Kentucky Rivers And Lakes

Kentucky has several important river systems flowing through its landscape.

Ohio River

The Ohio River forms the northern border between Kentucky and Indiana/Ohio. Facts about the Ohio River in Kentucky:

At over 1,000 miles long, it flows from Pittsburgh to the Mississippi River.
The Ohio River passes through Louisville, Kentucky's largest city.
It was a strategic river and trade route during settlement of the region.
Today it supports commercial shipping and provides drinking water.

Kentucky River

The Kentucky River flows west to east through central Kentucky. Details about the Kentucky River:

It spans over 250 miles across the state.
The river flows through the Kentucky River Palisades and the state capital of Frankfort.
Dams along the river generate hydroelectric power.
It provides opportunities for fishing, boating and tourism.

Cumberland River

The Cumberland River flows through southern Kentucky before joining the Ohio River. Facts about the Cumberland River:

It starts in eastern Kentucky and flows over 600 miles.
The river passes through the city of Bowling Green, Kentucky.
It was named after the Duke of Cumberland by explorer Thomas Walker.

Major Lakes in Kentucky

Some notable lakes in Kentucky include:

Lake Cumberland - One of the largest man-made lakes in the eastern U.S.
Lake Barkley - Impounded by a dam on the Cumberland River.
Kentucky Lake - Formed by the Tennessee Valley Authority along the Tennessee River.
Cave Run Lake - Located within the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Kentucky's rivers and lakes have shaped its history and landscape while providing essential water, energy, transportation, and recreation resources.

Click on the Kentucky Rivers And Lakes to view it full screen. File Type: PNG, File size: 148923 bytes (145.43 KB), Map Dimensions: 2451px x 2067px ( colors)