Straddling the Kentucky-Tennessee border in Clinton, Cumberland, Overton, and Pickett counties, Dale Hollow Lake is a 27,700-acre reservoir known for its peaceful setting, world-class fishing, and crystal-clear water.
Roughly two hours northeast of Nashville, Dale Hollow Lake offers a rare escape from the hustle and bustle of other popular lakes. Here, glassy waters reflect the surrounding forest and a quiet, undeveloped shoreline. And, according to Only In Kentucky, “come summertime you will typically find water so clear that you can see your feet while swimming around.”
Formed by the damming of the Obey River in 1943, Dale Hollow Lake is one of Kentucky’s oldest artificial lakes and among the first built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Today, it offers a wide variety of recreation opportunities, including some of the best bass fishing, scuba diving, and swimming in the South.
What To Do
Fish
Dale Hollow’s thriving ecosystem produces trophy smallmouth alongside a healthy population of largemouth and spotted bass, crappie, muskie, bluegill, and stocked brown trout. The lake’s quiet coves and clear water also offer some of the South’s finest (and most underrated) fishing opportunities for fly anglers.
Scuba Dive
Dale Hollow Lake is one of the cleanest lakes around, which makes it an ideal spot for scuba divers. The creation of the lake in 1943 submerged the town of Willow Grove, so it hides many unique artifacts—like the foundations of an old school house and barn—for scuba divers to explore.
Boat
The lake is a haven for houseboaters, paddlers, and swimmers. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park and nearby marinas offer rentals of fishing boats, houseboats, pontoon boats, jet skis, and more.
Experience Nature
Visit nearby trails for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. According to Tennessee Watchable Wildlife, the lake is a haven for bald eagles, and boasts the second-highest concentration of the birds in the state.
Camp
Whether you have a tent or an RV, Dale Hollow Lake has plenty of spots for camping. Check out Dale Hollow Dam Campground, Dale Hollow State Park Campground, Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park for availability.
Where To Eat
Stop at Sunset Marina & Resort for a bite on the floating restaurant and feed the turtles at the habitat near your table. Mike’s Landing Restaurant offers outdoor seating with views of the lake and the stage for live music. Just west of Dale Hollow Lake is the small Tennessee town of Celina. Here you can find a variety of old-fashioned diners and cafes. On the east side, the Tennessee towns of Allons and Livingston offer the most dining options.
Read the original article on Southern Living