Minnesota might be known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but Kentucky is the South’s very own lake country. Home to 45 lakes, 13 major rivers and reservoirs, and countless smaller streams, creeks, and brooks, you can pretty much point to any place on a map and you’ll be on, or near, one of these beautiful bodies of water in KY. There are some, however, that require a bit more effort and planning to access. But as the saying goes, all good things require effort, and believe us when we say that this one is well worth seeking out. Of all the natural lakes in Kentucky, we adore this one the most.

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Have you been to this remote lake in Kentucky before? What other natural lakes in Kentucky would you recommend? If you have any tips and tricks for making visiting extra special, we’d love to hear them in the comments. Since Cave Run Lake is a bit remote, you might want to spend a night or two at a vacation rental in the region.

For more information on planning a visit be sure to check out the official Forest Service website. If you’re curious to see more of this jaw-dropping, breathtakingly beautiful lake in Kentucky, you’re in luck! Photographer Ben Childers took this amazing video footage of Cave Run Lake that highlights just how special and beautiful this Kentucky lake truly is:

Have you ever seen anything so beautiful? The Bluegrass State truly is such a stunning and sublime place.

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Natural Lakes in Kentucky

What are the most beautiful lakes in Kentucky?

The most beautiful lakes in Kentucky can be found in every corner of the state. Some great ones to visit first include:

  • Kentucky Lake: Formed by the completion of the Kentucky Dam, this body of water harnesses history and beauty. Known as the South's very own Great Lake, Kentucky Lake is the largest artificial lake by surface area in the U.S. east of the Mississippi River.
  • Lake Barkley: This lake is absolutely pristine. The body of water runs parallel to the Land Between The Lakes.
  • Barren River Lake: Don't be deterred by its name; Barren River Lake is anything but desolate! Located near Kentucky's famous cave area, it is truly a water lover's paradise surrounded by trees and rolling hills.
  • Lake Cumberland: Adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest, visitors get the best of both lakes and nature at this beauty.
  • Buckhorn Lake: Tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains, this lake is the perfect escape for those wanting a more secluded water getaway at one of Kentucky's amazing state parks.
  • Dale Hollow Lake: One of the cleanest and most pristine lakes in the state, this more wilderness-flocked area is a great getaway on Kentucky's southern shorelines. You might even spot some bald eagles.
  • Dewey Lake: One of the clearest and cleanest lakes in Kentucky, you'll find Dewey Lake at the always-lovely Jenny Wiley State Resort Park.

 

Which state parks should I visit in Kentucky?

You should visit as many state parks in Kentucky as you possibly can. A few great options to start with include:

 

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