Old Kuttawa

Barkley Lake

Old Kuttawa Recreation Area is on the northern shores of Lake Barkley, near the narrow canal linking it to Kentucky Lake. Together, these two reservoirs combine to create one of the greatest freshwater recreation areas in the country.

Take pleasure in a day of picnicking or soak up the sun at the swimming beach, either way Old Kuttawa provides an ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best.

Two large picnic pavilions, an ampitheater, a playground, restrooms and paved parking are available. Plenty of picnic tables and grills are scattered around the recreation area, with ample shade for sunny summer days. **In order to reserve the ampitheater, you must reserve site 1 (large shelter).

Need to Know

Shallow depths exist throughout the lake; exercise caution in water activities.
Day use fees apply to use of the beach, playground, picnic sites near the beach, basketball and volleyball courts.
The park opens at 6 a.m. and closes at dusk.

Natural Features

Lake Barkley spans 57,900 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline and offers warm water temperatures during summer months that make for comfortable recreation.

Running parallel to Barkley Lake is its neighbor, Kentucky Lake, with the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area nestled between.

Nearby Attractions

See the astonishing Floodwall Murals in the town of Paducah. It is a gallery that captures Paduca's rich history.

Recreation

The half-mile Anderson Woodland Trail is an enjoyable footpath for birding and viewing the great tall trees of the region. Other activities include swimming, fishing and boating.

Contact Information

Default

2000 LAKE BARKLEY DR KUTTAWA KY 42055

Phone Number

For campground inquiries, please call: LAKE BARKLEY RESOURCE MANAGERS OFFICE: 270-362-4236

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From Nashville, take I-24 West to Exit 40. Turn left on 62 and then right on Highway 295. Follow Highway 295 to recreation area entrance.

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. We provide tools and tips to discover new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, and reservations. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Recreation.gov!