Grayson Lake

Grayson Lake
38.2403° N, -82.9836° W
Grayson Lake

Grayson Lake is a 1,500-acre reservoir in Carter and Elliott counties in Kentucky. It was created by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1968 by impounding the Little Sandy River with the Grayson Dam, an earthen structure 120 feet high, creating a maximum capacity of 118,990 acre-feet. Sections of Kentucky Route 7 were re-routed as a result of the lake’s creation. KY 7 now traverses a modern highway stretch around the park, crossing the dam also.

The lake is the major attraction of Grayson Lake State Park.

Surface area (mi)
3.79
Max depth (ft)
59.06
Elevation (ft)
643.04
Shoreline length (mi)
75
Best time to go
Visit Grayson Lake in late spring, particularly May, when wildflowers burst into bloom and the water glistens under abundant sunshine. Experience tranquil fishing, soothing kayaking, and fewer crowds, creating a serene escape that connects you with nature's lush beauty.
Water Quality
The water at American Lake is deep blue, with a transparency often exceeding 4 meters, indicating it is transparent and gin-clear. The shoreline is part of a well-established lakefront community, offering scenic views suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. However, the lake is experiencing an expansion of the noxious aquatic weed Eurasian Watermilfoil, which can occasionally affect the water clarity and color. Overall, the lake's water clarity is good, and the natural scenery is pristine.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Jet Skiing

Islands

Emerging gracefully from the shimmering waters of one of Kentucky’s most picturesque lakes, the islands of Grayson Lake enchant visitors with their serene beauty and rich history. These small landmasses, steeped in the lore of the late 1930s when the reservoir was constructed, offer a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike. One can wander the rustic hiking trails that meander across the islands, revealing panoramic lookouts where the vibrant hues of sunset kiss the water’s edge, creating a perfect canvas for photography enthusiasts. The remnants of early 20th-century structures dot the landscape, whispering tales of a bygone era. Ideal for recreational activities, these islands serve as a playground for boating, fishing, and picnicking among the wildflowers and towering trees. With each visit, travelers uncover hidden gems that showcase not just the natural allure of these islands, but also a captivating narrative that beckons them back.

Nearby amenities

Visiting this picturesque destination in Kentucky offers a variety of amenities to enhance your experience. For boating enthusiasts, the Grayson Lake Marina provides boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a public dock for easy access to the water. There’s a well-maintained boat ramp for launching your craft and a fuel dock to fill up before heading out. Supplies are readily available at nearby stores, including Grayson Lake Grocery and tackle shops for fishing needs. Dining options abound with lakeside restaurants like The Grayson Lake State Park Restaurant, offering scenic views and delicious meals. For those looking to stay overnight, the Grayson Lake State Park Campground provides tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins. Outdoor recreation opportunities are plentiful, with hiking trails and wildlife viewing spots nearby. Facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas with BBQ grills, and fire pits ensure a comfortable visit, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Grayson Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Grayson Lake, but not from the dam, boat launch, or areas with posted restrictions. Swimming is permitted in other parts of the lake at your own risk.

  • Grayson Lake is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. You can kayak, hike, golf, and go boating on the 1,512-acre lake. The park also features scenic cliff sides, waterfalls like Grotto Falls, and hiking trails with sandstone rock formations.

  • In Grayson Lake, Kentucky, the size limit for largemouth and smallmouth bass is a 15-inch minimum. You can catch up to the daily limit specified for the lake, but this must be checked against specific lake regulations. Grayson Lake was the first major lake in Kentucky to implement a 15-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass, starting in 1982.

  • There is no public beach at Grayson Lake. The swim beach at Bruin, which was the only beach area, is closed until further notice, and swimming is not permitted from state park land. However, swimming is allowed in other parts of the lake, except at boat ramps and restricted areas.

  • Towns near Grayson Lake include Clarkson, Leitchfield, and Caneyville. These towns are located within Grayson County, Kentucky, and are in close proximity to the lake. Clarkson and Leitchfield are the larger of these towns, with Leitchfield being the county seat.