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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.
Things to do nearby
Barren River LakeBarren River
Best For
AnglersHikersWildlife watchersFamilies
Site Types
TentRV
Amenities
Fire Rings
Picnic Tables
Flush Toilets
Drinking Water
Dump Station
Electric Hookups
Camp Host
Fishing
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Season
May through October
Max/site
6 people
Known Issues
Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.
Cancellation Policy
Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Tailwater cost per night?+
Tailwater costs $30–$50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.
What season is Tailwater open?+
Tailwater is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.
Does Tailwater have hookups?+
No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.
What is the maximum RV length at Tailwater?+
Tailwater can accommodate RVs up to 115 feet long.
How do I make reservations at Tailwater?+
Tailwater is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.
How far is Tailwater from the nearest town?+
Tailwater is located in Scottsville, KY. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.
Own a campground nearby?
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