About OLD KUTTAWA
Overview Old Kuttawa Recreation Area is on the northern shores of Lake Barkley, near the narrow canal linking it to Kentucky Lake. Together, these two reservoirs combine to create one of the greatest freshwater recreation areas in the country. Take pleasure in a day of picnicking or soak up the sun at the swimming beach, either way Old Kuttawa provides an ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best. Recreation The half-mile Anderson Woodland Trail is an enjoyable footpath for birding and viewing the great tall trees of the region. Other activities include swimming, fishing and boating. Facilities Two large picnic pavilions, an ampitheater, a playground, restrooms and paved parking are available. Plenty of picnic tables and grills are scattered around the recreation area, with ample shade for sunny summer days. **In order to reserve the ampitheater, you must reserve site 1 (large shelter). Natural Features Lake Barkley spans 57,900 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline and offers warm water temperatures during summer months that make for comfortable recreation. Running parallel to Barkley Lake is its neighbor, Kentucky Lake, with the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area nestled between. Nearby Attractions See the astonishing Floodwall Murals in the town of Paducah. It is a gallery that captures Paduca's rich history.
How to Get There
From Nashville, take I-24 West to Exit 40. Turn left on 62 and then right on Highway 295. Follow Highway 295 to recreation area entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to OLD KUTTAWA
Heading to OLD KUTTAWA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for OLD KUTTAWA?
No central reservation system listed for OLD KUTTAWA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232661) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OLD KUTTAWA?
From Nashville, take I-24 West to Exit 40. Turn left on 62 and then right on Highway 295. Follow Highway 295 to recreation area entrance.
How do I contact OLD KUTTAWA?
You can reach the park at phone: LAKE BARKLEY RESOURCE MANAGERS OFFICE: 270-362-4236.
References & Official Resources
