes:

  • 30 Amp Service and Water Hookups on sites 18, 20, 23, 26, 33, 64, 68, 71, 74, 78-93
  • 50 Amp Service and Water Hookups on sites 16-17, 19, 21-22, 24-25, 27-32, 34-63, 65-67, 69-70, 72-73, 75-77, 94-99
  • Accessible & Paved Site: 93
  • Paved Sites: 66, 67, 69, 70, 72, 73
  • Tent Only Sites: 2, 3, 8-15, 23, 31, 32, 34, 101-115
  • Island Camping Sites 110-115. Remote Park and Walk-In. No electric or water hookup on Island.
  • Group camping site: 109 & 110; ATB pass discounts do not apply.
  • Visitors to Campers will be charged $3 per vehicle per day.
  • Fees are subject to change

A Wi-Fi hub is provided in the vicinity of the registration center providing customers the opportunity to make calls, check weather, stay up-to-date on email, and use their mobile device for making future reservations or current reservation adjustments when the registration center is closed.

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 3 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.

Centrally located on Dale Hollow near the Tennessee-Kentucky State boarder, Lillydale was named one of the National Recreation Reservation Service's Top Ten Most Scenic Campgrounds to visit.

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. For a short time surrounding the Labor Day holiday, Purple Martins put on quite a show as thousands of these birds darken the evening sky. Needing to roost, they are using the small island adjacent to Lillydale campground as a layover during their migration south.

Nearby Attractions

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery is located about 32 miles from the campground. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

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 standard campsite 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).
  • Customers who cancel a group overnight campsite reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.
  • Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation (picnic shelter) less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.
  • No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use fee for a day-use facility.
  • 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 at the campground.
  • Early departures must depart and drop their tag before the checkout time in order to receive a refund for the unused day.


OBEY RIVER PARK Campground
List of Campsites

Overview

Obey River Park is a spacious campground located on the shores of Dale Hollow Lake, in the hills of Tennessee. The campground provides the largest camping area at the lake, as well as the largest and most visited swimming beach.

Recreation

Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record smallmouth bass and being known as a trophy smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Boating and water skiing are also 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.

Obey River is the most popular campground and day-use area on Dale Hollow Lake. This is a vacation destination for camping, boating, skiing, fishing and beach-goers. The site is conveniently located next to a small community hosting restaurants, history and several marinas.

Facilities

Obey River Park Campground features 123 single party campsites, four group camping (double party) sites and two large group picnic shelters. Electric hookups, drinking water, flush toilets and a dump station all create a comfortable camping experience.

A swimming beach, basketball court and playgrounds provide additional recreational opportunities. 

Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.

Site Type Definitions:

  • An RV Site is a paved/concrete site for wheeled camping units such as motorhome, fifth wheel, pull trailer and pop-up campers. RV sites are not suitable for tents.
  • A Standard Site is one with a fine gravel surface pad. It will accommodate wheeled units and tents.
  • A Tent Site will accommodate tents only.
  • Group Standard Electric/Tent are group camping sites (70 & 71, 105 & 106, 110 & 111, 113 & 114). One fee for both sites. ATB pass discounts do not apply. View cancellation policies as group site refund policies differ from standard sites.
  • Group Shelter Electric Sites are the picnic shelters.

For site specifics such as site measurements, parking and if the site is level, be sure to review the Information text at the bottom of each specific site page.

All camping equipment and vehicles are to be located on the designated site pad or parking areas.   

General Site Notes:

  • 50 Amp Service Available (View specifics under each site listing)
  • No Electric/Water Hookups: Sites 14A-19, 21-25, 27-39, 43, 46, 48-58, 110, 113, 114, 118, 119, 120
  • Tent Only Sites: 14A-19, 30, 49-58, 110, 111, 113, 114, 120
  • Paved Sites: 4-6, 9, 13, 74, 78-80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 96, 97, 105, 106, 117, 132
  • Sites with Electric and Water Hookups Include: 1-13, 20, 40-42, 44, 45, 47, 59-93, 95-109, 111, 112, 115-117, 121-132
  • Group camping sites: 70 & 71, 105 & 106, 110 & 111, 113 & 114; ATB pass discounts do not apply.
  • Visitors to Campers will be charged $3 per vehicle per day
  • Fees are subject to change

A Wi-Fi hub is provided in the vicinity of the registration center providing customers the opportunity to make calls, check weather, stay up-to-date on email, and use their mobile device for making future reservations or current reservation adjustments when the registration center is closed. 

Day user fees are $5 per vehicle. The Corps annual day use pass and the America the Beautiful passes are also accepted for day use entry. Use the automated pay station to make day use fee payment with credit card.

To access the campground, entry is first made via the day use area. Registered campers do not have to make payment at the automated pay station. Registered campers will check in at the second registration building located at the campground entrance.

Obey River Park is adjacent to Sunset Marina. Obey River Park is operated by the Corps of Engineers and the marina by a private concessionaire. Visitors using the marina are subject to operating policies and any launch/parking fees associated with the marina.

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 3 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.

During migration seasons the call of the sandhill crane is often heard overhead. Lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of one up close, as they often land near the campground.

Nearby Attractions

The nearby towns of Byrdstown and Pall Mall, Tennessee, offer historic sites and tours. The Cordell Hull Birthplace and Memorial is located near Byrdstown, Tennessee. Hull, a great statesman, is most widely remembered as a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the father of the United Nations. The Sergeant Alvin York Home Place, home of the World War I hero, is located in Pall Mall, Tennessee.

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery is about 35 miles from the campground. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

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 standard campsite 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).
  • Customers who cancel a group overnight campsite reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.
  • Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation (picnic shelter) less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.
  • No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use fee for a day-use facility.
  • 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 at the campground.
  • Early departures must depart and drop their tag before the checkout time in order to receive a refund for the unused day.


