When the summer heats up, we all look for places to cool off and get wet.  In Kentucky, the best place to escape the heat is in the Southern Lakes Region.  One of the most popular places for a little water-based summer fun in this beautiful area is Lake Cumberland.  As one of the 10 largest manmade lakes in the country, Lake Cumberland encompasses 63,000 acres and more than 1,200 miles of shoreline. Whether you're into fishing, boating, or just relaxing, Kentucky's Lake Cumberland is waiting for you.  Search for your favorite Kentucky Bed and Breakfast in the Southern Lakes Region, and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.    

Lake Cumberland, known as the Houseboat Capital of the World, also happens to be the fourth best recreational lake in the United States, according to USA Today’s 10Best.com.  Getting out on the water in Lake Cumberland is easy.  Whether you prefer the excitement of tubing, rafting, and waterskiing, or the calm of kayaking and fishing, endless adventures await on the glassy waters of Lake Cumberland.  If you happen to have your own boat, there are a several boat launches you can use. Otherwise, the Burnside Marina and Lee's Ford Marina Resort both offer a variety of rentals. If you're looking for an extremely beautiful and unique place to paddle or fish, try Buck Creek, part of Kentucky's Blue Water Trails system.  It's a place like no other, where over 90 caves have been carved by the cold, clear waters.  The deep gorge carved by this creek rivals the awe-inspiring beauty of Kentucky's Famous Red River Gorge.  There are also 77 different species of fish in these pristine waters, and 30 species of mussels.  Out on the open waters of the lake itself, fishermen will find crappie, bream, walleye, trout, catfish, and five species of bass.  To say it's a fishing paradise is an understatement.

When you're ready to dry off and do a little more exploring, there's plenty of fun waiting for you. The Lake Cumberland area is known for many natural woodland areas, such as the Daniel Boone National Forest in the east and Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in the south.  A visit to Cumberland Falls, known as the Niagara of the South, is also well worth the trip. There are also plenty of festivals and other fun events happening in the area to round out your summer fun. No matter what it is you choose to do, you'll discover why Lake Cumberland is such a popular vacation destination. Search our member Inns, and find your perfect Kentucky Lodging today.