Obey River Day Use

Are you a proud Tennessean looking for an exceptional outdoor escape that combines the tranquility of nature with abundant recreational opportunities? The Obey River Day Use area, a prominent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility located in Byrdstown, TN, is a beloved destination that consistently earns rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Nestled on the scenic shores of Dale Hollow Lake, this area provides a fantastic setting for everything from a relaxing day at the beach to an adventurous camping trip.

Obey River Park, which encompasses the day-use area and campground, is renowned for being the largest and most visited camping area on Dale Hollow Lake. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Upper Cumberland region, with crystal-clear waters and lush forests as your backdrop. Whether you’re an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, a family looking for a perfect swimming spot, or simply someone who enjoys the peace of a well-maintained campground, Obey River Day Use has something special to offer.

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this facility is known for its dedication to providing a high-quality experience. Visitors consistently praise the park for its cleanliness, the helpfulness of the staff, and the overall welcoming atmosphere. It’s a testament to the fact that while it's a popular spot, the beauty and functionality are carefully preserved, ensuring a pleasant visit for everyone who comes to enjoy Tennessee’s great outdoors.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of Obey River Day Use, highlighting its prime location, the array of services and features available, information on potential promotions, and all the essential contact details. Discover why so many Tennesseans "love this place" and make it their go-to destination for lakeside fun and relaxation.

The Obey River Day Use area, along with the adjacent campground, is ideally situated in Byrdstown, TN 38549, USA, directly on the expansive Dale Hollow Lake. This prime location in the hills of Tennessee makes it easily accessible for residents across the state, offering a convenient escape to one of the region's most celebrated recreational lakes.

To reach Obey River Park from Byrdstown, Tennessee, simply take Highway 111 south for approximately 3 miles. After crossing the bridge, you'll make a right turn and follow the signs directly into the campground and day-use area. It's conveniently located to the left of Sunset Marina, which is also a popular landmark in the area. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for both cars and RVs.

The strategic placement of Obey River Day Use provides unparalleled access to Dale Hollow Lake’s 27,700 surface acres of water and 620 miles of pristine shoreline. This means that boat launches are readily available, and there's ample space for all water activities, from water skiing and wakeboarding to kayaking and paddleboarding. The proximity to the lake is a major draw, allowing visitors to quickly transition from land-based relaxation to aquatic adventures.

While the park offers a serene natural setting, it also benefits from its location near the small community of Byrdstown. This provides easy access to local amenities such as restaurants and essential supplies, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable stay. The balance of natural beauty and practical accessibility makes Obey River Day Use an attractive and convenient destination for locals seeking an authentic Tennessee outdoor experience.

• 123 single party campsites: Ranging from RV sites with full hookups to tent-only sites.
• Four group camping (double party) sites: Ideal for larger families or multiple groups camping together.
• Electric hookups (30 & 50 amp) at many sites: Providing power for RVs and other electrical needs.
• Drinking water: Available at various points throughout the campground for convenience.
• Flush toilets: Clean and regularly maintained restroom facilities.
• Dump station: For RV campers to properly dispose of wastewater.
• Two large group picnic shelters: Perfect for gatherings, family reunions, or larger day-use events.
• Swimming beach: The largest and most visited beach on Dale Hollow Lake, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
• Playgrounds: Providing entertainment and a safe play area for children.
• Basketball court: Offering additional recreational opportunities for active visitors.
• Fish-cleaning station: A convenient amenity for anglers.
• Laundry facilities: Available for campers during longer stays.
• Wi-Fi hub: Located near the registration center, allowing guests to stay connected, check weather, and manage reservations.

• Spacious campground: Offers ample room for various camping setups, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Largest camping area on Dale Hollow Lake: Provides a wide selection of sites and amenities.
• Renowned for fishing opportunities: Dale Hollow Lake is famous for smallmouth bass and trout fishing, including the world-record smallmouth bass.
• Excellent for boating and water skiing: With 27,700 surface acres and 620 miles of shoreline, there's plenty of space to explore.
• Clear, clean, and almost turquoise water: Dale Hollow Lake is celebrated for its pristine water quality.
• Variety of campsite types: Includes RV sites, standard gravel sites, and tent-only sites to suit different preferences.
• Family-friendly atmosphere: With playgrounds and a swimming beach, it's ideal for families with children.
• Wildlife viewing opportunities: American Bald Eagles can be spotted from late fall through early spring, and sandhill cranes during migration seasons.
• Proximity to local attractions: Near Byrdstown and Pall Mall, offering access to historic sites like the Cordell Hull Birthplace and Sergeant Alvin York Home Place, and the Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery.
• Dedicated day-use area: Perfect for those looking to enjoy the lake for a day without camping.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, Obey River Day Use participates in federal recreation pass programs and occasionally offers fee waivers for day-use activities. These are not typical commercial promotions but are designed to provide access and discounts to eligible individuals and for special occasions. Here's what Tennesseans should be aware of:

