BOATING KENTUCKY LAKE / LAKE BARKLEY
Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Bluegrass State, the dynamic duo of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley beckons boating enthusiasts to embark on an extraordinary aquatic adventure. Covering a vast expanse of 160,300 acres and 58,000 acres respectively, these lakes collectively form one of the most enticing boating destinations in the Eastern United States.
Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley offer a diverse range of boating experiences, catering to everyone from casual cruisers to avid anglers. The lakes region has many free easy access boat ramps. With its expansive waters, visitors can explore a myriad of bays, coves, and inlets, each offering a unique perspective of the lake’s beauty.
Kentucky Lake Boat Ramps
- Kenlake Marina
- Cherokee State Park
- Jonathan Creek (US 68)
- Jonathan Creek (ST Route 402)
- Twin Lakes Campground
- Pisgah Point Camping Area
- Birmingham Ferry Campground
- Smith Bay Campground
- Sugar Bay Campground
- Fenton Campground
- Redd Hollow Campground
- End of FS road #172 (Jones Creek)
- Ginger Bay Camping Area
- Boswell Landing Campground
- Gray’s Landing Campground
Lake Barkley Boat Ramps
- Nickell Branch Campground
- Demumbers Bay Camping Area
- Eddyville Ferry at the end of Old Ferry Road (FS road #117)
- Cravens Bay Campground (2 ramps)
- Honker Bay (FS road #135)
- Taylor Bay Campground
- Energy Dam-Inland lake
- Devil’s Elbow Day-Use Area
- Fords Bay (FS road #347)
- Neville Bay Camping Area
- Gatlin Point Campground
Fishing Haven:
Both Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley have earned their reputation as angler’s paradises. With an abundance of crappie, bass, catfish, and more, fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines into these nutrient-rich waters. From dawn to dusk, the lakes offer prime opportunities for a memorable day on the boat, with the prospect of reeling in the catch of a lifetime.
Scenic Cruises:
The combined beauty of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley provides a breathtaking backdrop for leisurely cruises. Boaters can navigate through serene coves, taking in the lush greenery and rolling hills that surround these twin lakes. As the sun sets, the waters reflect a myriad of warm hues, creating a perfect setting for a romantic evening or a tranquil family outing.
Water Sports and Recreation:
Adventurous spirits can revel in an array of water sports, from high-speed skiing to the excitement of tubing and wakeboarding. Both lakes offer expansive areas for water-based activities, ensuring that everyone, from novices to seasoned enthusiasts, can find their preferred water adventure.
Marinas and Services:
Numerous marinas along the shores of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley cater to the needs of boaters. These marinas serve as hubs for boat rentals, fuel stations, and additional amenities. Boaters can also explore quaint shops and waterfront restaurants, immersing themselves in the lakeside culture and hospitality.
Boating on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley is a harmonious blend of nature’s grandeur and recreational bliss. Whether casting a line into the depths for a trophy catch, cruising along the shores amidst captivating scenery, or engaging in thrilling water sports, these lakes offer an unparalleled experience. As day turns to night and the lakes embrace a tranquil calm, boaters on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley realize they have embarked on a journey that transcends the ordinary – a journey through the soothing waters of two interconnected treasures in the heart of the Bluegrass State.
