Yatesville lake state park

Are you a Kentuckian looking for the perfect outdoor escape without traveling too far from home? Look no further than Yatesville Lake State Park, a true gem nestled in the heart of Eastern Kentucky. This expansive state park offers a diverse range of recreational activities and a wonderfully equipped campground, making it an ideal spot for families, solo adventurers, and anyone seeking to reconnect with nature. From serene lakeside camping to invigorating hikes and challenging rounds of golf, Yatesville Lake State Park provides an accessible and unforgettable outdoor experience right in your backyard.

As professional content writers specializing in local business SEO, we understand the importance of clear, engaging, and informative descriptions that resonate with the local community. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Yatesville Lake State Park's campground, highlighting its key features and why it's a top choice for your next Kentucky adventure.

Yatesville Lake State Park, established in 1992, is more than just a campground; it’s a full-service recreational hub built around the stunning 2,300-acre Yatesville Lake. This mountain reservoir, an impoundment of Blaine Creek, boasts an average depth of 40 feet and features three picturesque islands, adding to its scenic beauty. It's a place where the calm waters reflect the surrounding Appalachian foothills, creating a tranquil setting perfect for unwinding. The park's commitment to providing a high-quality outdoor experience is evident in its well-maintained facilities and diverse offerings, catering to a wide array of interests, from avid anglers and experienced hikers to casual campers and families looking for a relaxing getaway.

One of the primary draws of Yatesville Lake State Park is its reputation as a premier fishing destination. The lake is renowned for its abundant bluegill, crappie, and various bass species, making it a favorite among local anglers. Beyond fishing, the lake invites visitors to enjoy a plethora of boating activities, from leisurely pontoon rides and exhilarating jet-skiing to peaceful kayaking and canoeing. The clear, clean waters are perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm day. For those who prefer to stay on land, the park features an exceptional 18-hole golf course that offers both challenge and breathtaking views, as well as a network of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding. With so much to do, Yatesville Lake State Park ensures that every visitor finds their perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Yatesville Lake State Park is conveniently located in Eastern Kentucky, specifically at Yatesville, KY 41230, USA. Its exact address is 2667 Pleasant Ridge Road, Louisa, KY 41230. This makes it easily accessible for residents across Kentucky, particularly those in the eastern and central regions. The park is situated near the town of Louisa in Lawrence County, providing a balance of natural seclusion with proximity to local amenities if needed.

Accessing the park is straightforward, whether you're coming from nearby towns or further afield. If you're driving, US 23 is a primary route that will lead you towards Louisa. From there, well-marked state routes such as KY 3 and KY 32 will guide you directly to the park's various sections, including the campground and marina areas. The road network leading to Yatesville Lake State Park is well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing boats.

For those heading directly to the campground, following KY 32 to KY 3215 will lead you straight to your pitch. If your destination is the marina, take KY 3 to KY 1185. The park is designed with visitor convenience in mind, offering clear signage to help you navigate to your desired area. This ease of access contributes significantly to its appeal as a local getaway, allowing Kentuckians to spend less time traveling and more time enjoying their outdoor adventure.

The Yatesville Lake State Park campground is thoughtfully equipped with a variety of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers.

• Campsites: The campground features 47 sites in total. This includes 27 sites with full utility hookups (water, electricity, and sewer), catering to RVs and trailers. Additionally, there are 20 primitive sites, offering a more rustic camping experience.
• Boat-in Campsites: For those seeking a unique and secluded experience, Yatesville Lake State Park offers 16 "boat-in" sites. These sites are only accessible by boat, providing an unparalleled sense of privacy and direct lakeside access. While they are primitive, they are serviced by a road and feature three restroom facilities spaced along their length for convenience.
• Hike-in Campsites: There are also four "hike-in" sites available, perfect for backpackers and those who prefer to carry their gear into a more secluded, wooded setting without electricity.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities are available at the main campground, ensuring comfort for all campers. The boat-in sites also have access to restroom facilities.
• Laundry Room: A convenient laundry room is available at the campground, a useful amenity for longer stays or for refreshing your gear after a day of outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a readily accessible dump station is provided for waste disposal.
• Playground Facility: Families with children will appreciate the playground located within the campground, offering a safe and fun area for kids to play.
• Nature Trails: The campground provides direct access to various nature trails, inviting campers to explore the surrounding woodlands and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
• Boat Launch Ramps: The park features two boat launch ramps—one at the marina and another conveniently located at the campground—providing easy access to Yatesville Lake for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
• Marina Services: The Yatesville Marina, managed by the Kentucky Department of Parks, offers essential services for boaters and fishers, including 140 boat slips, boat rentals (pontoons and jon boats), gas, groceries, bait, fishing equipment, and souvenirs.

Yatesville Lake State Park is celebrated for its natural beauty and diverse recreational offerings, making it a standout destination in Kentucky.