• Federal Recreation Passes:

  • The America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass series is honored here. This includes:
  • The Annual Pass ($80): Valid for a year from the month of purchase for unlimited entry to federal recreation sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees. This typically applies to day-use fees for the cardholder and occupants of a single vehicle.
  • The Senior Pass ($20 annual, $80 lifetime for those 62+): Provides significant discounts on camping fees (typically 50% off) for the pass owner at federal campgrounds, in addition to waiving day-use fees. A photo ID is required upon arrival.
  • The Access Pass (Free for those with permanent disabilities): Offers benefits similar to the Senior Pass, including camping discounts.
  • The Military Pass (Free for current U.S. military members and their dependents): Provides free entrance to federal recreation sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees. While it primarily covers day-use, it's good to present at check-in.

• Corps of Engineers Annual Day Use Pass: This specific pass can be purchased for $50 and provides unlimited day-use entry to Corps of Engineers sites nationwide for a year. It's an excellent value for locals who frequently visit Obey River Day Use or other Corps-managed areas. Digital online purchases of this pass can be exchanged for a physical hangtag at the Obey River Park campground registration center within 14 days of purchase. It is advised to contact the park directly for office hours and pass availability.

• Fee-Free Days: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may waive day-use fees on specific commemorative days throughout the year, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Juneteenth, the USACE birthday (June 16), National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day. These waivers typically apply to boat launch ramps and swimming beaches but generally do not cover camping fees.

For the most current information on fees, passes, and any special operating instructions or temporary offers, it is always best to check the official Recreation.gov website for Obey River Park or contact the park directly. This ensures you have the latest details to plan your visit efficiently.

Address: Byrdstown, TN 38549, USA (Note: Official address often listed as Obey River Park, 100 Obey Park Rd, Monroe, TN 38573 by some sources, but Byrdstown is the associated town. For best results, use "Obey River Park, Dale Hollow Lake" when searching.)

Phone: (931) 864-6209

Mobile Phone: +1 931-864-6209

Local Campground Booth Attendant: (931) 864-6388 (for specific park inquiries)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Resource Management Office: (931) 243-3136 (for broader inquiries about Dale Hollow Lake)

Reservations: www.recreation.gov or (877) 444-6777

For residents across Tennessee, the Obey River Day Use area and its accompanying campground on Dale Hollow Lake represent an outstanding opportunity for outdoor recreation and relaxation, perfectly suited for the local lifestyle. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility offers a winning combination of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and convenient access that makes it a top choice for a myriad of reasons.

One of the foremost appeals for Kentuckians is the direct and unparalleled access to Dale Hollow Lake. Known for its exceptionally clear, clean, and often turquoise waters, the lake itself is a jewel of the region. Whether your passion is fishing for world-record smallmouth bass, exhilarating water skiing, or simply enjoying a peaceful swim at the largest swimming beach on the lake, Obey River provides the ideal setting. The numerous boat launches and ample shoreline mean less time spent commuting and more time enjoying the water, a significant advantage for local lake enthusiasts.

The campground facilities themselves are a testament to quality and visitor comfort. With a variety of campsites, including those with electric and water hookups, along with clean flush toilets, showers, and a convenient dump station, Obey River Park ensures a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience. Families will particularly appreciate the playgrounds and basketball court, offering plenty of activities for children, while the large picnic shelters are perfect for family reunions or group gatherings.

Furthermore, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the park with a focus on conservation and visitor satisfaction. The consistently high ratings for cleanliness and the helpful, friendly staff underscore a commitment to maintaining a welcoming and enjoyable environment. This level of care allows locals to feel confident in a reliable and high-quality outdoor experience every time they visit.

The added benefits of being close to historical sites in nearby towns like Byrdstown and Pall Mall, as well as the fascinating Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery, mean that there are plenty of off-water activities to enhance your stay. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip to cool off at the beach or a longer camping vacation, Obey River Day Use provides a comprehensive and enriching outdoor experience right here in Tennessee. It truly is a local treasure, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility that keeps visitors returning year after year.