10 of the Loveliest Lakeside Towns in Kentucky

Here are 10 of the loveliest lakeside towns in Kentucky that offer beautiful scenery, charming communities, and plenty of outdoor activities:

1. Glasgow (Barren River Lake)
   Glasgow is nestled near Barren River Lake, providing tranquil waters, excellent fishing, boating, and year-round outdoor recreation. The nearby state park is perfect for hiking and picnicking.
2. Campbellsville (Green River Lake)
   Campbellsville is known for Green River Lake’s clear waters and forested surroundings. Visitors enjoy kayaking, swimming, and trails at Green River Lake State Park.
3. Burgin (Herrington Lake)
   Herrington Lake offers the deepest waters in Kentucky and great conditions for boating and fishing. Burgin’s small-town charm complements the lakeside luxury homes and cabins.
4. Somerset (Lake Cumberland)
   Somerset is a gateway to Lake Cumberland, famous for house boating, water sports, and its vast 1,225 miles of shoreline. Natural beauty and community events enhance its appeal.
5. Grand Rivers (Lake Barkley & Kentucky Lake)
   Grand Rivers sits between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, offering spectacular fishing, sailing, and outdoor adventures. The small town is known for its hospitality and dining scene.
6. Kuttawa (KY Lake & Lake Barkley)
   Kuttawa provides a peaceful lakeside lifestyle with miles of shoreline, local marinas, hiking trails, and regular community events like summer concerts.
7. Burnside (Lake Cumberland)
   Burnside boasts proximity to Lake Cumberland and General Burnside Island State Park. Its welcoming community hosts various events, ideal for nature lovers.
8. Aurora (Kenlake State Resort Park)
   Aurora is a quiet town perfect for nature lovers, hosting the Hot August Blues Festival and close to the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, prime for wildlife viewing.
9. New Concord (Kentucky Lake)
   A small, secluded peninsula town on Kentucky Lake with a focus on fishing and local charm, offering quiet country living surrounded by water.
10. Paducah (Ohio River)
    While not directly on a lake, Paducah’s riverfront offers picturesque views, cultural attractions like the National Quilt Museum, and a vibrant downtown perfect for exploration.

These towns combine Kentucky’s natural beauty with lakeside living, making them ideal for both relaxation and recreation by the water.

Sources

(https://www.redfin.com/blog/lakes-in-kentucky-to-live-on/)
(https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/2025-s-9-most-scenic-kentucky-towns.html)
(https://wbkr.com/best-kentucky-lake-towns/)
(https://www.homestratosphere.com/secluded-lakeside-towns-in-western-kentucky/)
(https://wkdq.com/ixp/76/p/best-kentucky-lake-towns/)