Set in the naturally beautiful wilds of central-western Kentucky, Lake Cumberland is officially a reservoir, fed by the mighty Cumberland River. However, don’t be led astray by a technical label: Lake Cumberland is one big, fun, soaking wet good time, especially during the warmer months of the year. From the marinas to the brewpubs to the falls to the forests, the entire region is a vacationer’s paradise, and an ideal destination for an extended stay. Another Lake Cumberland claim to fame? World-class fishing. If you’re one who likes to bait the hook and cast off from the shore or from a boat, you’re in the right spot. Many of Kentucky’s record-size fish have been landed at Lake Cumberland, including striped bass, sturgeon, sauger, bream, catfish, walleye, and brown, lake, and rainbow trout.

If you’re flying into the Lake Cumberland region, you’ve got a few different landing spots: Lake Cumberland Regional Airport (SME) is probably the closest in proximity to the reservoir itself, and there’s also Blue Grass Airport (LEX) in Lexington and Louisville International Airport (SDF). It would be a smart move to rent a car at the airport, then make your way to the reservoir. Once you’ve arrived in Lake Cumberland proper, it’s fairly easy to get around. If you don’t have access to a car, the ride-share services are just a smartphone request away. Larger groups can book a charter bus for more ambitious excursions.

Summer is the superstar of the Lake Cumberland calendar. The weather, waterborne activities, lakeside fun, sunbathing, fishing, hiking, and seasonal festivities like the 4th of July celebration are just that much more enjoyable during summertime. But the other seasons have plenty to offer as well: fall is an especially beautiful time at Lake Cumberland, as the foliage changes color, the crowds thin out a bit, and that slight briskness in the air makes you want to cozy up. If you don’t mind the cold, winter has its own rewards as revelers, locals, restaurateurs, and business owners roll out the red carpet for seasonal holiday celebrations. And spring is simply magical in this part of the world, as the entire landscape erupts with life and activity. Whatever the season, there are plenty of lake cabins for rent to ensure a cozy stay.

Explore Daniel Boone National Forest

A nature lover’s delight, Daniel Boone National Forest spreads across the entire region, offering outdoor escape and adventure for anyone who likes to get out and explore. Natural features include waterfalls, arches, wildlife, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and, of course, untrammeled wilderness.

Spend the Day at the Lake Cumberland State Resort Park

The official state park of Lake Cumberland is located on the northern shore, and adds a good 3,100 acres to the lake’s 50,000+. The park hosts a couple of lodges, a restaurant, cottages, a campground, a country store, a gift shop, and a marina. Activities are endless: you can launch your boat, take a swim, hike a trail, take a guided horse tour, and play some frisbee golf, tennis, basketball, shuffleboard, and volleyball. Phew!

Take a Boat out to General Burnside Island State Park

Claiming its fame as Kentucky’s only island park, General Burnside Island State Park is located smack dab in the middle of Lake Cumberland, and is only accessible by boat (unless you happen to be a really, really good swimmer). This fun, unique destination-within-a-destination offers camping, golf, and, at the risk of sounding obvious, tremendous lake access.