Kentucky Lake Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the lake?
Note: The Green Turtle Bay Marina does service Lake Barkley, but a channel will take you from Lake Barkley into Kentucky Lake. This trip through the channel takes only about 15 minutes.
From Hopkinsville, Kentucky: Green Turtle Bay is about 54 miles from Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Take KY-80/US-68 west from Hopkinsville for 14.1 miles, then take the ramp onto I-24 West. You'll drive I-24 for 34.4 miles, then take exit 31 for KY-453 (Smithland/Grand Rivers). Take a prompt left onto KY-453. Drive for 3.3 miles, then take a left onto Commerce Avenue. Turn left onto KY-952, then take a right on Barkley Drive. Turn left and then right, shortly afterward, to stay on Barkley Drive. Continue onto Nautical Drive and you'll be at the marina.
From Paducah, Kentucky: Green Turtle Bay is about 30 miles from Paducah, Kentucky. Take I-24-BL E/US-60-BR E from Paducah. This will turn into John Puryear Drive after 3.3 miles. Continue on for 2.6 miles, then take a slight left onto Husband Road. Take a left and merge onto I-24 E. You'll drive this for 19.4 miles, then take exit 31 for KY-453 (Smithland/Grand Rivers). Take a prompt right onto KY-453. Drive for 3.2 miles, then take a left onto Commerce Avenue. Turn left onto KY-952, then take a right on Barkley Drive. Turn left and then right, shortly afterward, to stay on Barkley Drive. Continue onto Nautical Drive and you'll be at the marina.
click here to view a map of the Kentucky Lake area.
What is there to do at Kentucky Lake?
As the largest man-made lake in the eastern U.S., Kentucky Lake is large enough to keep anyone busy for weeks. You can houseboat, you can speedboat, you can canoe. The fish are a definite draw for anglers, as well. You can also drop anchor and explore the shoreline. The Land Between the Lakes in the Kentucky segment of the lake is a natural paradise and it's far from the only expanse of greenery alongside the lake. There are four state parks bordering the lake and many, many parks and park-type areas besides. If you love a good hike, this is a lake you'll want to houseboat.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hang of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Earlier is better. If you're planning a trip during a holiday weekend like Memorial Day, it's best to get a reservation six months or more in advance. Mid-week trips or off-season dates are often available as little as a few weeks beforehand.
What kind of fish are found in the lake?
Kentucky Lake was once known as the "Crappie Capital of the world" and large, two-pound crappies are an easy find in these waters. Bass, specifically the Lunker largemouth, spotted and especially the smallmouth, are both popular and plentiful. Other thriving species are the catfish, bluegill, red ear, sauger and stripers.
Is there camping along the lake shore?
You'll find no end of commercial and state campgrounds on the shores - cabins all but on the water are not uncommon.