The Marinas of Lake Cumberland: Your Complete Guide to Getting on the Water

Lake Cumberland stretches over 100 miles through southern Kentucky, and getting out on the water is the whole point of coming here. Whether you're renting a pontoon for the day, launching your own boat, or looking for a full resort experience, knowing which marina fits your plans makes a big difference. Here's a rundown of ten marinas on Lake Cumberland and what each one has to offer.

Lee's Ford Resort Marina

Lee's Ford is one of the most well-known spots on the lake, and for good reason. It's a full resort with a restaurant, pool, cabin rentals, and a marina all in one place. If you want a comfortable, all-in-one lake day experience, this is your spot. Boat and houseboat rentals are available, and the facility is well kept. Located on the upper end of the lake near Trimble, Kentucky.

Hours: Mon-Thu 8AM-8PM | Fri-Sat 8AM-9PM | Sun 8AM-8PM Phone: (606) 636-6426 Website: leesfordmarina.com

Conley Bottom Resort

Conley Bottom is a favorite for families and serious boaters alike, and one of the highest-rated marinas on the lake. They offer boat rentals, houseboat rentals, a campground, a store, and a full service marina. It sits on the upper end of the lake near Monticello and tends to feel a little more laid back than some of the busier spots closer to town.

Hours: Daily 7AM-7PM Phone: (606) 348-6351 Website: conleybottom.com

Safe Harbor Burnside (Burnside Marina)

Located near General Burnside Island State Park, this marina is a great option if you want to mix a boat day with some time on land. They offer boat rentals, fuel, and a restaurant on site. Guests rave about the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, including a flooded railroad tunnel you can actually swim through nearby.

Hours: Daily 8AM-7PM Phone: (606) 561-4223 Website: safeharbor.com

Marina Rowena

Marina Rowena is a beloved local spot near the Wolf Creek Dam end of the lake, and it shows in the reviews. The staff is consistently praised, the ship store is well stocked, and they have a small restaurant with great lake views. If you're heading to the lower end of the lake, this is a must-stop. They also carry bait for anglers.

Hours: Mon-Thu 7AM-7PM | Fri-Sat 7AM-9PM | Sun 7AM-7PM Phone: (606) 206-7488 Website: marinarowena.com

State Dock

State Dock is one of the most popular marinas on Lake Cumberland and has been a go-to for generations of lake visitors. Houseboat rentals here are top-notch, with spacious, well-equipped boats that come with hot tubs, full kitchens, and flat screen TVs. The staff gets high marks for being helpful and easy to work with.

Hours: Mon-Thu 8AM-6PM | Fri-Sat 8AM-8PM | Sun 8AM-6PM Phone: (270) 344-5253 Website: statedock.com

Safe Harbor Jamestown (Jamestown Marina)

Right near Jamestown, this is a full service marina with lodging, a restaurant on the water, boat rentals, and slip services. Open late every day of the week, which is handy if you're coming in after a long day on the lake. Water taxi service is available so you don't have to worry about the parking situation.

Hours: Daily 8AM-10PM Phone: (270) 285-0444 Website: safeharbor.com

Wolf Creek Marina

Wolf Creek is one of the highest-rated marinas on the lake, and for good reason. The facility is well maintained, the views are stunning, and there's a restaurant and gift shop on site. It's a longer drive to get out there, but regulars say it's absolutely worth it. Great option for anglers heading to the dam end of the lake.

Hours: Mon-Thu 9AM-7PM | Fri-Sat 9AM-10PM | Sun 9AM-7PM Phone: (270) 866-3634 Website: wolfcreekmarina.com

Lake Cumberland Marina

Located in Russell Springs, Lake Cumberland Marina offers boat rentals and slip services in a convenient spot on the lake. Note that this one is weekdays only, so plan accordingly if you're visiting on a weekend.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-4PM | Closed Sat-Sun Phone: (270) 866-6616 Website: lakecumberlandmarina.com

Safe Harbor Beaver Creek (Beaver Creek Marina)

Beaver Creek Marina sits on the Beaver Creek arm of the lake near Monticello. The arm itself is scenic and a little calmer than the main channel, which makes it a nice spot for families or anyone who wants a more relaxed day on the water.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM | Sat-Sun 7AM-7PM Phone: (606) 348-7280 Website: safeharbor.com

Grider Hill Marina & Resort

Grider Hill sits on the lower end of the lake near Albany, Kentucky. Camping is available nearby and the lower lake area around Grider Hill is known for being beautiful and a little less trafficked than the upper lake. Call ahead for current hours and availability.

Phone: (606) 387-5501 Website: shmarinas.com

A Few Tips Before You Go

No matter which marina you choose, keep these things in mind:

• Call ahead on summer weekends. Boat rentals book up fast, especially on holiday weekends. Don't show up assuming something will be available.

• Most marinas are seasonal. The majority operate from spring through early fall. Services may be limited or unavailable in winter months.

• Fuel up before you get too far out. Lake Cumberland is big. Know where your nearest fuel dock is before you head out for the day.

• Check the water level. Lake Cumberland's water level can vary. Some boat ramps and coves are affected by low water. A quick check before you go saves a headache.

Staying at The Bee Hive or Weekend at Bernie's? Ask us which marinas are closest to your cabin and what we'd recommend based on what you're looking to do. We're always happy to point you in the right direction.

Now get out there and enjoy the lake.