While Kentucky Lake, understandably, gets a lot of attention and Lake Cumberland is known as the “Houseboat Capital of the World,” we Kentuckians are equally proud of all our Kentucky Lakes, including Lake Barkley.
Below are a few fast facts about this beautiful lake, so you can get to know it a little better. Of course, the best way to get to know Lake Barkley (or any of Kentucky’s Lakes) is to get out and there and see it for yourself.
- Lake Barkley was created in 1966 by the damming of the Cumberland River.
- Lake Barkley is the second-largest lake in Kentucky, second to Kentucky Lake.
- Lake Barkley, together with Kentucky Lake to the west, surrounds/creates the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL).
- During winter months, the average water temperature of Lake Barkley is 45 to 65. In summer months, the average water temperature is between 70 to 80 degrees.
- Lake Barkley is 134 miles long with 1,004 miles of shoreline.
- Lake Barkley is, as you’d imagine, a very popular destination for fishing. This lake is known for its bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, Kentucky bass and largemouth bass.
- Lake Barkley is named in honor of the late Alben W. Barkley, the 35th vice president of the United States and senator. Barkley was a Paducah, Kentucky native.
- Lake Barkley State Resort Park is beautifully set on Lake Barkley and the scenery can’t be topped.
- Barkley Dam is 10,180ft long and 157ft high.
- The state of Kentucky has more miles of running water than any other state except Alaska.
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