Across the Bluegrass State, Kentucky has an array of stunning lakes, each offering its own unique charm and a blend of tranquility and adventure. If you’ve been renting an apartment in Knoxville or own a home in Louisville and are looking for an escape to nature, you’re in the right place.
At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of the best lakes in Kentucky to live on this year. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant community around Barren River Lake or the quaint and peaceful Lake Barkley, there’s a lakeside home waiting for you. Dive into our list to discover the right Kentucky lake town for you.
1. Barren River Lake (Glasgow)
Nearest city: Glasgow, KY
Median home sale price: $214,900
Population: 14,500
Homes for sale in Glasgow, KY
Apartments for rent in Glasgow, KY
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Barren River Lake offers a serene escape for those looking to connect with nature. This expansive body of water is amazing for anglers, boaters, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Surrounding the lake, you’ll find several parks like Barren River Lake State Park, that provide ample opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and bird watching. Glasgow, the nearest city, is a short drive away, offering a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including the South Central Kentucky Cultural Center. The community around Barren River Lake has a welcoming atmosphere and an array of outdoor activities available throughout the year.
2. Green River Lake (Campbellsville)
Nearest city: Campbellsville, KY
Median home sale price: $167,500
Population: 12,000
Homes for sale in Campbellsville, KY
Apartments for rent in Campbellsville, KY
Green River Lake is a gem in Kentucky’s landscape, offering a wide range of recreational activities and beautiful forest views. The lake is renowned for its clear waters, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Green River Lake State Park, adjacent to the lake, features trails for hiking and spaces for picnics. Campbellsville, the nearby city, enriches the experience with its local charm, historic sites, and community events. This area is a blend of natural beauty and small-town hospitality, making it a great location for those looking for a lake in Kentucky to live on.
3. Herrington Lake (Burgin)
Nearest city: Burgin, KY
Median home sale price: $265,000
Population: 1,000
Homes for sale in Burgin, KY
Apartments for rent in Burgin, KY
As the deepest lake in Kentucky, Herrington Lake offers exceptional conditions for boating, water skiing, and fishing. The lake’s surroundings are dotted with cozy cabins and luxurious homes, making it a great place for those looking to buy lakeside property. Burgin is the nearest village, with a population of just around 1,000. The town is full of charm, with local eateries and shops that reflect the unique culture of the area.
4. Lake Cumberland (Somerset)
Nearest city: Somerset, KY
Median home sale price: $210,000
Population: 15,000
Homes for sale in Somerset, KY
Apartments for rent in Somerset, KY
Lake Cumberland is synonymous with adventure and relaxation with 1,225 miles of shoreline and 60,000 acres of water. This vast lake is a hotspot for house boating, fishing, and water sports, drawing visitors from all over. The surrounding area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with numerous hiking trails and scenic overlooks. There are plenty of small communities around the lake, but the nearest city is Somerset. This area has a blend of events, shopping, and dining options, making it a great lake town in Kentucky to move to.
5-6. Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake (Grand Rivers)
Nearest city: Grand Rivers, KY
Median home sale price: $137,000
Population: 380
Homes for sale in Grand Rivers, KY
Apartments for rent in Grand Rivers, KY
The twin jewels of Kentucky, Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, are united by the small but lively town of Grand Rivers. Known for their vast expanses of water, these lakes offer unparalleled opportunities for fishing, sailing, and water sports. The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area provides endless outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing and camping. Grand Rivers, though a small community, is big in hospitality, featuring unique dining experiences and the famous “Grand Rivers Variety” entertainment. This area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with the benefits of lake living and outdoor recreation.
7. Laurel River Lake (Corbin)
Nearest city: Corbin, KY
Median home sale price: $204,000
Population: 7,300
Homes for sale in Corbin, KY
Apartments for rent in Corbin, KY
The last spot on our list of lakes in Kentucky to live on is Laurel River Lake. With its crystal-clear waters and secluded coves, is a paradise for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure. The lake is surrounded by the lush Daniel Boone National Forest, offering spectacular scenery and a multitude of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and boating. Corbin is the nearest city and is home to the original Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant, adding a unique history to the area. Living near Laurel River Lake means having the best of nature’s beauty and a lively community close by.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Kentucky. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during April 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com April 2024. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
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