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Cave Run Dam Tailwater
Public Campground

Cave Run Dam Tailwater

Slade, Kentucky
4.7 (423 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Cave Run Dam Tailwater

Federal campground in Kentucky.

Cave Run Dam Tailwater offers a exceptional camping experience in the heart of eastern Kentucky's beautiful Daniel Boone National Forest region. Situated along the scenic tailwaters below Cave Run Dam, this public campground provides the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore one of Kentucky's most pristine natural areas.

The campground's location along the tailwater creates a unique ecosystem that attracts anglers from across the region. The cool, clear waters flowing from the dam below create ideal conditions for musky and striped bass fishing, making this destination particularly popular with serious fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're casting from the bank or launching your boat, the tailwater section offers excellent opportunities to land impressive catches while surrounded by forested beauty.

Beyond fishing, the surrounding landscape provides endless recreational possibilities. The Daniel Boone National Forest offers extensive hiking trails ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging adventures through rugged terrain. Mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and nature photography are all popular activities in the area. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse species that inhabit the forest, while photographers find endless opportunities to capture the region's natural splendor, especially during spring wildflower season and fall foliage.

The area's natural beauty isn't its only draw. Cave Run Lake itself, created by the dam, is a gorgeous destination for water enthusiasts. Beyond outdoor recreation, the region offers authentic Kentucky mountain culture and history. Nearby towns provide access to local dining, shops, and services, with opportunities to experience genuine Appalachian hospitality and heritage.

The campground serves as an ideal launching point for day trips throughout the area. Visitors can explore scenic byways, visit local historical sites, or simply enjoy peaceful mornings along the water before heading out on daily adventures. The combination of excellent fishing, hiking, beautiful scenery, and proximity to natural attractions makes this tailwater destination appealing to families, couples, solo travelers, and outdoor adventure seekers of all skill levels.
4.7

Rating

423

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Slade is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Kentucky weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Slade.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Slade. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Cave Run Dam Tailwater Reviews

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Darren Esh

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Darren Esh

Can someone please keep up the Disc golf course better? This past year it was all grown up and was very nasty to play. The year before that it was beautiful and we had a lot of fun playing but it will need more clean up so please keep it up better and mow more often so it's not so tall grass. Thanks.

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Will Handley

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Will Handley

Another beautifully maintained USACE property. This is a family friendly park with picnic tables, grills, pavilions, playgrounds, disc golf course, boat launch and walking paths. There are flush toilet bathrooms and great parking for any size rig or RV. I had 2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE Roaming. Leashed dogs are welcome.

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Thomas Dickerson

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Thomas Dickerson

They must be dumping sewage in the licking river it stinks to high heaven

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Thomas Dickerson

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Thomas Dickerson

They must be dumping sewage in the licking river it stinks to high heaven

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Brittany “Sadie B.” Mabry

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Brittany “Sadie B.” Mabry

lovely park! newly-laid turf on some parts of playground, good clean sand in another part. My kids love it! The rushing waters from the dam are always nice to meditate over; but it frequently smells really, really bad near the dam’s runoff.

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Brittany “Sadie B.” Mabry

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Brittany “Sadie B.” Mabry

lovely park! newly-laid turf on some parts of playground, good clean sand in another part. My kids love it! The rushing waters from the dam are always nice to meditate over; but it frequently smells really, really bad near the dam’s runoff.

G
Paula Vaske

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Paula Vaske

Stopped by yesterday for a quick walk around the park. I enjoyed the scenery very much. I ended up finding a hiking trail. Despite the day being very wet I still enjoyed the trail. There were some great bridges built along the way.

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