Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping
3.97115 reviewsResource Managers Office, Dale Hollow Lake, 540 Dale Hollow Dam Road, Celina, TN 38551
Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping
$0.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites are free. Tent-only nonelectric, boat-in, and equestrian sites have a daily rate of $5. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Dale Hollow Lake, where 32 pristine locations offer 70 family campsites scattered along 620 miles of stunning shoreline spanning Tennessee and Kentucky. These remote havens, mostly accessible only by boat, promise an authentic back-to-nature experience where the modern world fades away and adventure begins. Here, rustic camping meets breathtaking solitude, with minimal services ensuring your connection with the great outdoors remains pure and uninterrupted.
Dale Hollow Lake Primitive Camping is exclusively geared toward primitive camping, offering tent-only sites and boat-accessible camping. A limited number of equestrian and drive-in sites are available.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Dale Hollow Lake, where the mighty dam completed in 1943 transformed the landscape for flood control and power generation, creating what would become one of America's most beloved outdoor destinations. Today, over 3 million visitors annually discover why this reservoir has earned legendary status, particularly among anglers chasing the lake's world-record smallmouth bass. Every cast here connects you to a legacy of trophy fishing that has made Dale Hollow a bucket-list destination for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of nature's moods at Dale Hollow Lake, where each season paints a different masterpiece. Winter brings crisp, dry air perfect for cozy campfires, while summer's warmth invites endless water activities despite occasional dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the lake. For the ultimate camping experience, visit during the glorious spring and fall months when moderate temperatures, clear skies, and gentle breezes create ideal conditions for both relaxation and exploration.
ElevationThe varied topography of Dale Hollow Lake creates diverse camping experiences across its expansive landscape, with sites nestled at different heights throughout the rolling terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a paradise of crystal-clear waters so pure you can see deep into their emerald depths, all framed by densely forested hillsides that burst with color each season. From late fall through early spring, witness one of nature's most spectacular shows as Dale Hollow becomes home to the second-largest population of wintering eagles in Tennessee and Kentucky. These majestic birds soar above the pristine waters, adding an unforgettable dimension to your camping experience.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient Cumberland River Basin, Dale Hollow Lake showcases nature's artistry where rolling hills meet sapphire waters in perfect harmony. This geological wonderland, sculpted by time and enhanced by human engineering, features dramatic valleys and ridges clothed in dense forests that create a photographer's dream. The interplay of water and land has crafted countless hidden coves and scenic vistas, making every paddle stroke or hiking step a journey through one of the Southeast's most stunning landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is limited due to the remote nature of most sites. Wheelchair users might find challenges based on user accounts such as, 'Wheelchair users might want to start at that end and know that the path is very bumpy in spots due to root under the pavement.'
Sites SizeThe sizes of campsites vary but are generally suitable for tent camping. Some areas have steep inclines or limited flat ground.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ, with some sites offering secluded experiences while others are subjected to noise and overcrowding from fellow campers and day visitors.
Total Campsites70 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve sites in advance to avoid conflicts with squatters. Avoid sites prone to noise from locals and boat activity.
Best CampsitesPopular sites include Phillips Island for its scenic beauty and Sherman Hollow for tent setups and family-friendly space.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to a 14-day stay within a 30-consecutive day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed across 620 miles of shoreline, with some accessible only by boat and others by vehicle.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: January 1st to December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable, but details on walk-up availability are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 service fee. Late cancellations include forfeiting the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations made locally at the lake. No-shows are penalized with a $20 fee and loss of the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Dale Hollow Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its vast lake and forested surroundings. Fishing is highlighted as a major draw, with the lake renowned for smallmouth bass fishing. Boating and water sports, such as water skiing and paddleboarding, are popular pursuits. Wildlife viewing is seasonal, with bald eagles commonly spotted from late fall to early spring. Hiking trails and horseback riding opportunities are available at select locations accessible by vehicle.
