Dale Hollow Lake

Northern Tennessee & Southern Kentucky, USA

Dale Hollow Lake, straddling the border of Tennessee and Kentucky, is one of the clearest and most scenic reservoirs in the region.

27,700 acres

Surface Area

130 ft

Max Depth

620+ miles

Shoreline

1943

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About Dale Hollow Lake

Created in 1943 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of Dale Hollow Dam on the Obey River, Dale Hollow Lake covers more than 27,000 acres of water and boasts over 620 miles of pristine shoreline. Its deep, clear waters are not only visually stunning but also provide an ideal environment for a variety of fish species, most famously the world-record smallmouth bass caught here in 1955.

The lake is surrounded by natural beauty, including protected lands, state parks, and wildlife management areas, making it an attractive year-round spot for visitors. In addition to boating, swimming, and fishing, the lake area is home to camping grounds, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, Dale Hollow Lake is a balance of serene nature and recreational excitement.

Key Features

Swimming Areas

Boating & Water Sports

Fishing (Diverse Species)

Marinas & Boat Services

Dale Hollow Lake State Park

Picnic Areas & Outdoor Leisure

Minimal Water Level Fluctuation

Wildlife Viewing

Quick facts (at-a-glance)

Location: Northern Tennessee & Southern Kentucky
Surface Area: 27,700 acres of water
Shoreline: 620+ miles
Created By: Dale Hollow Dam on the Obey River
World Record Fish: Smallmouth bass, 11 lbs 15 oz (1955)
Average Depth: 60–70 feet, with some areas exceeding 130 feet
Elevation: ~651 feet above sea level
Average Summer Temperature: ~85°F (29°C)

Dale Hollow Lake Vacation Homes For Rent

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Dale Hollow Lake EVENT GUIDE

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Dale Hollow Lake DINING GUIDE

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What you can do there

Boating & Water Sports: With calm open waters and multiple marinas, the lake is ideal for houseboating, sailing, kayaking, and waterskiing.

Fishing: Dale Hollow is legendary among anglers, offering trophy smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. It’s considered one of the best bass fishing lakes in the U.S.

Swimming: Designated swim areas and sandy beaches allow for safe and family-friendly swimming.

Hiking & Camping: Campgrounds around the lake and in nearby state parks give outdoor lovers plenty of choices for overnight stays. Scenic trails provide hiking opportunities with views of the lake.

Wildlife & Birding: The surrounding protected lands are home to deer, wild turkeys, eagles, and many migratory bird species.

Access, marinas & ramps

Public Access Points: Multiple public boat ramps are located around the lake, including Obey River, Willow Grove, and Holly Creek.

Marinas: Full-service marinas such as Sunset Marina, Horse Creek, and East Port Marina offer boat rentals, fuel, supplies, and houseboat services.

Parking & Facilities: Many access points include large parking areas, picnic shelters, and restrooms for visitor convenience.

Accessibility: Paved roads and clear signage make reaching the lake simple from nearby towns like Byrdstown, Celina, and Livingston.

Safety & regulations

Fishing Licenses: Anglers must carry a valid Tennessee or Kentucky fishing license, depending on their location on the lake. Reciprocal agreements exist for certain areas.
Boating Rules: All vessels must carry required safety gear such as life jackets, and children under 12 must wear a PFD at all times while on a boat.
Water Safety: Swimming is only recommended in designated areas; boat traffic can be heavy in open water.
Speed & Wake Zones: Marinas and certain coves enforce no-wake rules to protect swimmers and docked boats.
Wildlife Protection: Hunting and fishing regulations are strictly enforced in surrounding wildlife areas.

Gallery

Nearby highlights & suggested day trips

Dale Hollow Lake State Park (KY): Offers golf, trails, and campgrounds overlooking the lake.
Standing Stone State Park (TN): Just a short drive away, known for hiking trails and natural beauty.
Historic Celina, TN: Visit for local shops, dining, and regional history.
Cumberland River Scenic Byway: A beautiful drive with scenic overlooks and cultural landmarks.

Events & community

Dale Hollow Lake is the centerpiece of a vibrant recreational community, with fishing tournaments, houseboat rallies, and seasonal festivals drawing visitors throughout the year. Local marinas often host live music, holiday events, and family-friendly gatherings, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists. The area has a strong boating and fishing culture, with many repeat visitors returning year after year.