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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Dale Hollow Lake

Celina, Kentucky · Clay County

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 …

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About Dale Hollow Lake

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.

Plan Your Visit to Dale Hollow Lake

Heading to Dale Hollow Lake? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Dale Hollow Lake?

No central reservation system listed for Dale Hollow Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/386) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Dale Hollow Lake?

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

How do I contact Dale Hollow Lake?

You can reach the park at phone: (931) 243-3136.