Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCamping

Best Time to Visit

HL1 Lake

Beaver Dam, KY · Boat Ramp · Public

HL1 Lake is a public boat ramp on Peabody Wildlife Management Area near Beaver Dam, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Yes

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Kentucky. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Beaver Dam.

Paddlers visiting Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Kentucky can launch from HL1 Lake, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and camping.

HL1 Lake sits about 5 min from Beaver Dam, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make HL1 Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access HL1 Lake?
HL1 Lake is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at HL1 Lake?
HL1 Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at HL1 Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit HL1 Lake?
The best time to paddle at HL1 Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at HL1 Lake?
Water conditions at HL1 Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is HL1 Lake good for beginners?
Yes, HL1 Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.3176, -86.8767

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Beaver Dam
Get Directions

37.3176, -86.8767

Best Paddling in Kentucky

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for HL1 Lake

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!