Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park – Kentucky’s Premier Lake & Adventure Destination
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park Photo
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park Photo 2
Location
5970 State Park Rd., Burkesville, KY 42717
Top Five Things to Do
- Play 18 holes on the nationally ranked golf course.
- Hike to the Eagle Point Overlook.
- Dine at Island View Restaurant & Bar.
- Launch from the boat ramp for fishing or recreation.
- Experience a cozy cottage or explore the equestrian trail.
Lodging & Camping
The Mary Ray Oaken Lodge, built of limestone and massive timbers, sits high atop a bluff overlooking the 28,000‑acre lake and surrounding woodlands. The 60 guest rooms feature private balconies and patios with cliffside views. Rooms are pet‑friendly and available late in the afternoon; check‑out is 11:00 a.m. Dale Hollow’s cottages are not pet‑friendly.
Out of 145 campsites, 24 are reserved for campers, and horses are welcome. Cabins with bunk beds and AC are available for those without tents or RVs. Wi‑Fi is not provided in the campground.
Restaurant Hours (to‑go orders available Friday, 8/27 until further notice)
- Breakfast: 6:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
- Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Dinner: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Meetings & Events
Located on Kentucky’s southern border, the park offers pristine wilderness ideal for conferences, weddings, and retreats. Learn more about hosting a group or wedding.
Activities
Basketball
Courts are at the campground entrance and picnic area. Overnight guests may check out equipment at the lodge front desk.
Biking
With 3,400 acres of trails, bring your own mountain bike to explore approved routes.
Birding
Year‑round residents include Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Bobwhite, and Wild Turkey. Summer visitors add Green Heron, Indigo Bunting, and Scarlet Tanager. Migrants such as Ring‑Necked Duck and American Redstart are common. The Eagle Point Trail and Boom Ridge‑Eagle Point Connector Trail offer prime viewing opportunities.
Boating
Enjoy ample cruising waters dotted with islands. The marina, completed in 2008, offers nearly 200 slips, a ship’s store, and fuel dock. Boats may be rented daily; open year‑round for a fee. Call (270) 433‑6600 for details.
Caving
Explore Cindy Cave on a guided tour (Memorial Day to Labor Day) for $7 per adult, $5 per child under 8. Helmets, lights, and kneepads are provided. Winter tours for groups of three or more can be arranged by contacting Coti Groce.
Eagle Watching
December to February offers the best eagle‑sighting opportunities.
Fishing
All year long, the lake yields crappie, bream, muskie, walleye, trout, catfish, and five bass species, including world‑record smallmouth bass and state‑record muskie. A Kentucky fishing license is required; purchase online. Ask at the lodge desk about the free equipment loaner program.
Golf
The 18‑hole course plays across rolling terrain and features a pro shop, driving range, and club rentals. More information.
Hiking
Over 15 miles of multi‑purpose trails are open for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Trails follow old logging roads and ridge tops, offering scenic ridge‑tip views.
Horseback Riding
Enjoy 15 miles of trails designed for equestrian use. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Miniature Golf
The nautical‑themed 18‑hole course is ADA‑accessible and reopens Memorial Day weekend. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Sun‑Thu), 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Fri‑Sat). $6/adult, $4/child (5‑11); free for 4 & under.
Motorcycle Ride Trail
Start your ride at the park and enjoy scenic roads in the Cumberland Valley.
Picnicking
Grills are at all campsites and primitive cabins. A picnic shelter with restrooms and a playground is available for rent up to three years in advance. Additional tables and a grill are near the Cindy Cave parking area.
Playgrounds
Playgrounds are located near the lodge, in the picnic area, and in the campground (open mid‑November to mid‑March).
Swimming
Outdoor lodge pool features a sloped entrance, separate wading pool, and wheelchair lift for ADA access. Campers may swim in the community pool for free.
