The summer temperatures aren’t getting any cooler here in Kentucky, so we might as well make the most of it with some outdoor adventures! On especially hot days, you’ll want to be near the water for a refreshing dip. While Kentucky is known for many awesome lakes, there’s one hidden gem that sometimes flies under the radar.

If you haven’t gone to Rough River Lake, you’ll definitely want to add it to your summer bucket list.

Rough River Lake is a 5,100-acre reservoir that runs through the Breckinridge, Grayson, and Hardin counties in Kentucky.

Rough River Lake/Facebook

In 1959, it was impounded from the Rough River by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

Rough River Lake/Facebook

The 132-foot-high earthen Rough River Dam is a main attraction for visitors and many stay at the Rough River Dam State Resort Park Lodge when they visit.

Rough River Dam State Resort/TripAdvisor

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful morning…

Charlie c./Google reviews

…a lively day of boating!

Jefferson Oliveira/Google reviews

The lake has various non-wake zones, so you can drop an anchor and just enjoy a relaxing float for a few hours.

Holly Baumer/Google reviews

Despite its name, the lake is kayak friendly with smooth waters.

Rough River Lake/Facebook In fact, the lake has been used in the past to host kayak races.

Whether it’s sunrise or golden hour, the views at this lake are magnificent.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park/Facebook

To remember your trip to Rough River, snag a souvenir at the Rough River Dam State Resort Park Gift Shop!

Rough River Dam Lodge/Facebook

One thing’s for sure, a day at Rough River is a day well spent.

Chad Eastin/Google reviews

Ready for your day out on the water? To make a reservation at the Rough River Dam State Resort, click here.

Rough River Lake/Facebook

Rough River Dam State Resort/TripAdvisor

Charlie c./Google reviews

Jefferson Oliveira/Google reviews

Holly Baumer/Google reviews

In fact, the lake has been used in the past to host kayak races.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park/Facebook

Rough River Dam Lodge/Facebook

Chad Eastin/Google reviews

Have a favorite lake that isn’t well-known? Feel free to share your secret spot with us in the comment below!

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Address: Rough River Lake, Kentucky, USA