Natural swimming hole
Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake)
Lake · Tennessee
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Hillman Ferry Campground in Land Between the Lakes sits on the eastern shore of Kentucky Lake with a swim beach in a protected cove. The 170,000-acre national recreation area offers one of the most natural lake-swimming settings in Tennessee, backed by undeveloped forest. It pairs a beach day with the area's bison prairie, planetarium, and 300 miles of trails.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | Warm in summer |
| Depth | Swim beach in a protected cove |
| Best season | Late spring through early fall |
| Fees | Day-use fee; camping fees apply |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | Day-use lot at Hillman Ferry |
| Amenities | Swim beach, Campground, Picnic areas, Restrooms, Boat ramp, Trails |
| County | Stewart |
| Nearest town | Dover |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards; large lake with boat traffic. |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake)?
Yes — Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake) is listed as a natural swimming spot in Tennessee. Reported water temperature: Warm in summer. Heads-up: No lifeguards; large lake with boat traffic.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake)?
Reported fee info: Day-use fee; camping fees apply. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Land Between the Lakes (Hillman Ferry, Kentucky Lake)?
The best season is typically Late spring through early fall.