Lake Cumberland: Kentucky’s Playground for Boating, Fishing, and Fun

There are lakes, and then there’s Lake Cumberland—a body of water so sprawling, so packed with adventure, that calling it a mere ‘lake’ feels like an insult. Nestled in southern Kentucky, this 65,000-acre reservoir isn’t just a place to cool off in the summer; it’s a way of life.

A Tiny Bit of History (Because We’re Not Here for a Lecture)

Lake Cumberland was created in 1952 when the Wolf Creek Dam was built on the Cumberland River.

The purpose? Flood control and hydroelectric power.

The side effect? One of the biggest and most exciting lakes in the southeastern U.S.

Today, it’s a mecca for boaters, anglers, and anyone looking to escape reality for a while.

Striper Fishing: The Main Attraction

If you’re a fisherman, striped bass (stripers) are the reason you should already be packing your gear.

Lake Cumberland is one of the best striper fishing destinations in the country.

These bad boys can grow up to 40 pounds, and if you’ve never fought a fish that strong, prepare to get humbled.

Local guides can take you right to the action, but if you’re feeling ambitious, grab some live bait, find a deep channel, and hold on tight.

Boating: Because Bigger is Better

Lake Cumberland isn’t just big—it’s BIG. 

With over 1,200 miles of shoreline, it’s one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S. That means there’s plenty of room for everyone, from pontoon floaters to adrenaline junkies on jet skis.

Houseboats are a major thing here, too—rent one with your buddies, stock up on supplies, and set sail for a floating weekend you won’t forget (or maybe you will, depending on how much bourbon is involved).

Hiking? Maybe, But Who’s Walking When You Can Boat?

Look, Lake Cumberland is mostly about the water, but if you need to stretch your legs, there are some solid hiking options nearby.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is just a short drive away, featuring the famous “Niagara of the South.”

There’s also General Burnside State Park, an island in the middle of the lake that has some short trails and golf.

But let’s be real—hiking is what you do when your boat runs out of gas.

The Verdict? Pack Your Bags

Lake Cumberland isn’t just another pretty lake—it’s an experience. 

Whether you’re chasing monster stripers, cruising the water with friends, or just soaking in that unbeatable Kentucky sunset, there’s nowhere quite like it.

So what are you waiting for? The water’s fine, the fish are biting, and the fun never stops.

See you on the lake.

Lake Cumberland isn't just about boating and fishing; it's also a hotspot for year-round events that add extra flavor to your visit. Here are some highlights to mark on your calendar:

Annual Events:

• Lake Cumberland Raft Up (August): Join one of the largest floating parties, where boats gather to create an unforgettable on-water celebration.

• Lake Cumberland Poker Run (September): Experience high-speed excitement as powerboats race across the lake, making stops to collect poker cards.

• Catch a Rainbow Kids Fishing Derby (June): A family-friendly event encouraging kids to cast their lines and enjoy a day of fishing fun.

• Lake Cumberland Bluegrass Festival (August): Tap your toes to the sounds of authentic bluegrass music performed by talented artists.

For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of events, including workshops, festivals, and more, visit the Lake Cumberland event calendar.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something happening to make your time at Lake Cumberland memorable.