Kentucky / Knott County

Carr Creek Lake Shelters

Closed — Closed for the season. Shelters are open from April through September for reservations.

About

Carr Creek Lake Shelters offers eight group picnic shelters located along Carr Creek Lake in the mountainous region of southeastern Kentucky. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in cooperation with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, these shelters are situated across three distinct recreation areas: Littcarr Recreation Area (Willow, Pin Oak, White Pine, and Dogwood), Dam/Tailwater Area (Sycamore and Poplar), and Marina Area (Laurel and Holly). Each shelter is accessible and equipped with electricity, grills, picnic tables, and lighting. The facilities can accommodate large groups and are ideal for family gatherings, picnics, and day-use activities. Depending on location, shelters provide access to boat ramps, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, accessible fishing piers, and shoreline fishing spots. Restrooms are located near all shelters. The 710-acre Carr Creek Lake offers excellent fishing for crappie, bass, bluegill, and walleye, with trout released in the tailwater during summer months. Boating and water skiing are popular activities on the lake. Hikers can explore a short nature trail in the Dam/Tailwater area or tackle the 6-mile Sugar Branch Trail. The lake is located approximately 16 miles from Hazard and 18 miles from Whitesburg.

Directions

From Hazard, take KY Route 15 south for 17 miles to KY Route 160, then continue 2 miles to Littcarr Recreation Area. Individual shelters are located across three recreation areas along the lake.

Nearby Campgrounds