Where is barkley dam

Lake Barkley was impounded by the U. Army Corps of Engineers in The dam impounds the Cumberland River near Grand Rivers, Kentucky, approximately 38 miles up stream from where the Cumberland empties into the Ohio River. One mile above the dam is a canal connecting Lake Barkley with Kentucky Lake , forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country. The lakes run parallel courses for more than 50 miles with Land Between the Lakes National Recreational Area located between them.

Lake Barkley is miles long with a shoreline measuring 1, miles. As with the formation of Kentucky Lake, communities were flooded in the 's to build Lake Barkley. The "Old" areas were the portions of the cities that were left above the water after the areas were flooded. You will notice these old areas are now lakefront.

The present day cities were created after the lake was formed. Old foundations and streets, previously flooded, are still visible during winter pool. Highways were even relocated including US 68 and US 62 along with state routes and smaller streets. The Illinois Central Railroad was relocated and can still be seen on satellite images online. Lake Barkley provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

Natural conditions at Lake Barkley make it possible for the public to participate in activities such as hiking , fishing , hunting , camping , picnicking, and boating. In addition, Fort Donelson, located at Dover, Tenn. Other historic attractions , commercial marinas , public parks and wildlife refuges can be found at Lake Barkley.

The many species of wildlife here, including bald eagles, make bird watching and nature photography exciting pastimes. Barkley is a multiple-purpose project designed for flood control, navigation, and hydropower. Two additional purposes for which Lake Barkley is managed are recreation and fish and wildlife.

Lake Barkley belongs to its visitors. Treat the area with respect by keeping it clean and attractive. Enjoy yourself, have a safe visit, and come again. Lake Barkley is home to campgrounds, resorts, marinas and lots of water recreation.

Fishing is the most popular activity with anglers catching crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish. Boating is also a popular activity with houseboats, ski boats, and pontoons. Joined with Kentucky Lake by a free-flowing canal in the north, boaters will find it easy to access both lakes. The dam was created for several purposes, but most importantly, flood control and to generate hydroelectric power. Eddyville and Kuttawa, located on the Cumberland River, were both flooded by the river often. The US Army Corps of Engineers decided that the small locks and dams up and down the Cumberland weren't enough for flood control, so the construction of Barkley Dam began in and completed five years later.