Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Leatherwood
Leatherwood is a public boat ramp on Cave Run Lake near Wellington, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. 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
Limited
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Cave Run Lake near Wellington, Kentucky. calm and sheltered conditions.
Leatherwood provides shoreline access to Cave Run Lake in Kentucky, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
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.
Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and camping and ada accessible.
Getting here from Wellington takes about 5 min, putting Leatherwood within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Leatherwood ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Leatherwood?
- Leatherwood is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. The entrance fee is Yes.
- What activities are available at Leatherwood?
- Leatherwood 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 Leatherwood?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, camping, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Leatherwood?
- The best time to paddle at Leatherwood is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Leatherwood?
- Water conditions at Leatherwood include calm, sheltered.
- Is Leatherwood good for beginners?
- Yes, Leatherwood 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: 38.0337, -83.5158
Quick Facts
- State
- Kentucky
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Wellington
38.0337, -83.5158
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More Paddling on Cave Run Lake
6 other launches on this water body

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Zilpo
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Alfrey
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Nearby Paddling

Skidmore
Kentucky · 1.1 mi
Longbow
Kentucky · 2.7 mi
Beaver Creek
Kentucky · 3.1 mi
Clay Lick
Kentucky · 3.3 mi
Zilpo
Kentucky · 3.5 mi
Alfrey
Kentucky · 4.1 mi