Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park wilderness guide
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 60 miles.

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, Kentucky
⌖ 9.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albany, Kentucky

Albany, Kentucky offers peaceful access to the scenic Cumberland Falls and nearby forests perfect for hiking, paddling, and camping. It's a quieter spot to explore Kentucky's natural beauty with opportunities for wildlife viewing and backpacking.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Burkesville, Kentucky
⌖ 10.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burkesville, Kentucky

Burkesville, Kentucky, is a peaceful spot for paddling, fishing, and easy hikes along the scenic Cumberland River. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet outdoor escape with access to river adventures and nearby forests.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Byrdstown, Tennessee
⌖ 11.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Byrdstown, Tennessee

Byrdstown offers peaceful lake adventures and forest trails ideal for paddling, fishing, and camping. It’s a quiet spot to enjoy Tennessee’s natural beauty with fewer crowds and abundant outdoor recreation.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Celina, Tennessee
⌖ 12.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Celina, Tennessee

Celina, Tennessee, is a peaceful riverside town ideal for paddling Cordell Hull Lake, fishing its rich waters, and hiking scenic trails nearby. Perfect for travelers seeking a quiet outdoor escape with camping and bird watching.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Creelsboro, Kentucky
⌖ 17.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Creelsboro, Kentucky

Creelsboro, Kentucky offers peaceful hiking and paddling adventures centered on the unique Creelsboro Natural Bridge and the Cumberland River. This quiet town is ideal for outdoor lovers seeking wildlife viewing, fishing, and camping in a scenic river valley.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hilham, Tennessee
⌖ 17.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hilham, Tennessee

Hilham is a quiet, scenic retreat ideal for outdoor lovers. From hiking and camping in Standing Stone State Park to fishing in Dale Hollow Lake, it offers serene adventure access.

Spring and Fall
Explore 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.

Seven Courses, Premium Wines: A Sommelier‑Led NYE at Wildwood
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Granville, Tennessee
WineADV Bookable

Seven Courses, Premium Wines: A Sommelier‑Led NYE at Wildwood

A Wildwood Resort and Marina experience in Granville that pairs a seven-course New Year’s Eve dinner with premium wines guided by the resort’s sommelier — this guide distills what to expect and how the evening unfolds.

WinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip