Kentucky / Allen County

Tailwater

Open — Open year-round with seasonal amenities. Peak season with water and electric hookups at each site runs May through September. Non-peak season (October 1 through April 26) offers primitive camping only with potable water, dump station, and pit toilets available. Water and electric hookups at individual sites are turned off during non-peak season. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Tailwater Campground sits along the Barren River in south-central Kentucky, just below Barren River Lake Dam. This 48-site campground offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to other campgrounds in the area, with beautiful views of high cliffs and hills across the river. The campground operates seasonally with full amenities from late April through September, providing water and electric hookups at each site along with flush toilets and showers. During the non-peak season (October through April), the campground remains open for primitive camping with potable water, a dump station, and pit toilets available. The Barren River below the dam provides excellent fishing opportunities for catfish and hybrid striped bass, while downstream sections offer multiple bass species and sunfish. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent bald eagle sightings near the stilling basin and the permanent wildlife blind offering opportunities to spot great horned owls, woodpeckers, migrating songbirds, and river species like belted kingfishers and green herons. The Steen Bergen Nature Trail winds through the surrounding woods for hiking and wildlife observation. The campground features an amphitheater, playground, beach volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and an open field for sports. Additional recreation facilities at the nearby stilling basin area include picnic sites, a reservable pavilion, playground, and basketball court. The lake's shoreline is less than a mile away for swimming and boating, and the Port Oliver Recreation Area is just across the dam. Tailwater Campground hosts the annual Barren River Lake Scout Celebration each August, bringing scouts from surrounding states for a weekend of competition and skill demonstrations.

Directions

From Glasgow, KY: Take US-31E south for 4 miles, turn right on KY-252 which crosses the dam in 8 miles. The Tailwater entrance road is at the south end of the dam. Follow signs into the recreation area. Approximately 19 miles from Bowling Green, KY.

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