In eastern Kentucky, Paintsville Lake has a surface area of 1140 acres and is nearly 18 miles long. It attracts visitors for boating, hiking, and many other recreational activities. The lake's shoreline is bordered by cliffs and coves. With the mountains looming in the distance, the scenery is beautiful. Several recreation areas, as well as Paintsville Lake State Park, are next to the lake. The lake and surrounding 13,000 acres of land are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Upon your arrival at the lake, stop in at the visitor center for lake information, including maps and brochures about the area. You’ll find that there are activities to be enjoyed by all at Paintsville Lake. Many miles of hiking trails lead visitors to scenic views, historical features, and provide the opportunity for wildlife viewing. Several boat ramps provide access to the water for those with boats or other watercraft. Boat rentals are also offered at the marina. An abundance of fish and wildlife attracts anglers and hunters.
For those wanting to stay overnight to enjoy the recreational activities offered, Paintsville Lake State Park is adjacent to the lake. The state park has 32 sites at the campground, all of which have full hookups for RVs and travel trailers. Primitive campsites are also offered at the state park. Be sure to make reservations in advance because the campground can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Paintsville Lake is located in Staffordsville, Kentucky and can easily be accessed from Route 2275. Once you’ve arrived, be sure to stop at the visitor center to pick up maps and brochures about the lake and surrounding area.
If planning to camp, you’ll want to head into Paintsville Lake State Park which is adjacent to the lake. The park roads are maintained and shouldn't be difficult to navigate. Many of the campsites can accommodate large RVs up to 48 feet in length.
Once settled in at your campsite, you can walk or bike to access the lake from the state park. There is also a large parking lot in the day-use area for those who drive. There are other recreation areas located around the lake. Visitors will find it necessary to drive if wanting to enjoy amenities or attractions in other areas.
Paintsville Lake State Park is adjacent to the lake and has a 32-campsite campground. Each of the 32 sites has full hookups including water, sewer, and electricity. There are an additional 10 campsites that are primitive. The campsites can accommodate RVs up to 48 feet long.
The campground is open year-round and reservations can be made online for a campsite. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Additional amenities include restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
The 1140-acre lake is popular for boating and other watersports. There are several boat ramps located around the lake providing quick access to the water. For those who don’t have or are unable to bring their boat, a marina by the state park has pontoon and fishing boat rentals. While there are no size limits on boats or motors, boaters are expected to follow rules and regulations. Whether you’re on a motorboat or a canoe, you’ll enjoy making a day of exploring the 18-mile long lake.
There are several hiking trails of varying length and skill at Paintsville Lake. An 18-mile section of Dawkins Trail leads hikers and cyclists to 24 trestles and the 662-foot long Gun Creek Tunnel. The 1.6-mile mile Kiwanis Trail provides scenic views of the lake and is an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing other wildlife. This loop trail is great for all skill levels. Near the dam, a seven-mile-long trail makes for a great morning or afternoon hike. There is no shortage of opportunities to stretch your legs and explore Paintsville Lake.
Bicycling is permitted on the roadways and some trails at Paintsville Lake, though they aren’t permitted on the Kiwanis Trail. The 18-mile section of the Dawkins Trail is popular to cyclists. The trail runs along an old railroad bed and will bring cyclists to 24 trestles as well as Gun Creek Tunnel. Watch out for those on foot along the trails and cars if out on the roads.
Paintsville Lake is well-stocked with fish by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. Smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish are common catches by anglers. While the lake itself is stocked with rainbow trout each year, the creek below the dam is stocked each month between April and November. Whether you’re fishing by boat or from the expansive shoreline, you won’t come out empty-handed. Don’t forget to bring or pick up a Kentucky fishing license for your visit.
If planning to hunt during your visit, be sure to obtain any required permits and become familiar with regulations and limits. Hunting is permitted on nearly 90% of the land with the exception of day-use and recreation areas. Hunters are drawn to Paintsville Lake for deer, turkey, and squirrel hunting, though other types of wildlife are common to the area as well.
One of your first stops after arriving at Paintsville Lake should be the visitor center. At the visitor center, you’ll find information regarding the dam and the nearby recreational areas. There are maps and brochures about the area that you’ll find useful for your visit to the lake. The ranger station can also be found at the visitor center.
