Taylorsville Lake is a 3,050-acre (1,230 ha) artificial lake or reservoir located mainly in Spencer County, Kentucky. Construction by the United States Army Corps of Engineers started in 1974, and flooding began in 1983. The total cost of the lake was $103 million. It is about 18.5 miles (29.8 km) long. Backwater areas of the lake are also located in Nelson County and Anderson County.
The dam is located on Salt River, and it is estimated that it has prevented more than $30.5 million in flood damages since it became operational. The lake is named for Taylorsville, the county seat of Spencer County, and today serves as a major economic source for Spencer County, as well as a popular fishing area. Taylorsville Lake State Park occupies a portion of the lake’s northern shore.
The lake’s water is murky year round and contains a large amount of silt washed down from agricultural runoff up river. During the lake’s creation there was a large amount of standing timber in the lake that still remains today. This timber provides cover for much of the lake’s wildlife.
On weekends with good weather the lake is usually fairly crowded, especially around holidays. Boaters new to the lake should use caution when leaving the river channel that runs through the lake due to standing timber that can sometimes be just under the water surface. The 2 most popular boat ramps found in the northwestern part of the lake are Settlers Trace and Possum Ridge also known as the State Park Ramp. There are two smaller boat ramps upstream, Chowning Lane and Van Buren. There is a small waterskiing course on the lake. Waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, jet skiing, and fishing are popular on the lake. Due to the lake’s popularity and proximity to a major city (the closest large lake to Louisville) fishing pressure on the lake is high which can make fishing difficult. Fishing with jugs for catfish is a common sight.
- Surface area (mi)
- 7.64
- Max depth (ft)
- 75
- Elevation (ft)
- 544.62
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 75.19
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Boating
Islands
Scattered across the shimmering expanse of water, the islands of Taylorsville Lake invoke a sense of serene adventure. These picturesque islands serve as tranquil retreats, offering an alluring blend of natural beauty and rich history. Once home to indigenous tribes, they feature remnants of past civilizations that whisper stories of a bygone era. Outdoor enthusiasts will find winding hiking trails that lead to secluded lookouts, revealing breathtaking vistas—ideal spots for capturing postcard-worthy photographs. The islands are a paradise for recreational boating, fishing, and picnicking, with designated areas that invite families and groups to immerse themselves in the lush surroundings. Notable landmarks include an ancient stone structure that hints at the area’s historical significance, drawing the curious to explore its enigmatic past. As the sun sets, the islands transform into a golden landscape, revealing themselves as an exquisite haven waiting to be discovered.
Nearby amenities
A wealth of amenities awaits at this prime lakeside destination in Kentucky. Boating enthusiasts will find a convenient boat ramp at the Taylorsville Lake State Park, complemented by the nearby Taylorsville Marina, offering boat, jet ski, and pontoon rentals. Fuel your boating adventures at their fuel dock and keep your vessel clean at the boat wash station. For those looking to cast a line, the fishing pier and designated fishing areas make for successful outings, bolstered by local supplies from Fish Tales Bait and Tackle Shop. Dining options abound, with the Lakefront Restaurant providing scenic views and delicious meals, while convenient stores like the Dollar General cater to last-minute shopping needs. Campers can choose from tent sites at the state park or cozy cabins with a view. Accessible paths ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors, and parking facilities are ample, including RV options. Families can unwind at picnic areas with BBQ grills or take a dip in designated swimming areas, making this lake an ideal stop for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Taylorsville Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, you can swim in Taylorsville Lake, but only at the designated swimming area at the Dam. Swimming is not allowed from boat ramps or docks.
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Taylorsville Lake is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. The lake provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and waterskiing, with several boat ramps and a waterskiing course. It also features camping facilities, including equestrian-friendly campgrounds, and scenic hiking trails around the lake.
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For Taylorsville Lake in Kentucky, the size and daily creel limits are as follows: Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass must be 15 inches or over with statewide creel limits applying. Crappie have a 10-inch minimum size limit and a 15-fish daily creel limit. There are specific limits for other species like catfish and rough fish, with no size or creel limits unless special regulations apply.
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There is no public beach at Taylorsville Lake. The park offers various water activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing, but it does not have a designated beach area. Visitors can enjoy the lake’s shoreline and scenic views, but swimming is not facilitated at a beach.
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Towns near Taylorsville Lake include Shelbyville, Bardstown, and Mount Washington. These towns are located in Spencer and Nelson counties in Kentucky. Bardstown, for example, is about 16.8 miles southwest of Taylorsville.