Late spring and during the summer we are often looking for ways to cool down in the heat, and there's no better way to do that than on one of the numerous beautiful Kentucky lakes. Fortunately for residents and visitors, our state has more miles of navigable water than anywhere in the U.S., excluding Alaska and Hawaii. You can go boating, swimming, hiking, wading, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and pretty much any other water activity you desire. The hardest part was choosing the best lakes in Kentucky to visit, so we tried to narrow it down. Here are 12 of the best lakes in Kentucky that you must add to your summer bucket list!

1. Kentucky Lake

There is nothing like relaxing and watching a sunrise or a sunset on Kentucky Lake. The serenity of the water as it reflects the fire of the sun is mesmerizing. Swimming, hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and other water activities are also highly encouraged. Kentucky Lake is a great place to spend a few days alone or with friends and family. It has more than 2,380 miles of shore, 160,000 acres of water at normal levels, and is near the cities of New Concord, Benton, Murray, Aurora, Grand Rivers, and Gilbertville. It's also an excellent place to go stargazing!

2. Taylorsville Lake at 1320 Park Road in Mt. Eden

For decades, Taylorsville Lake has been a favored fishing spot for catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and sunfish. It also provides great camping areas for primitive campers and 42 full-service RV campsites, including water and electric. You can hang out on the water or on land for fishing and horseback riding. There are some amazing fishing spots under the trees along the large flat rocks. This is one of the prettiest lakes in Kentucky.

3. Shanty Hollow Lake

Shanty Hollow has a gorgeous waterfall at the end of an easy mile-long trail, easily accessible by beginners. The lake itself is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The waterfall offers a real treat in serenity and is perfect for a picnic. Shanty Hollow Lake is a quiet little oasis that isn’t overcrowded.

4. Rough River Lake

You can get lost in nature at Rough River Lake, one of the most beautiful hidden gem Kentucky lakes. This area has a variety of spots for hiking and camping. Rough River Lake also has a cozy lodge and some fine cooking and takeout available at local restaurants. If you prefer to catch your own… you’ll be pleased with the fresh fish just waiting to see the hook dangle.

5. Paintsville Lake

Paintsville Lake is a beautiful area with an abundance of trees and a lake bustling with fish. The campground isn’t huge but it can accommodate 32 RVs and around 10 primitive tents. The best part of the park is the canopy of trees that surrounds the lake, providing the perfect atmosphere for catfish, or privacy.

6. Nolin River Lake at 2998 Briar Creek Road in Mammoth Cave

Nolin River Lake has cabins, campsites, roomy roads, and plenty of places to enjoy. You can bring a boat or rent one to spend an afternoon fishing or swimming. Some people just sun and enjoy the sound of the water from the shore or docks.

7. Martins Fork Lake

Martins Fork has its own lake, and it is a beautiful spot to take a day or three and relax. If you love to fish, the locals find this to be a favored spot, especially along the pier. It depends on what you want to catch, but once you drop in you likely won’t complain. There are a few good swimming spots and the lake is a great place to putt around and relax. A paddle boat really makes for a good time, especially if you bring a pole along.

8. Laurel River Lake in Williamsburg

Laurel River Lake is a place where you can rent a cabin and get away from civilization. You can camp out, fish, boat, swim in parts, and enjoy the serenity of the lake and surrounding environment. Laurel is favored by those looking for a spot a little less crowded than Land Between the Lakes, but with all the charm and serenity. This is a great place to just get away from it all and fish or relax... in some of the most clear-blue waters in Kentucky!

9. Lake Cumberland

Lake Cumberland might be one of the most famous lakes in KY just because of the moonbow at the Falls. The incredible beauty, reasonable cabin rentals, abundant camp grounds, and acres of gorgeous water filled with fish are all an added bonus. This is the perfect spot to have a romantic getaway, a family weekend, or a get-together with friends. There is something to do for everyone in this haven for nature and water lovers.

10. Lake Barkley at 82 Days Inn Drive in Kuttawa

At lovely Lake Barkley, you will find amazing deals on cabin rentals, and fresh fish is readily available. There are campsites offering water and electric and primitive sites for those who like to really sink into nature. You will also find boat rentals in varying sizes at your disposal, just in case you don’t have one of your own. Caspian Terns is another great spot on Lake Barkley to relax and watch beautiful waterfowl going about their daily activities.

11. Green River Lake in Campbellsville

Green River Lake is an 8,200-acre lake that has everything from hiking to horseback riding trails. The camping sites are plentiful and the gorgeous woodlands offer an abundance of spots for primitive camping. If you have a boat, you can just spend all your time on the lake during the day or the night. Green River Lake is a haven for those who love swimming and water sports.

12. Barren River Lake at 1149 State Park Road in Lucas

Contrary to its name, there's nothing "barren" about Barren River Lake. This man-made lake was created in 1964 and occupies portions of Monroe, Allen, and Barren Counties. It offers a wondrous summer getaway for any and all right down to a manmade beach. Barren River Lake State Resort Park is a lush oasis of verdant foliage, rolling blue hills, pristine waters, and an abundance of wildlife that's peak Bluegrass #lakelife.

When it comes to beating the heat, the best lakes in Kentucky make for a perfect adventure. You can take a hike, come back, and cool off in the water. In some spots, you can camp out near the lake and let the soothing water ease you off to sleep. What is your favorite lake to visit in the summertime?

Heading out on a road trip to one of the above Kentucky lakes? Take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need before you hit the road!