LAUREL LAKE

Sunset over Laurel Lake

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers got permission from Congress to build a dam on Laurel River in 1960; as a result Laurel Lake was created by 1977. The 5,600-acre lake provides drinking water and entertainment for communities near and far. At the deepest point the lake spans a total of 280 feet, but overall averages 65 feet. This 19.2-mile long lake, with 206 miles of shoreline, provides the perfect atmosphere for water skiing, scuba diving, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating and just relaxing.

The lake holds two marinas, Holly Bay and Grove, for boat storage, re-fueling, restrooms, refreshments and boat rentals. Both, Holly Bay and Grove marinas, operate year round and help to protect the lake and provide for its visitors.

Holly Bay Marina

The Daniel Boone National forest surrounds Laurel Lake; this location provides the security needed to protect the clear waters. Dumping from residential or commercial facilities is impossible since the Daniel Boone National forest is protected from such construction.

Since 1977, the Forestry Service and the Corps of Engineers have worked collectively to develop public recreation facilities on and around the lake. Sheltowee (meaning "Big Turtle," and the name the Shawnee Indians called Daniel Boone) Trace National Recreation Trail is one of the numerous hiking tails winding around Laurel Lake. This trail is part of the National Trails System and runs a total of 270 miles, the length of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Camping (RV and tent) is available at the lake. Several campsites are scattered around the shorelines; the two main categories of camping include "drive in" and "boat in." As the names suggest, you can only reach boat in camping by boat; while drive in camping is available near the marinas. All campsites come with a picnic table, fire pit, fresh water and bathroom facilities. Campsites are also reasonably priced by the night; more information is available from the Resource Manager's Office at (606) 864-6412.

Picnic areas are also available for year round gatherings. The picnic areas come with an outdoor grill, picnic tables and plenty of room for a volleyball net. Another favorite spot for those looking to play in the water is affectionately called "the beach." Located just past the dam, with plenty of parking (and totally free!), is the sandy spillway that allows visitors to create sand castles, snorkel, swim, play Frisbee or just enjoy the sun. This spot is a favorite of children who enjoy wading in and out of the water.

Both marinas also rent boats for visitor's enjoyment. Pontoons, fishing boats and houseboats, in a range of size and commodities, are available year round. Prices vary due to the time of year and how outfitted the boat is. The houseboats sleep as many as 14 or as few as 6. The most equipped houseboats come furnished and include central heat and air conditioning, hot and cold water, TV/VCR, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, oven and stove, dishes, silverware, pots and pans, two full baths, a gas grill, large cooler, water slide, and AM/FM stereo. No prior operating experience is needed to rent a boat from either marina. Staff at the marinas will assist and teach users about the boat, lake and safety.

Lots of rock formations line Laurel Lake's shores

Visitors to the lake can view our nation's bird high among the treetops this fall. Last spring two baby bald eagles were born and are still visible close to their nest, safely protected, at Laurel Lake. Experts believe they chose the location due to the excess food source of fresh fish and forest creatures. Be sure to bring your binoculars and ask any of the locals how to find them yourself.

The lake is an excellent place to get away and enjoy the last days of summer. There is always something new to see or experience at Laurel Lake. Don't forget to bring plenty of towels, sunscreen and snacks. For more information about Laurel Lake you can visit either Holly Bay or Grove marina on the web, or e-mail us.

Written by Hannah Billings

The end of a great day!