Lake with Pine Trees

Lake Barkley Vacation Rentals

Lake Barkley

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Lake Barkley
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Why Rent On Lake Barkley

Lake Barkley, a expansive waterway in western Kentucky, offers a diverse array of experiences tailored for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers. Connected to Kentucky Lake by a canal, Lake Barkley is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water sports. Venture River Water Park, with its wave pool, numerous slides, and cabana rentals, is a must-visit for families looking to splash and play.

For those who crave the outdoors, the Lake Barkley area boasts extensive trails for hiking and biking, as well as golf courses that challenge and delight. Nearby, the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area provides a vast natural playground with attractions like the Woodlands Nature Station, the Elk & Bison Prairie, and the Golden Pond Planetarium.

History and culture are also within reach, with the 1850s Homeplace offering a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re looking to reel in bass, hike through forests, or simply enjoy a serene campfire, Lake Barkley and its surroundings are a perfect destination for an action-packed and rejuvenating vacation.

Best time to go
As summer softly cedes to autumn, late September unveils Lake Barkley at its finest. Sun-dappled shores beckon, embracing tranquil fishing expeditions and invigorating kayaking. Witness the vibrant foliage transform, while the lingering warmth ensures blissfully fewer tourists and serene sunsets.
Water Quality
Lake Barkley exhibits a jade water color with a silty clarity, often described as murky or hazy. This combination results in a tea-colored appearance, making it challenging to see through the water.
Surface area (mi)
145.4
Max depth (ft)
68.9
Elevation (ft)
357.61
Shoreline length (mi)
1004.14

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Lake Barkley

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Barkley has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Barkley. However, there are no designated swimming beaches with sand, and swimming is at your own risk since there are no lifeguards. Popular swimming spots include the Moss Creek Day Use Area and a natural sandy beach known as “The Sands,” which is only accessible by boat.

  • Lake Barkley is a popular destination because it offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and golfing. The area also features fun-filled attractions like Venture River Water Park and several family entertainment options.

  • For smallmouth bass in Lake Barkley, Tennessee, the creel limit is 5 per day in combination with other bass species, and there is a 15-inch minimum length limit. For black crappie, the daily creel limit is not specifically mentioned for Lake Barkley, but it has been reduced to 20 on Reelfoot Lake. Regulations may vary by location.

  • The best beach for families at Lake Barkley is Moss Creek Day Use Area, although it is technically on Kentucky Lake, it is part of the Land Between The Lakes area. It has picnic tables, grills, and toilets, and is open seasonally from April to October. However, for a beach specifically on Lake Barkley, there is a small beach just inside the mouth of Little River.

  • Towns near Lake Barkley that offer the best dining and lodging options include Grand Rivers and Kuttawa. Grand Rivers is known for its bustling atmosphere with some of the best lodging and dining in the Kentucky Lakes Area. Kuttawa has several restaurants and marinas, providing scenic views and amenities for visitors.