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Lake Malone, Kentucky, USA

Lake Malone is situated in the heart of the Kentucky wilderness, part of the “Bluegrass, Blues and Barbecue” tourism region. Shaped like a large sideways “Y,” Lake Malone spans Logan, Muhlenberg and Todd counties. It is surrounded by dramatic 50-foot sandstone cliffs and thick woodlands. Lake Malone was created for flood control and recreation by impounding the waters of Rocky Creek. The project was a cooperative effort…
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    • All About Lake Malone, KY

    Lake Locations: USA - US South Region - Kentucky - Bluegrass, Blues & Barbecue Region, KY -

    Lake Malone is situated in the heart of the Kentucky wilderness, part of the “Bluegrass, Blues and Barbecue” tourism region. Shaped like a large sideways “Y,” Lake Malone spans Logan, Muhlenberg and Todd counties. It is surrounded by dramatic 50-foot sandstone cliffs and thick woodlands.

    Lake Malone was created for flood control and recreation by impounding the waters of Rocky Creek. The project was a cooperative effort of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Federal Soil Conservation Service. The Rocky Creek Dam was completed in 1961, forming 826-acre Lake Malone with 26 miles of shoreline. The lake’s average depth of 17 feet and maximum depth of 40 feet make it perfect for a range of recreational activities: swimming, boating, wake boarding, water skiing, canoeing and kayaking.

    Lake Malone State Park is located on the northern arm of the lake. Facilities include campgrounds and picnic tables, along with a swimming beach, boat ramp and dock. It is managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, an organization that keeps the area immaculately maintained. Not surprisingly, real estate properties and vacation rentals are in high demand. Many offer breathtaking lakeside views and access to various riparian trails.

    Hiking is one of the most relaxing things to do at Lake Malone State Park. The Laurel Trail winds for 1.5 miles through holly, mountain laurel, dogwood trees and assorted wildflowers. It also passes by several Native American historic sites and rock shelters; with a little imagination, visitors can transport themselves to a world without modern technology. The Wildflower Trail provides a 1/4-mile path of interpretive pleasure, ideal for casual strolling. This reserve offers a total of 338 scenic acres of public lands. Park amenities include restrooms, picnic shelters, grills and a playground. Pontoons, speed boats and pedal boats can be rented conveniently at the pier.

    Fishing is unquestionably Lake Malone’s most notable pastime, as it is teeming with bluegill, largemouth bass, redear sunfish and channel catfish. Anglers can also trawl these waters for green sunfish, bullhead, warmouth and spotted gar. Less common species include bowfin, gizzard shad, spotted sucker and bluntnose minnow. There is a private marina and launching dock in addition to the public facilities, but guests should note that it requires a small fee.

    East of Lake Malone, the Pennyrille State Forest makes for a wonderful day trip. Established in 1930, these woodlands are made up of 14,648 acres of forest in Christian, Hopkins and Caldwell Counties. Maintained by the Kentucky Division of Forestry, Pennyrille State Forest is home to a number of cooperative projects with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to restore floundering grouse and turkey populations. Hunting and fishing are permitted throughout these lands, as is camping. Numerous trails are available for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding. ATVs are prohibited.

    The majority of Lake Malone is located in Muhlenberg County, formed in 1798 and named after Pennsylvanian revolutionary war hero John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg. A smaller portion of the body of water falls under Todd County, founded in 1820. This 376 square mile tract of land was named for Colonel John Todd, who died at the Battle of Blue Lick. The last part of Lake Malone can be found in Logan County, home to the 62-acre Baker Natural Area and the 41-acre Logan County Glade State Nature Preserve. Various museums, self-guided walking tour and golf courses are available throughout these three counties.

    Lake Malone is one of Kentucky’s best loved and most frequently visited lakes for a reason. Sparkling waters, gorgeous grounds and a rich history make it perfect for lake lovers of all tastes and backgrounds. Rent a cabin or purchase a real estate property beside Lake Malone’s tranquil shores for a trip guaranteed to recharge your batteries and calm your soul.

    Things to Do at Lake Malone

    These are some activities in the Lake Malone, KY area visitors can enjoy:

    • Vacation Rentals
    • Fishing
    • Boating
    • Swimming
    • Beach
    • Canoeing
    • Kayaking
    • Water Skiing
    • Wakeboarding
    • Golf
    • Camping
    • Campground
    • Picnicking
    • Cabin Rentals
    • Hiking
    • Horseback Riding
    • Hunting
    • Waterfall
    • Wildlife Viewing
    • Birding
    • State Park
    • State Forest
    • Museum
    • Playground

    What Kind of Fish Are in Lake Malone?

    Lake Malone has been known to have the following fish species:

    • Bass
    • Black Bass
    • Bluegill
    • Bowfin
    • Catfish
    • Channel Catfish
    • Gar
    • Gizzard Shad
    • Largemouth Bass
    • Redear Sunfish (Shellcracker)
    • Shad
    • Spotted Gar
    • Sucker
    • Sunfish
    • Warmouth
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    Find Places to Stay at Lake Malone

    If you’re considering a Lake Malone lake house rental or hotel, we’ve made it super easy to find the best rates and compare vacation accommodations at a glance. Save time using this interactive map below.

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    More Sites to Book a Lake Malone Vacation

    Our interactive Lake Malone lodging map above is an easy tool for comparing VRBO rental homes and nearby hotels with Booking.com, but there could be times when you need to expand your search for different types of accommodations. Here are some other lake lodging partners we recommend:

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    Lake Malone Statistics & Helpful Links

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    Lake Type: Artificial Reservoir, Dammed

    Water Level Control: Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

    Surface Area: 826 acres

    Shoreline Length: 26 miles

    Normal Elevation (Full Pond): 450 feet

    Average Depth: 17 feet

    Maximum Depth: 40 feet

    Completion Year: 1961

    Drainage Area: 28 sq. miles

    Trophic State: Eutrophic

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