Cave Run Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cave Run Lake |
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 Cave Run Lake
Location in Kentucky
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| Location | Kentucky |
| Coordinates | 38°04′53″N 83°29′29″W / 38.0815°N 83.4915°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 8,270 acres (33 km2) |
Cave Run Lake is a large, beautiful lake located in eastern Kentucky, USA. It's found south of Morehead, Kentucky. This huge lake covers about 8,270-acre (33 km2) of land.
It's not a natural lake, but a reservoir. This means it was created by building a dam. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam between 1965 and 1973. The dam is 148 feet (45 meters) tall and about half a mile (800 meters) long!
Cave Run Lake is a very important place. It helps protect the Licking River valley from floods. It also provides drinking water for nearby towns. The lake helps keep the Licking River flowing well. Plus, it's a home for many different kinds of fish and wildlife. You can find this lake in Rowan, Morgan, Menifee, and Bath counties. It's also part of the northern Daniel Boone National Forest.
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Fun Activities at Cave Run Lake
Cave Run Lake is a fantastic place for outdoor fun! There are many exciting things you can do here.
Water Sports and Boating
You can enjoy lots of activities on the water.
- Go for a swim at one of the designated beaches.
- Try boating or sailing.
- Paddle a canoe or kayak.
- Have a blast jet skiing across the lake.
- You can even go water skiing or tubing!
There are two marinas on the lake: Scott's Creek Marina and Long Bow Marina. They offer boat storage and boat rentals.
Exploring the Outdoors
The area around Cave Run Lake is perfect for exploring.
- Go camping under the stars.
- Hike on the many trails.
- Mountain biking is very popular here.
- You can also go horseback riding on special trails.
Zilpo Road is a scenic route that takes you to the Bath County side of the lake. This road is usually open all year. It leads to hunting areas, a campground, and many hiking trails.
Beaches and Picnics
Cave Run Lake has sandy beaches where you can relax and swim. There is a small fee to enter these beach areas.
- You can swim and hike.
- There are special spots for barbecuing.
- The state park offers showers and restrooms at the beach sites.
- Remember, there are no lifeguards on duty at these beaches.
Fishing Adventures
Cave Run Lake is famous for its great fishing. It's home to many types of fish.
- You can catch crappie.
- There are largemouth bass and smallmouth bass.
- It's also known for musky, a large and exciting fish to catch.
- You'll find various pan fish too.
Fishing tournaments are often held on the lake. If you want some help, you can even hire a professional guide for a boat charter.
Staying Near the Lake
If you want to stay longer, there are many places to choose from.
- You can find rental properties like cabins and lake houses.
- Many cabins are just a short walk from the lake.
- The towns nearby have small shops and restaurants to visit.
Daniel Boone National Forest Fun
The Daniel Boone National Forest surrounds Cave Run Lake. This forest offers even more adventures.
- You can find free campsites in the state park. These are available first-come, first-served.
- The forest has many hiking trails.
- Hunting is allowed during the regular season.
- Some areas around the lake allow ATVs and other off-road vehicles.