PLEASANT GROVE RECREATION AREA Campground
List of Campsites

Overview

Pleasant Grove Recreation Area is a day-use facility, located along the shores of Dale Hollow Lake in the hills of Tennessee.

Recreation

Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record smallmouth bass and being known as a trophy smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Boating and water skiing are also popular activities, and with 27,700 surface acres of water and 620 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of space for visitors to explore the lake. A boat launch is provided.

Pleasant Grover also offers a picnic area with a reservable shelter, located on a beautiful peninsula with exceptional views of Dale Hollow Dam.

Facilities

Pleasant Grove Recreation Area offers a large group picnic shelter with five picnic tables and grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are also provided.

A boat ramp provides convenient lake access.

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 3 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.

Nearby Attractions

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery is adjacent to the dam. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

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.
  • Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation (picnic shelter) less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.
  • No-shows forfeit the entire day-use fee for a day-use facility.
  • 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 at the campground.


WILLOW GROVE CAMPGROUND Campground
List of Campsites

Overview

Willow Grove is a spacious campground located at Dale Hollow Lake in the hills of Tennessee. The campground sits on an elevated plateau of land, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding forest.

Recreation

Dale Hollow is renowned for its fishing opportunities. In addition to yielding the world record smallmouth bass and being known as a trophy smallmouth lake, the Obey River below Dale Hollow Dam is also known for excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Boating and water skiing are also 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. Secluded tie-ups are located around the shore, offering campers a peaceful nature experience.

The campground is surrounded by a dense canopy of forest, and several hiking trails snake through the landscape and along the lake shore.

The Accordian Bluff Hiking Trail is a 7.5 mile one-way trail that ascends to a ridgetop and back down to the shoreline of Dale Hollow Lake. It is an ideal trail for birders and wildflower enthusiasts. This trail connects both Lillydale and Willow Grove Campgrounds and can be accessed via the trailhead located at the campground.

Facilities

Willow Grove Campground features 81 single party campsites, one group camping (double party) site and one large group picnic shelter. Electric hookups, drinking water, flush toilets and a dump station all create a comfortable camping experience.

The nearby sunken foundation of the historic Willow Grove School House provides a popular destination for scuba divers. A swimming beach, volleyball court and playground provide additional recreational opportunities.

Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.

Site Type Definitions:

  • An RV Site is a paved/concrete site for wheeled camping units such as motorhome, fifth wheel, pull trailer and pop-up campers. RV sites are not suitable for tents.
  • A Standard Site is one with a fine gravel surface pad. It will accommodate wheeled units and tents.
  • A Tent Site will accommodate tents only.
  • Group Standard Electric is a group camping site (41 & 42). One fee for both sites. ATB pass discounts do not apply. View cancellation policies as group site refund policies differ from standard sites.
  • Group Shelter Electric Site is the picnic shelter.

For site specifics such as site measurements, parking and if the site is level, be sure to review the Information text at the bottom of each specific site page.

All camping equipment and vehicles are to be located on the designated site pad or parking areas.  

General Site Notes:

  • 50 Amp Service and Water Hookups on all sites EXCEPT tent only sites
  • Tent Only Sites: 55-70, 73, 75, 77, 80, 81
  • Paved Site: 7
  • Accessible Site: 7
  • Sites with Electric and Water Hookups Include: 1-49, 71-72, 74, 76, 78-79, 82-88
  • Group camping site: 41 & 42; ATB pass discounts do not apply
  • Visitors to Campers will be charged $3 per vehicle per day
  • Fees are subject to change

A Wi-Fi hub is provided in the vicinity of the registration center providing customers the opportunity to make calls, check weather, stay up-to-date on email, and use their mobile device for making future reservations or current reservation adjustments when the registration center is closed.

Willow Grove Campground is adjacent to Willow Grove Marina. The park is operated by the Corps of Engineers and the marina by a private concessionaire. Visitors using the marina are subject to operating policies and any launch/parking fees associated with the marina.

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 3 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.

Nearby Attractions

The Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery is about 32 miles from the campground. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery is the largest federal trout hatchery east of the Mississippi, producing 1.5 million trout annually. The hatchery is open to visitors daily.

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 standard campsite 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).
  • Customers who cancel a group overnight campsite reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.
  • Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation (picnic shelter) less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.
  • No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use fee for a day-use facility.
  • 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 at the campground.
  • Early departures must depart and drop their tag before the checkout time in order to receive a refund for the unused day.


DALE HOLLOW LAKE - PRIMITIVE CAMPING Campground
List of Campsites

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.

Facilities

Primitive camping sites are remote and accessible by boat; a few have vehicle access. Each location is designated and marked. Each area has a vault or pit type toilet and a ground grill or fire circle. Tent camping is permissible within the designated areas. Cove Creek, Eagle Creek Ferry, Gunnel's Camp, Jones Chapel, Plank Yard, Red Oak Ridge A, and Taylors Ford are the only locations which provide for vehicle access. All areas are considered pack-it-in, pack-it-out locations with minimal services. Campers are expected to bring plenty of water and garbage bags. Cove Creek is the only location with drinking water. 

Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.

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 night’s 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.


Dale Hollow Lake State Park Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Horse Creek Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Cedar Hill Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Dale Hollow Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Holly Creek Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Hendricks Creek Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Wisdom Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Eagle Cove Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Star Point Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Wolf River Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Sunset Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


East Port Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Mitchell Creek Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Sulphur Creek Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Trooper Island Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Willow Grove Marina Facility

This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake


Dale Hollow Damsite Corps Pass Activity Pass


More