Closed
— Closed for the winter season. The area typically operates seasonally, with spring openings subject to water levels and weather conditions.
About
Tailwater Day Use area is located on the Nolin River below Nolin River Lake Dam and Spillway in Edmonson County, Kentucky. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility serves as a day use recreation area with amenities including restrooms, playgrounds, a boat ramp, picnic tables, and a reservable group shelter. The area provides access to the Nolin River for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
Nolin River Lake is known for its unique blue-green water and is one of Kentucky's top lakes for catfish, bass, crappie, and walleye fishing. The Nolin River flows through scenic terrain, with much of its path located within Mammoth Cave National Park boundaries, making for particularly scenic paddling trips. The 5,795-acre Nolin Lake draws more than two million visitors annually to enjoy water sports and recreation in the surrounding expanse of rolling forest.
Mammoth Cave National Park is located a short drive or ferry ride from the tailwater area. Multiple marinas around Nolin Lake, including Moutardier, Ponderosa, and Wax, offer pontoon and john boat rentals, boat slips, and supplies. The tailwater area is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District and requires compliance with Title 36 Rules and Regulations. Special event permits may be required for certain activities in addition to shelter reservations.
Directions
From Bowling Green: Follow US 31W North for 14 miles, turn left on KY 101. In 6 miles, KY 101 becomes KY 259 North. Follow KY 259 North for 11 miles, turn right on KY 728 for 2 miles. Follow signs to Nolin Tailwater. From Louisville: Take I-65 south to exit 91, follow Western Kentucky Pkwy for 30 miles to exit 107 for KY-259. Turn left on KY 259 South for 17 miles, then left on KY 728 for 2 miles. Follow signs to Nolin Tailwater.
Nearby Campgrounds
