Army Corps of Engineers manages this 50-site campground along the Barren River below the dam, with reservations available through the season from May to September. Sites accommodate RVs up to 115 feet with electric and water hookups, though no sewer connections are provided—campers use the dump station instead. The access road requires some attention, as Roger W. notes it's "40 minutes from 65 w trailer," and several reviewers mention rough conditions.
Multiple sites back directly to the river, offering immediate fishing access from camp. The campground sees heavy use during summer months with anglers and kayakers, while winter brings solitude and reduced rates—as low as $8 with an interagency pass when utilities are shut off. Cell service varies significantly, with Verizon providing 1-3 bars and AT&T often unavailable entirely. Sites are closely spaced on gravel pads, making the area suitable for group camping.
Port Oliver and the Twisted Oliver Trail sit directly across the road, providing hiking options within walking distance. The campground includes flush restrooms and showers during operating season, though these close in winter when only pit toilets remain available. Campers seeking additional options in the area can explore campgrounds around Barren River Recreation Area. Those preferring more developed facilities might consider Baileys Point a few miles upstream.
Description
Overview
The Tailwater Campground offers 48-sites located along the Barren River, just below the dam. This lazy riverside campground is quieter than neighboring campgrounds and seems to have a slower pace since it is set below the lake, yet close enough for easy lake access. Annually, the campground is host to the Barren River Lake Scout Celebration which began in 1995. Scouts from surrounding states converge at the Tailwater Campground to celebrate, compete, and demonstrate their skills over the weekend. This event occurs every August and is something everyone can be a part of as a participant or on looker. View a virtual tour of Barren River Lake.
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.
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.
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.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Tailwater Non-Peak Season (October 1, 2025 - April 26, 2026) Camping Season Amenities are as follows: Potable Water, Dump Station, and Garbage Bin Available. The Water & Electric at each campsite is turned off.
Location
Public CampgroundBarren River Tailwater is located in Kentucky
Directions
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.
Address
1055 Tailwater Road
Scottsville, KY 42164
Coordinates
36.8944444 N
86.1330556 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 22 min from Bowling Green, KY
- 1 hr 2 min from Elizabethtown, KY
- 1 hr 13 min from Nashville, TN
- 1 hr 35 min from Clarksville, TN
