Willow Grove Campground

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For Tennesseans seeking a refreshing getaway that combines stunning natural beauty with comfortable amenities, Willow Grove Campground on Dale Hollow Lake stands out as a premier destination. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this beloved campground in Allons offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of the Cumberland Mountains and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Dale Hollow Lake. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a family looking for outdoor fun, or someone simply craving a peaceful escape, Willow Grove Campground provides an inviting and well-maintained environment for all. This article will delve into what makes this local gem so appealing, covering its prime location, the comprehensive services it offers, its standout features, and why it’s the ideal spot for your next Tennessee adventure.

Willow Grove Campground is perfectly situated within the Willow Grove Recreation Area at 10788 Willow Grove Hwy, Allons, TN 38541, USA. This prime location places it directly on the shores of the renowned Dale Hollow Lake, a vast reservoir known for its pristine waters and exceptional fishing opportunities. For many Tennessee residents, this means a relatively straightforward and scenic drive to reach a true outdoor oasis. Access to the campground is well-managed, typically via clearly marked routes off Highway 111, offering a smooth transition from everyday life to lakeside tranquility. Its setting within the broader Dale Hollow Lake recreational area also means convenient access to the adjacent Willow Grove Marina (operated by a private concessionaire), which can provide additional services and supplies. The combination of its beautiful natural setting and accessible location makes Willow Grove Campground a practical and desirable choice for locals across Tennessee looking for an engaging outdoor experience without the hassle of overly remote travel.

Willow Grove Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is equipped with a range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These services cater to various camping styles, from RVs to tents.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground features 83 campsites, with many offering electric hookups (including 50-amp service on some sites), catering to RVs and trailers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and well-maintained flush toilets are provided, significantly enhancing the comfort level of a camping trip. Multiple shower houses are available.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is on-site for RV and trailer campers, making waste disposal easy and hygienic.
• Group Picnic Shelter: A large group picnic shelter is available, ideal for family reunions, group gatherings, or community events.
• Wi-Fi Hub: A Wi-Fi hub is provided near the registration center, allowing campers to make calls, check weather, emails, and manage reservations.
• On-site Hosts: Friendly and helpful hosts are typically available on-site to provide information about the camp and assist campers.
• Firewood Policy: Campers are generally permitted to burn certified heat-treated firewood, commercial fire logs, kiln-dried, unpainted, unstained lumber, or dead and downed branches in the area adjacent to the campsite. This helps maintain tree health and prevents the spread of bugs.
• Reservations System: Reservations can be made online via Recreation.gov, allowing campers to plan their trips up to six months in advance.

Willow Grove Campground offers a rich array of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Tennessee locals seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation.

• Family-Friendly Environment: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those camping with children.
• Direct Lake Access: Situated directly on Dale Hollow Lake, campers have easy access to the water for various activities. The lake is renowned for its clarity and is ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and watersports.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach provides a safe and enjoyable area for cooling off in the lake during warmer months.
• Recreational Amenities: Beyond the lake, the campground offers a volleyball court and a playground, providing additional activities for all ages.
• Hiking Trails: Several hiking trails snake through the dense forest surrounding the campground and along the lake shore. The 7.5-mile one-way Accordion Bluff Hiking Trail, connecting to Lillydale Campground, is particularly noted for birding and wildflower viewing.
• Exceptional Fishing: Dale Hollow Lake is globally recognized for its fishing, particularly for yielding world-record smallmouth bass. The Obey River below the dam also offers excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing.
• Scuba Diving Interest: The nearby sunken foundation of the historic Willow Grove School House is a popular and unique destination for scuba divers.
• Spacious Campsites: Campers frequently mention the good size of the camping sites, providing ample space and a degree of privacy between setups. Many sites offer lake views.
• Cleanliness: Reviewers consistently highlight the cleanliness of the campground grounds and shower houses, indicating a high standard of maintenance.
• Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff/Hosts: Camp hosts are often commended for being helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly, contributing to a positive camping experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: In late fall through early spring, American Bald Eagles can be spotted flying overhead, as Dale Hollow hosts the second-largest wintering eagle population in Tennessee and Kentucky.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Willow Grove Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Willow Grove Recreation Area, 10788 Willow Grove Hwy, Allons, TN 38541, USA

Phone: (931) 823-4285

Mobile Phone: +1 931-823-4285

For reservations and detailed site information, visit Recreation.gov. It's always a good idea to call ahead for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding specific rules or conditions like fireworks policies, which are strictly prohibited on Corps of Engineers property.

Willow Grove Campground is an exceptional choice for locals throughout Tennessee, offering an accessible and comprehensive outdoor experience that truly celebrates the state's natural beauty. Its prime location on Dale Hollow Lake provides unparalleled opportunities for water recreation, from fishing to swimming and boating, all within a reasonable driving distance for many residents. The campground's commitment to being family-friendly, coupled with its well-maintained facilities including flush toilets, electric hookups, and a dump station, ensures a comfortable and hassle-free stay. The presence of helpful camp hosts, clear rules (which, as customer reviews indicate, are important to be aware of, like the strict no-fireworks policy and approved firewood use), and diverse recreational options such as hiking trails and playgrounds, further enhance its appeal. For Tennesseans seeking a reliable, beautiful, and engaging destination for their next camping trip, whether it's a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Willow Grove Campground on Dale Hollow Lake provides a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and the welcoming spirit of the Volunteer State.

Willow Grove Campground

Willow Grove Recreation Area, 10788 Willow Grove Hwy, Allons, TN 38541, USA