Calm lake with campground

Nolin Lake Vacation Rentals

Nolin Lake

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Nolin Lake
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Why Rent On Nolin Lake

Nolin Lake, a serene and expansive body of water in Kentucky, offers a tranquil retreat for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. Spanning 5,795 acres, this lake is a haven for boating, fishing, and water sports. Anglers can reel in bass, walleye, catfish, and crappie, while kayakers and canoeists can explore the lake’s several small coves and enjoy the minimal motorboat traffic.

The lake’s shoreline is dotted with a campground featuring well-maintained sites, some with direct water access and others offering secluded privacy. A sand beach and picnic pavilion provide perfect spots for family outings and group events. Nature lovers can delight in the abundant wildlife, including Great Blue Herons, Canada Geese, and Wild Turkeys.

Just minutes away lies Mammoth Cave National Park, a must-visit for any adventure traveler. The nearby city of Bowling Green offers additional attractions, including the Corvette Plant and Corvette Museum, as well as several bourbon distilleries within a short drive. Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, embark on an outdoor adventure, or explore historical landmarks, Nolin Lake State Park is an ideal destination.

Best time to go
Visit Nolin Lake in late spring, particularly mid-May, when the azaleas bloom and the days are sunlit and warm. Experience tranquil fishing on quiet shores, vibrant water sports, and the gentle hum of nature, free from the summer crowds.
Water Quality
Nolin Lake's waters are a deep blue, reflecting the clear skies above. The lake's clarity is ultra-clear, allowing for excellent visibility beneath the surface.
Surface area (mi)
14.6
Max depth (ft)
100
Elevation (ft)
515.09
Shoreline length (mi)
172.37

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Ice Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Hiking
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Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Nolin Lake. Swimming is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day, unless indicated otherwise by signposts at the beach. The Iberia recreation area is a popular swimming spot with a public access beach.

  • Nolin Lake is a popular destination because it offers various activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake has a beautiful sandy beach at the Brier Recreation Area and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking on its 12 miles of trails. Visitors can also rent boats from docks like Ponderosa Boat Dock.

  • In Nolin River Lake, Kentucky, largemouth and smallmouth bass have a 15-inch minimum size limit, but one fish in the daily creel limit or two in the possession limit may be less than 15 inches long. The daily creel limit allows for up to six bass, with specific restrictions on size to protect the fish population.

  • There is no beach with a boat launch specifically designated as a beach at Nolin Lake. However, the Dog Creek Campground has a swimming area and a boat launching ramp, but it is not a traditional beach. The campgrounds and boat ramps are separate facilities.

  • Towns near Nolin Lake include Big Clifty, Bonnieville, and Bowling Green. These towns are located in Edmonson, Grayson, and Hart counties in Kentucky, surrounding the lake. Other nearby towns include Glasgow, Elizabethtown, and Campbellsville, all within a 66-mile radius of Nolin Lake Estates.