Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Paintsville Lake

Staffordsville, Kentucky · Johnson County

Located in eastern Kentucky, the lake offers boating, fishing, camping, hiking and horseback riding opportunities in a rural setting.

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37.83582, -82.87026
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About Paintsville Lake

Located in eastern Kentucky, the lake offers boating, fishing, camping, hiking and horseback riding opportunities in a rural setting.

How to Get There

From Paintsville - West on U.S. 460 then take State Route 40 West. Take State Route 2275 to the dam. This is a total of 4 miles.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Paintsville Lake

Heading to Paintsville Lake? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Paintsville Lake?

No central reservation system listed for Paintsville Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/330) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Paintsville Lake?

From Paintsville - West on U.S. 460 then take State Route 40 West. Take State Route 2275 to the dam. This is a total of 4 miles.

How do I contact Paintsville Lake?

You can reach the park at phone: (606) 297-6312.

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