Hiking
Multiple trailheads such as Red Oak Ridge provide designated hiking opportunities, though maintenance issues like litter are noted by reviewers.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with the lake holding the world record for smallmouth bass. However, some reviewers report negative experiences due to weather conditions.Swimming
Swimming is available but not at designated swimming areas; reviews suggest informal use of lake shores for this activity.Boating
Boating is a key activity with houseboats and small watercraft commonly used to access campsites. One reviewer states, 'Houseboats are permitted to tie up nearby the area.'Wildlife viewing
Bald eagles are commonly spotted during their winter migration, and the lake environment supports diverse wildlife.Winter Activities
The lake hosts a large bald eagle population in winter, providing opportunities for birdwatching.Water Sports
Water skiing, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are restricted to designated areas only. Certified heat-treated firewood or dead/downed branches are permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsSudden changes in lake level, wildlife such as raccoons, and lack of services like water and trash disposal can pose challenges. Campers are advised to prepare for primitive conditions.
Active alertsSeasonal advisories include warnings about sudden lake level changes and lack of local staff for emergencies or maintenance.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Sheriff's Department Emergency Contacts: Clay County (931-243-3266), Overton County (931-823-5404), Pickett County (931-864-3210), Clinton County (606-387-5111), Cumberland County (270-864-4141).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st.
Trash and recyclingPack-it-in, pack-it-out policy; no centralized trash or recycling facilities available. Campsites must be cleared of all trash upon departure, but user reviews frequently note trash left behind by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are lakefront, providing direct access to Dale Hollow Lake.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as lack of maintenance for toilets, trash left by previous campers, squatters occupying reserved sites, noisy locals, and confrontational visitors.
HostNo on-site hosts. Law enforcement services are not provided, and campers are advised to contact emergency services if needed.
Campground Map
Resource Managers Office, Dale Hollow Lake, 540 Dale Hollow Dam Road, Celina, TN 38551
Driving directionsCamping locations are dispersed throughout Dale Hollow Lake. Reference primitive camping map or site details for information on how to get to the specific site. GPS Coordinates listed above is the location of the Resource Manager's Office in Celina, TN. It is NOT the location of the camping site.
Access to most sites is limited with many requiring boat transportation; a few sites like Cove Creek, Eagle Creek Ferry, Gunnel's Camp, Jones Chapel, Plank Yard, Red Oak Ridge A, and Taylors Ford provide vehicle access.Nearby places
Celina, TN: Approximately 3 miles east of Dale Hollow Dam.
Nearby supplies
Cove Creek has drinking water available, but campers are advised to bring their own water and garbage bags. Supplies, fuel, and groceries can be sourced from nearby Celina, TN.
Camper Reviews
4.0
115 reviews
Dale Hollow Lake - Primitive Camping has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarized, with many praising the natural beauty and secluded environment, while others cite poor maintenance, overcrowding, and insufficient regulation. Common complaints include unclean vault toilets, trash left by previous campers, and lack of enforcement for campsite reservations.
Review Summaries
Based on 115 reviews
What Campers Love
The lake's pristine views and fishing opportunities are frequently praised. One user notes, 'Absolutely beautiful spot right on the water!'
Based on 115 reviewsCommon Concerns
Trash and maintenance issues dominate negative feedback. Several reviews highlight problems like 'broken glass bottles scattered around the main camping area' and 'pit toilets that haven't been...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample drinking water, trash bags, and camping supplies due to the lack of amenities. Secure food to avoid raccoon interference. Use GPS coordinates to locate campsites.
Based on 115 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter camping is suitable for bald eagle watching but involves colder temperatures. Summer is popular for water activities but can be crowded with day visitors.
Based on 115 reviewsCamper Quotes
Many users emphasize the need for preparation due to the primitive nature of the campground. Quotes like 'Pack your food in totes and put inside at night' highlight common challenges.
Based on 115 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Some sites like Phillip's Island and Cove Creek are frequently noted for their beauty but suffer from maintenance and overcrowding issues. User reviews identify specific sites with problems,...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground's primitive nature limits accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Wheelchair users may face challenges navigating paths with uneven terrain.
Based on 115 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews lack specific details about pet policies, though some users report issues involving pets brought by other campers.
Based on 115 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025