About Kentucky Lake

Start your

EXPLORATION

Kentucky Lake
& Lake Barkley

Swimmers enjoy an evening on Kentucky Lake. Photo by Explore Kentucky Lake.

Kentucky Lake is big. Really big.

Stretching 184 miles from Kentucky Dam at Gilbertsville, Kentucky, south to Pickwick Dam in Tennessee, Kentucky Lake covers more than 160,000 acres and roughly 250 square miles. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States and the largest body of water between the Great Lakes and the Gulf of Mexico.

That size is one of the first things newcomers notice. Kentucky Lake has a much bigger feel than a typical recreational lake. In some places, the lake stretches nearly two miles across. Elsewhere, it winds through quiet coves, creek arms and wooded shorelines that feel completely different from the open water of the main lake.

The variety is a big part of what makes Kentucky Lake, Kentucky Lake.

What to Expect at Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake is a working reservoir, a major recreational lake and part of the Tennessee River system. Water levels change throughout the year, with higher levels generally maintained during the warmer recreation season and lower levels during winter.

The main lake can feel enormous, especially around Kentucky Dam and the wider portions of the reservoir. Move into the bays and coves, though, and things get much quieter.

The western shore is home to many of the area’s marinas, resorts, campgrounds and communities. Much of the eastern shoreline borders Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, giving that side of the lake a noticeably more undeveloped feel.

That means you can spend the morning cruising open water, tuck into a quiet cove for the afternoon and still be back at a marina or waterfront restaurant before dinner.

Fishing Kentucky Lake

Fishing has been part of Kentucky Lake’s identity for generations.

Largemouth bass are a popular target throughout much of the year, while crappie fishing draws anglers especially during the spring. Bluegill and redear sunfish are favorites when the weather warms, and catfish, yellow bass and several other species give anglers plenty of options.

Kentucky Lake is a lot of water to figure out, particularly if it is your first visit. Local fishing guides can help newcomers learn seasonal patterns, productive areas and how fish move throughout the lake.

Fishing at Kentucky Dam. Photo by Explore Kentucky Lake

Boating Kentucky Lake

If you came here to be on the water, you have plenty of room to work with.

Kentucky Lake is popular with everything from fishing boats and pontoons to cruisers, personal watercraft and houseboats. The lake is also part of the Great Loop, the well-known recreational boating route that circles much of the eastern United States.

Numerous marinas and boat ramps provide access around the lake, and boat rentals are available from several area marinas.

Because of Kentucky Lake’s size, conditions can vary considerably from one part of the lake to another. Open stretches can become rough when the wind picks up, while protected bays may remain relatively calm. Checking the forecast and lake conditions before heading out is always a good idea.

Staying at Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake has been a vacation destination for decades, and lodging around the lake reflects that.

You’ll find traditional lakefront resorts, cabins and cottages, campgrounds, vacation rentals and hotels and motels. Some sit directly on the water with docks and lake access, while others are located in nearby communities within an easy drive of the lake.

For many visitors, where they stay depends on what they plan to do. Anglers may want quick access to a boat ramp or marina. Families might prefer a resort or rental with plenty of room to spread out. Campers can choose from private campgrounds, state parks and recreation areas around the lake.

How Kentucky Lake Was Created

Kentucky Lake exists because of Kentucky Dam, which was built by the Tennessee Valley Authority across the Tennessee River at Gilbertsville.

Construction began in 1938, and the dam was completed in 1944. When the gates closed, the Tennessee River gradually rose behind the dam, creating the reservoir we know today as Kentucky Lake.

The project dramatically changed the landscape. Roads, railroads, farms and communities were relocated as water covered the former river valley.

Kentucky Dam remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region and, at more than 8,400 feet long, is the longest dam in the TVA system.

Kentucky Lake FAQs

How big is Kentucky Lake?

Kentucky Lake covers approximately 160,000 acres, or about 250 square miles, with more than 2,000 miles of shoreline.

How long is Kentucky Lake?

Kentucky Lake stretches approximately 184 miles from Kentucky Dam at Gilbertsville, Kentucky, to Pickwick Dam in Tennessee.

How wide is Kentucky Lake?

The width varies considerably, but Kentucky Lake approaches two miles across in some of its widest sections.

How deep is Kentucky Lake?

Depth varies throughout the reservoir. The old Tennessee River channel is considerably deeper than many of the surrounding flats, bays and coves, with depths exceeding 70 feet in some areas near Kentucky Dam.

When was Kentucky Lake created?

Construction of Kentucky Dam began in 1938. The dam was completed and began impounding the Tennessee River in 1944.

Is Kentucky Lake natural?

No. Kentucky Lake is a man-made reservoir created by the damming of the Tennessee River.

What is Kentucky Lake known for?

Kentucky Lake is best known for boating, fishing, lakefront vacations and its enormous size. It is also closely connected to Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, which borders much of the lake’s eastern shoreline.