Visit one of Kentucky’s Lakes, Beaches or Waterfalls!

The Bluegrass State offers an oasis from everyday life with relaxing lakes, beaches, waterfalls and more.

With miles of shorelines and beaches along lakes around the state and beautiful hikes to waterfalls, Kentucky offers a fun, relaxing getaway convenient to those looking for an escape that is just a roadtrip away!

Lake Cumberland near Somerset(link is external) in southern Kentucky is the nation’s number one houseboating destination, also known as the “Houseboat Capitol of the World.” Located about two hours south of Lexington, this scenic lake covers over 63,000 acres and has more than 1,200 miles of shoreline waiting for your next summer adventure! It’s an ideal spot for all types of water sports including fishing, tubing, leisure boating and jet skiing, plus camping, hiking and more. The Lake Cumberland State Resort Park(link is external), surrounded on three sides by the lake, offers a gorgeous panoramic view and a relaxing stay.

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area(link is external) (LBL) in western Kentucky, a 170,000-acre wooded peninsula surrounded by Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley(link is external), showcases some of the most beautiful beach and water views in the state. Paddle or kayak through the waterways, fish to your heart’s content and enjoy a nature hike to catch a glimpse of the area’s abundant wildlife. Stay overnight at one of the several Kentucky Stake Parks(link is external) around LBL – the Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park(link is external) in Calvert City, Kenlake State Resort Park(link is external) in Hardin or Lake Barkley State Resort Park(link is external) in Cadiz.

Other popular lakes across the state include Green River Lake(link is external) in Campbellsville, Laurel River Lake(link is external) in London, Cave Run Lake(link is external) in Morehead and more(link is external).

The mountains of eastern Kentucky are home to some of the most gorgeous waterfalls(link is external) found anywhere in the nation. Visitors can select a trail that suits their needs and hike to a number of waterfalls. Several waterfalls(link is external), such as Dog Slaughter Falls, Princess Falls, Cumberland Falls and Eagle Falls are located within the Daniel Boone National Forest(link is external) in southern and eastern Kentucky. Known as the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls is one of the most popular and well-known attractions in the state because of the infamous and rare “moonbow” phenomenon. Yahoo Falls in McCreary County is the tallest waterfall in Kentucky at 113 feet, and can be accessed by a one mile loop trail(link is external) that takes hikers behind and to the top of the falls.

Before visiting any of Kentucky’s attractions, please check websites and social channels for the latest information related to covid-19 guidelines and closures.
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