Many often ask, exactly where is the Land Between the Lakes? Below, we answer that question, plus things to do in the area and where to stay during your vacation.
Where is the Land Between the Lakes located?
The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area manages over 170,000 acres of land between Kentucky and Barkley lakes in Western Kentucky and Tennessee. The protected undeveloped forest features diverse wetlands with 300 miles of shoreline, forested areas, and a natural habitat for wildlife.
All in a day’s drive
Its somewhat central location allows for easy access from some nearby major cities, making for a great day trip or weekend getaway.
- Beginning in Nashville to Grand Rivers (northern part of Land Between the Lakes) is 117 miles,roughly a one hour and 45-minute drive. From the south, near Dover, Nashville is only 80 miles.
- From both St. Louis, Missouri and Louisville, Kentucky, Grand Rivers is just about a three-hour drive. Perfect for a long weekend getaway!
Things to do at the Land Between the Lakes
Within the recreation area, there are 500 miles of trails that are perfect for biking, hiking, off-roading, horseback riding, and more. With 300 miles of shoreline, water activities include fishing, boating, birdwatching, and hunting. The Land Between the Lakes is also home to 55 species of mammals, 260 species of birds, elk, bison, wild turkeys, turtles, coyotes, gray foxes, deer, and bobcats.
Main attractions
In addition to exploring the area’s natural habitat and landscape, there are several designated attractions that are worth a visit:
- Elk and Bison Prairie – Elk & Bison Prairie Rd, Golden Pond, KY 42211
- Planetarium – 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211 (800) 525-7077
- The Nature Station – 3146 Silver Trail Rd, Cadiz, KY 42211 (270) 924-2299
- The Home Place – 4512 The Trace, Dover, TN 37058 (931) 232-6457
- Wrangler’s Riding Stables – 5100 Laura Furnace Rd Golden Pond, KY 42211 (270) 924-2211
Lodging at the Land Between the Lakes
Looking for lodging at the Land Between the Lakes? Located at the north entrance to Land Between the Lakes Kentucky, Lighthouse Landing Resort & Marina offers limitless outdoor recreation with some unique opportunities for environmental education and historic interpretation.
Lake access
When you stay at Lighthouse Landing, guests will enjoy direct access to Kentucky Lake. Our lakefront cabins in KY offer easy lake access. Plus, private areas with water-side views, perfect for watching local wildlife or witnessing one of our beautiful sunsets.
Located next to the Lighthouse walkway, this gravel beach area is for Lighthouse Landing guests only. There are two charcoal grills, a large fire pit, picnic tables, and shade trees. Reach the lake access area by walking from your cottage to the marina where you can access the marina trail to the Lighthouse.
Marina
If you plan on bringing your boat, our marina at Lighthouse Landing has what you need. We offer 190 open slips for boats up to 42’ with power, water and self-pump-out station and is located in a well-protected harbor on Kentucky Lake.
Lakeside cabins
We offer one, two, and three-bedroom cottages and guest rooms, furnished with convenient amenities. Built with comfort and relaxation in mind, our quaint cottages are clean and properly maintained to help ensure you enjoy your stay. Staying in one of our cabins is the best way to experience all that the Land Between the Lakes has to offer.
