Many may not realize that Kentucky is filled with countless beautiful lakes that are scattered all across our state. From picturesque little ponds to massive bodies of water, life is better in Kentucky when you’re at the lake, and there are many to choose from. You may already have a favorite waterfront destination in Kentucky, but we have one that you’ll definitely want to seek out. Paintsville Lake is beautifully situated amongst the hills and mountains of eastern Kentucky and this scenic lake and state park have so much to offer. Although it’s a bit off the beaten path and appears to be hidden within the mountains, don’t let that deter you from experiencing this lake in the Bluegrass State that’s so worth finding.

Paintsville Lake State Park is located just outside Staffordsville, Kentucky, in the eastern half of our state.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
Many call it their favorite state park, thanks to the picturesque lake that is the main feature of the area.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
When viewing the lake from the sky, it appears to be hidden within the mountains, waiting to be discovered. But in fact, many have discovered this Kentucky gem and flock to it to boat, fish, and relax.
The lake and the entire park are beautiful all year round, and the lake itself is just as picturesque up close as it is from above.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
Photo Courtesy of Toby Adkins Friend
The water is clear and serene and is ideal for any activity or adventure you can imagine. It's especially scenic with rocky cliffs and wooded hillsides surrounding its banks.
Paintsville Lake State Park includes a full-service marina, so you can enjoy a wide variety of activities alongside or on the water.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling

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Rent a fishing boat from the marina and take your pole to a peaceful spot on the lake.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
The marina also rents out pontoon boats and paddle boats for plenty of family fun. Or, bring your own kayak or paddleboard and see what hidden gems you can discover around the 1,140-acre lake.
The unique features on the lake and along the park's trails make it the perfect spot to spend a day.
Photo Courtesy of Kathy Phillips Photography
The rock formations both surround the lake and come up from beneath, adding natural beauty and mystery to this already lovely destination.
The hiking trails within the park are also worth a visit.
Flickr/Kevin Schraer
The 1.6-mile Kiwanis Trail offers plenty of scenic views of the lake and is easy enough for everyone to enjoy. Also near the park and just a short drive away, the Dawkins Line Rail Trail is an ongoing project in eastern Kentucky that is now 18 miles long and includes unique trestles and a tunnel.
Paintsville Lake is aptly named, as every photo of this gorgeous body of water is as beautiful as an artistic watercolor painting.
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
Photo Courtesy of Allen Bolling
Whether it's storming, the sun is setting, or the sun is high above this must-see lake, you should really discover this hidden lake for yourself, as it may just be the most scenic in Kentucky.

Our state park system is incredible and Paintsville Lake is definitely proof of that! Have you discovered this unique lake in the hills? What other Kentucky lakes do you love? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share your own photos from your outdoor adventures on our Kentucky Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to see them featured!

Paintsville Lake State Park is located at 1551 KY 2275, Staffordsville, KY 41256. For more information on the park, visit its website here.

And if you’d like to make a longer trip to a Kentucky State Park, check out these 17 idyllic resorts featured in a previous article here.

A big thank you to photographers Toby Adkins Friend, Allen Bolling, and Kathy Phillips for allowing us to share some of their stunning photos Paintsville Lake!

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