• Exceptional Fishing: Yatesville Lake is highly regarded for its excellent fishing, particularly for bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and redear sunfish. An ADA-compliant fishing jetty and lagoon are also available at the marina, ensuring accessibility for all.
• Boating Paradise: With its 2,300 acres of clean, deep water, Yatesville Lake is a haven for all types of boating. Whether you enjoy cruising in a houseboat, speeding on a jet ski, or paddling a kayak, there's ample space and opportunities for water fun.
• Championship Golf Course: The Yatesville Lake Golf Course, known as Eagle Ridge, is an 18-hole regulation course designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels. It boasts a fully equipped pro shop, rental clubs, and carts, all set amidst stunning mountain scenery. The course participates in the Kentucky State Parks Golf Trail discount card program.
• Extensive Trail Systems: The park offers a variety of trails for different activity levels and interests.
  • Pleasant Ridge Trail System: Located near the campground, this system comprises five separate wooded nature trails that extend towards the lake.
  • Mary Ingles Trail System: Situated near the marina, this system includes six separate trail loops: three rugged, wooded hiking trails; two exercise paths; and one ADA self-interpretive nature trail, offering diverse experiences.
  • Yatesville Lake Multi-Use Trail: A significant highlight, this 20+ mile trail is open to hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, providing extensive opportunities for exploration. Operated by the Lawrence County Saddle Club, it even has a limited number of stalls available near the campground.
• Bird Watching Opportunities: The diverse habitats within the park attract a wide variety of bird species year-round. Visitors can spot wild turkeys, grouse, woodpeckers, warblers, and cardinals. Seasonal visitors include hummingbirds, purple martins, and migrating birds, with American Goldfinches being common in winter. Bald eagles and ospreys can often be seen near the lake and dam areas.
• Picnic Areas and Playgrounds: The park provides a picnic shelter available for reservations and additional picnic areas. Playgrounds are located at both the campground and the marina, along with horseshoe pits and cornhole setups, perfect for family fun.
• Secluded Camping Options: The unique "boat-in" and "hike-in" campsites offer a truly secluded camping experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in nature.

While specific campground-wide promotions can vary by season, Yatesville Lake State Park regularly offers discounts and special programs, particularly for its golf course and sometimes for group bookings. It's always a good idea for locals to check the Kentucky State Parks website or contact the park directly for the most current promotions.

• Golf Discount Cards: Yatesville Lake State Park's Eagle Ridge Golf Course often participates in the Kentucky State Parks Golf Trail discount card program. These cards can offer reduced rates on green fees at participating state park golf courses, which can be a significant saving for avid golfers. Inquire at the pro shop for more information.
• Weekday Golf Deals: Occasionally, the golf course may offer weekday specials, such as a "4 For 3" deal on 18 holes, or discounts on prevailing rates during Monday-Thursday. These are great opportunities for locals to enjoy a round at a reduced cost.
• Seasonal Campground Specials: While not always advertised broadly, Kentucky State Parks may offer seasonal promotions for camping, especially during shoulder seasons or for extended stays. It is advisable to directly contact the park for any current camping specials.
• Camper's Appreciation Weekend: Historically, the park has held events like a "Campers' Appreciation Weekend" in April, which might include special activities or benefits for campers. Check the park's event calendar for recurring annual events.

To ensure you get the best value, always check the official Kentucky State Parks website or call the park directly before planning your visit. These offers are subject to change and may have specific terms and conditions.

For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about Yatesville Lake State Park and its campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Yatesville Lake State Park, 2667 Pleasant Ridge Road, Louisa, KY 41230, USA
• Main Park Phone: (606) 673-1492
• Campground Reservations Phone: (606) 673-1490 (For camping reservations, it's recommended to call this number or visit the Kentucky State Parks website for online bookings.)
• Golf Course Pro Shop Phone: (606) 673-4300 or (866) 906-7888
• Marina Phone: (606) 686-2361

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or for specific inquiries about availability and services. The park staff are knowledgeable and can provide the most up-to-date information on conditions, reservations, and any special events.

For residents of Kentucky, Yatesville Lake State Park Campground stands out as an exceptional local destination, offering a perfect blend of convenience, natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities. Its close proximity to communities across Eastern Kentucky means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways or even spontaneous day trips.

One of the most compelling reasons for locals to visit is the sheer variety of activities available. Whether you're an avid angler, a dedicated hiker, a passionate golfer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat by the water, Yatesville Lake State Park delivers. The lake’s reputation for excellent fishing means that a successful catch is often just a cast away, providing hours of enjoyment and potentially a fresh meal for dinner. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the expansive, clean waters, perfect for everything from tranquil paddles to exhilarating powerboating.

The campground itself is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, offering a range of sites from full hookups for RVs to rustic "boat-in" and "hike-in" sites for those seeking more seclusion. This variety caters to different camping styles and preferences, ensuring there’s a perfect spot for every Kentuckian. The availability of amenities like clean restrooms, hot showers, and even a laundry room makes extended stays much more comfortable, allowing families to fully immerse themselves in the camping experience without sacrificing essential comforts.

Beyond the water, the park's network of multi-use trails provides endless opportunities for exploration, whether on foot, bike, or horseback. These trails allow locals to discover the unique flora and fauna of Kentucky’s Appalachian region, offering a deeper connection to their home state's natural heritage. The Eagle Ridge Golf Course adds another layer of appeal, providing a championship-level experience amidst breathtaking scenery – a fantastic amenity for local golfers to enjoy year-round.

Furthermore, Yatesville Lake State Park fosters a strong sense of community. It's a place where locals can gather, make memories, and create traditions. The playground and picnic areas provide perfect settings for family gatherings, while the communal atmosphere of the campground encourages friendly interactions among fellow Kentuckians. Choosing to visit and support local state parks like Yatesville Lake also contributes to the preservation of Kentucky's natural resources and the ongoing maintenance of these valuable recreational areas for future generations. It's an investment in your own backyard, providing accessible and high-quality outdoor experiences that enrich the lives of residents.

In essence, Yatesville Lake State Park Campground isn't just a place to visit; it’s an extension of the Kentucky lifestyle, offering a convenient, affordable, and deeply rewarding way to connect with the state’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant outdoor culture. Make it your next local adventure destination.

Yatesville lake state park

Yatesville, KY 41230, USA