Campground

Facilities

Each site has water hook ups and electric available during the months of May through September. Primitive camping is available during the non-peak season with a dump station, potable water, and pit toilets offered during that time. The campground has an amphitheater, playground, beach volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and an open field for sports like softball or a fun game of tag. Other amenities just outside the campground at the stilling basin recreation area include: picnic sites, a pavilion available for reserving, playground, and basketball court.

Natural Features

Beautiful views of high cliffs and hills are on the other side of the river. Frequently you will see a bald eagle perched waiting for a fish to surface from the stilling basin's discharge. The surrounding woods are a quiet retreat and an opportunity for wildlife viewing at the permanent wildlife blind.

Recreation

The Tailwater provides a great location when fishing for catfish or hybrid striped bass, and downstream provides an opportunity to catch several different species of bass, as well as a variety of sunfishes. Try hiking the Steen Bergen Nature Trail for a chance to spot resident great horned owls, a variety of woodpeckers, migrating songbirds, or a family of chipmunks. The river offers a chance to see belted kingfishers, green herons, or maybe even an otter dining on an afternoon snack.

Recreation Sites

  • Standard Electric
  • Group Standard Nonelectric
  • Overnight

Activities

  • Day Use Area
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Camping

Amenities

  • Amphitheater
  • Boat Ramp
  • Drinking Water
  • Dump Station
  • Flush Toilets
  • Group Camping
  • Horseshoe Pit
  • Parking Area
  • Pit Toilets
  • Playground
  • Showers
  • Trash Collection
  • Volleyball Courts
  • Picnic Table
  • Water Hookup
  • Electricity Hookup
  • Fire Pit
  • BBQ
  • Accessibility
  • Accessible Occupant Message

Nearby Attractions

The lake's shoreline is less than a mile away for swimming and boating activities. The premier recreation area, Port Oliver, is just across the dam and Quarry Road Recreation Area offers a reservable pavilion, fishing piers, playground, flush toilets, swimming area with beach, and a variety of picnic sites.

Stop and visit Barren River Lake State Resort Park, host of the Glasgow Highland Games. Peninsula Marina is less than five miles away. Good day trips to other local area attractions include: the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Down Under, and Diamond Caverns. There are several other family attractions within the Glasgow, Bowling Green, and Cave City region and visitors can explore Mammoth Cave National Park, an hour north of the campground.

Getting Here

Latitude
36° 53' 39.9998" N
Longitude
86° 7' 59.0002" W

From 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.

Need to Know

  • Firewood restrictions are in effect. Due to the spread of invasive insects and disease, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect our forests by purchasing or collecting firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Click here for more information.
  • Off-highway vehicles are not permitted
  • A fee is charged for day visitors
  • Boats must meet all Kentucky boating laws and regulations.

  • Non-Peak Season Camping is Primitive Only (Dump Station & Potable Water are Available).

    • Contact Information

    1055 Tailwater Road
    Scottsville, KY 42164

    For campground inquiries, please call: 270-622-7732

    Additional Information