Tailwater
4.26169 reviews1055 Tailwater Road, Scottsville, KY, 42164, USA
Tailwater
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $30/night for Standard Electric sites, with additional fees of $2 for weekends and holidays. Group sites are $50/night regardless of season. Non-peak season rates for Standard Electric are $16/night. Rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of Barren River Dam, Tailwater Campground offers 48 riverside sites where the rhythmic flow of water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. This hidden gem draws anglers at dawn, hikers exploring winding trails, and wildlife enthusiasts who come seeking glimpses of the river's most elusive residents. Here, the pace slows down, conversations happen around campfires, and the river's gentle current carries away the stress of everyday life.
Tailwater Campground is well-suited for tent camping, RVs, and primitive camping. Group sites are also available, making it versatile for different camping preferences.
Historical SignificanceEach August, Tailwater becomes the epicenter of outdoor youth culture when the renowned Barren River Lake Scout Celebration takes over the grounds. Scouts from multiple states converge here, transforming the campground into a bustling hub of wilderness skills demonstrations, friendly competitions, and the forging of lifelong friendships around shared campfires.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Tailwater comes alive as warm Kentucky sunshine filters through the canopy and all amenities welcome visitors to their peak season experience. As autumn arrives and crowds thin, the campground transforms into a quieter retreat where dedicated adventurers enjoy crisp air and brilliant fall colors. During these cooler months, basic comforts like pit toilets and dump stations remain available for those who prefer camping when nature has the landscape mostly to itself.
ElevationThe campground rests at river level, where the landscape's natural contours create an intimate connection with the water below the dam.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering limestone cliffs frame your camping experience while dense woodland creates a natural amphitheater along the Barren River's edge. Early risers might spot bald eagles surveying their domain from ancient perches, while patient observers at the permanent wildlife blind are often rewarded with playful otter sightings and a symphony of native bird species. The interplay of water, stone, and forest creates ever-changing vistas that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible throughout the seasons.
Geological RegionTailwater Campground sits within Kentucky's dramatic karst landscape, where the Barren River has carved its path through ancient limestone formations. The imposing dam above creates a unique ecosystem below, while surrounding cliffs and wooded hills showcase the region's geological story written in stone. This corner of Barren River Lake country represents some of Kentucky's most striking natural architecture, where water and time have sculpted a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides level sites, some with close proximity to restrooms, making it suitable for those with mobility challenges. However, there are mixed reviews regarding accessibility to fishing areas and recreational facilities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are spacious and level, while others are small and may have sloping ground.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some are described as "spacious and shaded," while others are in "plain view" with little privacy.
Total Campsites48 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #38 is described as peaceful and near bathrooms and fishing areas; Site #16 has water and electric access.
Best CampsitesCampsites #38 and #16 are frequently praised for their proximity to bathrooms and fishing spots.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
5:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site were not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties and are priced at $50 per night. Users have reported occasional booking and maintenance challenges.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as small and close together, with some offering level gravel pads. The campground is laid out near the river and dam.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 2 to Dec 31; no bookings are allowed from September 20 to October 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the app, or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability was explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled up to midnight on the day before arrival, incurring a $10 fee and forfeiting the first night's recreation fee if late. For group facilities, cancellations within 14 days before arrival forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers activities such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, with additional opportunities for sports like volleyball and softball. The nearby Barren River and its surroundings provide ample recreation options.
Hiking
The Steen Bergen Nature Trail offers chances to see great horned owls, woodpeckers, migrating songbirds, and chipmunks. Visitors have praised the scenic beauty of the trail.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with anglers targeting catfish, hybrid striped bass, sunfishes, and various bass species. However, some users noted that overgrown banks made access challenging.Boating
Boating activities can be enjoyed at the nearby lake, less than a mile from the campground. Visitors often combine their stay with trips to the lake for boating.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bald eagles, otters, great horned owls, and green herons are often spotted. A permanent wildlife blind enhances viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter visitors may face limited amenities, but the campground is described as peaceful and suitable for solitude-seekers.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on the nearby lake, accessible within a short drive.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood from outside the area is prohibited to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced, typically after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as otters and bald eagles are common. Access to the river may involve navigating steep banks, especially for fishing.
Active alertsFirewood restrictions are in place to prevent the spread of invasive insects. Seasonal limitations on amenities during non-peak months.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Scottsville, KY (approx. 4 miles away), with additional services in Bowling Green, KY (approx. 19 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 to September 20
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but there is no mention of recycling facilities. Users have commented on trash being left in fire pits and around campsites, indicating occasional lapses in maintenance.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Barren River, less than a mile from Barren River Lake.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of mowing, sewer-like odors, and limited Wi-Fi or cell service. Some users mention disorganized staff or overgrown grass.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, with positive reviews stating they ensure cleanliness and provide assistance.
Campground Map
1055 Tailwater Road, Scottsville, KY, 42164, USA
Driving directionsFrom Glasgow, KY: Take 31-E south for 4 mi; turn right on 252, which will cross the dam in 8 mi. The Tailwater entrance road is at the south end of the dam. Follow signs into recreation area. Approximately 19 miles from Bowling Green, KY.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located near the dam, approximately 19 miles from Bowling Green, KY. Seasonal access may vary, with some amenities limited during the off-season.Nearby places
Glasgow, KY (approx. 4 miles)
Bowling Green, KY (approx. 19 miles)
Nearby supplies
A bait shop and store are available near the campground entrance, and additional supplies can be found in nearby Scottsville (4 miles away) and Bowling Green (19 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
169 reviews
Tailwater is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful setting, excellent fishing opportunities, and friendly hosts. However, recurring issues include poor maintenance, especially regarding mowing and restroom facilities, and inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 169 reviews
What Campers Love
Peaceful and scenic environment, "friendly and helpful hosts," excellent fishing spots, and level campsites with water and electric hookups during peak season.
Based on 169 reviewsCommon Concerns
Maintenance issues such as tall grass and trash, limited restroom and shower facilities, poor cell service, and occasional noise or rule enforcement problems.
Based on 169 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a long extension cord for electric hookups. Plan for limited cell service and Wi-Fi. Consider off-season camping for solitude, but be aware of reduced amenities.
Based on 169 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season (May-September) features full amenities and is popular for fishing and family activities. The off-season offers a quieter experience but with reduced facilities, leading to mixed reviews.
Based on 169 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Campsite #38 is a little piece of heaven on earth," "The nearby beach was small but easy to get to," "The campground is quiet, the bathrooms are always clean," "Kids all in the street, no...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 16: Sloping ground, hard to pitch a tent. Site 38: Close to fishing spots and bathrooms. Site 23: Floods during rain, not recommended for tents. Site 05: Spacious and level, with river access....
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Accessibility Features
Mixed feedback. Level sites and close proximity to restrooms praised, but poor accessibility to fishing areas and occasional maintenance issues noted.
Based on 169 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. Some reviews mention dog owners not cleaning up after their pets, leading to unpleasant odors and hygiene concerns.
Based on 169 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025