Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
World Record Smallmouth Bass Lake
Dale Hollow produced the world record smallmouth bass (11 lbs 15 oz!)—crystal-clear water, full resort lodge, and excellent camping on the Kentucky-Tennessee border.
Fishing
| Species | Notes |
|---|---|
| Smallmouth bass | World record lake! |
| Walleye | Excellent numbers |
| Muskie | Trophy potential |
Is there a lodge?
Yes! Full resort with lodge rooms and restaurant overlooking the lake.
Location & Getting There
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is located in Kentucky. The park’s coordinates are 36.6444, -85.4000. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Kentucky
- Coordinates: 36.6444, -85.4000
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
Kentucky state parks are characterized by the state’s extensive waterways, rolling Bluegrass hills, and the rugged Appalachian foothills. They are renowned as “resort parks,” offering excellent amenities alongside outdoor recreation. Activities center heavily around massive recreational lakes perfect for boating, water skiing, and world-class bass fishing. Land activities include hiking forested trails, camping, golfing on championship-level park courses, horseback riding, and exploring massive underground cave networks. The parks also preserve significant Civil War and frontier pioneer history.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal. Spring (April–May) offers blooming dogwoods, excellent fishing, and comfortable hiking weather. Fall (October) brings beautiful foliage to the forested hills and perfect camping temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot and very humid, making it the primary season for lake boating and swimming. Winter is generally quiet, though the Resort Park lodges offer cozy, peaceful off-season getaways with discount rates.
Visitor Tips
Kentucky state parks do not charge a general entrance fee for day use. The system is famous for its 17 “Resort Parks” which feature full-service lodges, restaurants (often serving traditional Kentucky cuisine), and 18-hole golf courses, making them great destinations for those who prefer modern amenities over tent camping. If you plan to camp, book well in advance for summer and fall weekends. Note that some park marinas and pools operate strictly on a Memorial Day to Labor Day schedule.
Explore More Kentucky State Parks
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Kentucky. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Kentucky guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
