About DOVER
Overview Dover is a day-use area that overlooks the lovely Lake Barkley. Whether it's a gathering of family or friends, visitors can enjoy nature at its best in one of the country's greatest freshwater recreational complexes. Recreation Boating, fishing and picnicking are popular activities at Dover day-use area. Wildlife including the occasional deer, raccoon or golden eagle, are commonly spotted in the area.Facilities The group picnic shelter accomidates about 35 people and 10 vehicles. The facility has lights and electricity and a water spigot. Natural Features Lake Barkley, the westernmost lake on the Cumberland River, sits among wooded rolling hills. The lake is connected by canal to Kentucky Lake, a reservoir that stems from the Tennessee River. Nearby Attractions Dover is close to Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Shopping, grocery stores and gas stations are conveniently located nearby.
How to Get There
From Nashville, or St.Louis , take I-24 Clarksville, take Exit 8 for TN 237 W. 2.4 Mi., Right onto Warfield Blvd 1.6 Mi. continue onto 101st Airborne PKWY for 6.3 Mi. contine onto TN 347 -PKWY for 4.5 Mi. Turn right onto US 79 S. for 24.2 Mi. Turn right on W. Spring St. for 466 feet, Turn right at the 1st cross street onto Hood ST. for 500 feet. Turn right on to Forrest St 200 FT.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to DOVER
Heading to DOVER? 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 DOVER?
No central reservation system listed for DOVER. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232577) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DOVER?
From Nashville, or St.Louis , take I-24 Clarksville, take Exit 8 for TN 237 W. 2.4 Mi., Right onto Warfield Blvd 1.6 Mi. continue onto 101st Airborne PKWY for 6.3 Mi. contine onto TN 347 -PKWY for 4.5 Mi. Turn right onto US 79 S. for 24.2 Mi. Turn right on W. Spring St. for 466 feet, Turn right at the 1st cross street onto Hood ST. for 500 feet. Turn right on to Forrest St 200 FT.
How do I contact DOVER?
You can reach the park at phone: 270-362-4236.
References & Official Resources
