Cave Run Lake

For dining options near Cave Run Lake, Cattleman’s Roadhouse offers a casual steakhouse experience with hand-cut meats and burgers. Reno's Roadhouse is another popular choice, known for its steakhouse menu and lively atmosphere. For seafood lovers, Creole Kitchen provides a variety of seafood dishes in a cozy setting. Melini Cucina Italian Restaurant offers Italian cuisine with a romantic ambiance, while Don Señor Mexican Bar & Grill serves up Mexican favorites with a casual vibe.

Visitors to Cave Run Lake can choose from several convenient hotels. The Comfort Inn & Suites offers a straightforward stay with free breakfast and a pool. The Best Western Eagles Inn provides a heated indoor pool and free breakfast. The Hampton Inn Morehead features modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and an indoor pool.

Cave Run Lake offers several amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The lake features restrooms and showers at the beach sites, as well as designated picnic areas and barbeque sites along the shoreline. Boat rentals are available at Scott's Creek Marina and Long Bow Marina, allowing visitors to explore the lake fully. Additionally, the surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest provides opportunities for hiking and camping, with free campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cave Run Lake is a hub for outdoor activities. Swimming and boating are popular pastimes, with two main beaches, Zilpo and Twin Knobs, offering swimming areas and boat ramps. Fishing is also a major draw, with a variety of fish species present in the lake. Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant in the surrounding forest, providing scenic routes for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy jet skiing and tubing on the lake, while horseback riding and ATV trails offer additional adventure options.

Cave Run Lake and its surrounding facilities offer some accessibility features. The beaches and parking areas are generally accessible, though the terrain can be challenging in some areas. Restrooms and showers at the beach sites are available, but it's advisable to check for specific accessibility features before visiting. The nearby hotels and restaurants also provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, ensuring a more inclusive experience for visitors.

Parking at Cave Run Lake is generally accessible, with designated parking areas near the beaches and marinas. A small fee is required to enter the beaches, and parking is typically available for a nominal charge. The parking lots are well-maintained and offer easy access to the lake's amenities. For those planning to visit the beaches, it's advisable to arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak summer months.

Cave Run Lake is known for its diverse aquatic life, including musky, a prized game fish. The lake's construction began in 1965 and was completed in 1973, serving as a significant flood control measure for the Licking River valley. The surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest is rich in history and natural beauty, offering numerous opportunities for exploration and adventure. The lake's beaches, such as Twin Knobs, host summer amphitheater programs and campground activities, making it a lively destination during the warmer months.

Cave Run Lake is surrounded by attractions that complement its natural beauty. The Daniel Boone National Forest offers extensive hiking trails and opportunities for horseback riding. The nearby town of Morehead provides access to local shops and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the scenic Zilpo Road, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest. For those interested in history, the remains of an old iron furnace can be found along the drive to Zilpo Beach.