Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Laurel River Lake

Keavy, Kentucky · Laurel County

Laurel River Lake is situated within the boundaries of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail passes through the Laurel damsite.

🧭 Get Directions
Advertisement
36.95712, -84.26694
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Laurel River Lake

Laurel River Lake is situated within the boundaries of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail passes through the Laurel damsite.

Plan Your Visit to Laurel River Lake

Heading to Laurel River 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 Laurel River Lake?

No central reservation system listed for Laurel River Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/388) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Laurel River Lake?

From London, KY, 20 mi E on KY 192 to KY 1193.

How do I contact Laurel River Lake?

You can reach the park at phone: (606) 864-6412.

Guides & rankings

More on Kentucky parks & hiking

View all posts →
Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

The 10 Longest Hiking Trails in Kentucky, Ranked

Kentucky's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.

By The OutsideAtlas Team5 min
Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

Kentucky's 10 Most Punishing Trails by Elevation Gain

Steep is hard. These are the ten Kentucky trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Cascading waterfall through a green moss-covered ravinePhoto: Maddi Bazzocco
State Rankings

The Best Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Kentucky

Ten gentle, well-marked Kentucky trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

The 10 Most Challenging Hikes in Kentucky

Kentucky's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Going down the Grand Canyon. Seeing our destination from afar. So worth! If you find this picture useful, consider donating! Venmo: @diegonachoPhoto: Diego Lozano
Parks & Travel

The Best National Parks & Recreation Areas in Kentucky

Federal parks and recreation areas in Kentucky ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Alpine lake reflecting jagged mountain peaks at sunrisePhoto: Joshua Earle
State Rankings

Best Waterfall Hikes in Kentucky: 10 Trails to See Falls Up Close

Kentucky's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min