When you think about lakes in Kentucky, some of the large and popular ones probably come to mind. Most know of Lake Cumberland, Kentucky Lake, Dale Hollow, and other fun-filled, beautiful spots, but the Bluegrass State is actually home to 45 major lakes. And while you may already know that Kentucky Lake is the largest in the state, can you name the deepest lake in Kentucky? Herrington Lake is located just west of Harrodsburg and earns the title of the deepest lake in Kentucky. It also comes with a lot of history, a little controversy, and natural beauty that can make this a lesser-known outdoor paradise.

Kentucky has many lakes that locals love to visit for fishing, boating, swimming, and just time in the great outdoors.
Wikipedia/SANtosito
Located right in the middle of the state, south of Lexington and east of Harrodsburg is Herrington Lake, the deepest lake in Kentucky with a maximum depth of 249 feet.
Herrington Lake is 2,335 acres large, so it's not overwhelming in size. Kentucky Lake, for comparison, is 160,309 acres.
Wikipedia/Joshinatorky
Nevertheless, Herrington Lake does earn the title as the deepest. The lake was created in 1925 thanks to the damming of the Dix River (which is also one of the most beautiful rivers in the state) to generate hydroelectric power. Kentucky Utilities, which created the lake, is still on site with offices and a power plant.

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The dam and structures that remain on the lake and Dix River are quite something and definitely worth floating under.
Facebook/LG&E and KU
This is all a source of controversy, however, as some locals believe that much more needs to be done to clean up the lake and prevent pollution. And this is important because, as we know, lakes support a wild variety of wildlife species.
The lake itself is a beautiful body of water that winds through this historic area of Kentucky.
Flickr/C Hanchey
It is ideal for kayaking, boating, and fishing. There are also residential areas right on the lake where people either live full-time or visit during the warmer months.
This aerial view shows both old and new when it comes to the lake.
Youtube/On the Road with Robert Elam
Hopefully this historic - and very deep - body of water remains an outdoor paradise for locals and visitors to enjoy as a simple, beautiful place to spend time in the Bluegrass State.

Get an aerial view of the lake with this video from On the Road with Robert Elam:

To learn more about this beautiful scenic spot, go to the Kentucky Department of Tourism website.

Had you heard of Herrington Lake? Did you know it is the deepest lake in Kentucky? If you’ve been there, tell us about it in the comments! And feel free to share any other lesser-known facts or spots around Kentucky that we can look into.

And if you’re going to be near Herrington Lake and Harrodsburg, check out this other historic site that is like walking back in time.

If you’re still in the mood for more Bluegrass State adventures, take a look at this video:

 

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More to Explore

More Kentucky Adventures

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | June 16, 2023

Where can we find other lakes in Kentucky?

  • Kentucky Lake is the largest artificial lake by surface area in the U.S. east of the Mississippi River.
  • Lake Cumberland is located adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest and because of this offers a range of natural beauty and activities.
  • Dale Hollow Lake is regarded as one of the cleanest and most pristine lakes in the state of Kentucky.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful lakes in Kentucky.

Where can we find historic towns in Kentucky?

  • Washington was founded in the late 1700s, and in a little less than 100 years it became the second-largest community in the state.
  • Frankfort is home to some of the most charming, historically preserved buildings in the US., in addition to being the state capitol.
  • Flemingsburg has managed to maintain many of its historic homes, covered bridges, and churches since its early founding.

Read on to learn more about some of the many fascinating historic towns in Kentucky.

Where can we find scenic overlooks in Kentucky?

  • The Big Four Pedestrian Bridge in Waterfront Park in Louisville is a favorite city spot offering spectacular views of the Ohio River.
  • The Southbank Bridge in Newport provides amazing views of both the city of Newport with downtown Cincinnati, Ohio on the other side.
  • The Bernheim Forest in Clermont features a fire tower and Canopy Walk Lookout from where you can see for miles in all directions.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other amazing scenic overlooks in Kentucky.

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Herrington Lake, Kentucky, USA