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State Park · KY, TN

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park offers extensive shoreline along one of the clearest lakes in the eastern U.S., providing premier fishing, boating, and hiking experiences within a lush woodland environment.

State Park3,1004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,100

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park offers extensive shoreline along one of the clearest lakes in the eastern U.S., providing premier fishing, boating, and hiking experiences within a lush woodland environment.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is situated on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, encompassing a large area around Dale Hollow Lake—a reservoir formed by damming the Obey River. Known for its crystal-clear water and scenic forested ridges, the park covers approximately 3,100 acres and offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills and coves. The lake itself spans over 27,000 acres with 620 miles of shoreline, making it a prime destination for anglers seeking trophy smallmouth bass and other game fish. Founded in 1941, the park has a rich history connected to regional development and water resource management.

Visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Trails wind through mature hardwood and pine forests, providing opportunities to see local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. The park’s lodge offers comfortable accommodations along with access to marina facilities, making it a popular year-round getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Notable landmarks include the Dale Hollow Lake Marina and several scenic overlooks where visitors can admire the serene waters and sprawling forested hills. The park also hosts seasonal events and interpretive programs that highlight the natural and cultural significance of the area.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Standing Stone State Park★ 7.2⌖ 14 miHiking
Standing Stone State Park

Standing Stone State Park

Explore Standing Stone State Park in Hilham, TN, known for easy hiking trails and serene kayaking on the lake. Best visited in spring and fall. A peaceful, family-friendly spot with historical significance. Quiet year-round, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Waterfall Wonders at Big Lily Creek★ 5.5⌖ 28 miHiking
Big Lily Creek waterfalls

Waterfall Wonders at Big Lily Creek

Explore Big Lily Creek waterfalls near Russell Springs, KY for a serene and picturesque experience. Offering easy access, this quiet location is perfect for photographers, picnicking, and enjoying nature. Best visited in spring or fall. Expect slippery rocks near the waterfall.

Adventure Awaits at Pogue Creek Canyon★ 8.3⌖ 28 miHiking
Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area

Adventure Awaits at Pogue Creek Canyon

Explore Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area near Jamestown, Tennessee. Known for its scenic rock formations and diverse ecosystems, it's a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching, especially in spring and fall. Accessible from TN-154, the area welcomes adventure seekers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Dale Hollow Lake Marina, a hub for boating and fishing activities✦ Clear waters known for exceptional smallmouth bass fishing✦ Trail network through mixed hardwood forests and ridge vistas✦ Scenic overlooks providing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee applies for vehicles; marina and activity fees vary by service

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Dale Hollow Lake Campground

Located near the lodge with full hookup sites, tent sites, and access to restrooms and showers.

Rocky Point Primitive Campground

A more remote area ideal for tent camping near the lake with limited facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Albany
⌖ 9.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albany, Kentucky

A quiet gateway to rugged natural landscapes and waterways in South Central Kentucky, ideal for paddling and hiking enthusiasts seeking less crowded outdoor experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Burkesville
⌖ 10.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burkesville, Kentucky

A quiet river town offering a peaceful gateway to outdoor water adventures and gentle hiking in the Cumberland River valley.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Byrdstown
⌖ 11.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Byrdstown, Tennessee

A tranquil gateway to Tennessee’s rugged lakes and forested hills, offering peaceful opportunities for paddling, hiking, and fishing.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Celina
⌖ 12.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Celina, Tennessee

A quaint riverside town offering peaceful paddling, hiking, and fishing in a serene rural setting near Cordell Hull Lake.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Creelsboro
⌖ 17.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Creelsboro, Kentucky

A tranquil riverside town known for its historic natural arches and rich outdoor water activities along the Cumberland River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Hilham
⌖ 17.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hilham, Tennessee

A quiet rural town offering serene outdoor experiences amidst the Cumberland Plateau's natural beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Middle TN Back Country Can-Am Tours by Fisher's Off-Road ToursWilliamsport, Tennessee · 45.00 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Fisher's Off-Road Tours LLC

Middle TN Back Country Can-Am Tours by Fisher's Off-Road Tours

Discover Tennessee’s wild side with Fisher's Off-Road Tours’ 2-hour Can-Am experience in Williamsport. Glide through water crossings, view waterfalls, and uncover historical sites on this guided adventure that delivers off-road excitement for all. Keep reading to learn what makes this trip a must-do for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

2 hours

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Cave Boat Tour | Boat Tour in Franklin, KentuckyFranklin, Kentucky · 45.67 mi away
On the Water· Lost River Cave

Cave Boat Tour | Boat Tour in Franklin, Kentucky

Discover the underground beauty of Lost River Cave on a private boat tour that combines adventure, history, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable experience. Perfect for all ages, this guided journey reveals stunning formations and fascinating stories beneath Franklin. Keep reading to find out why this activity is a must-do in Kentucky!

1–1.5 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.