Kentucky / Pike County

Fishtrap Lake Shelters

Closed — Closed for the season. Shelters typically operate from spring through fall. Reservations available through Recreation.gov when open.

About

Fishtrap Lake Shelters provides four picnic shelters available for reservation at this scenic Army Corps of Engineers lake in eastern Kentucky's coal country. Two shelters are located at the Dam Site Recreation Area below the dam, and two more are situated at the Grapevine Recreation Area near the boat ramp. The shelters offer access to excellent fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is surrounded by steep, densely forested Appalachian mountains and is part of the Fishtrap Lake Wildlife Management Area, making it a prime destination for wildlife viewing, particularly white-tailed deer. Boat ramps at both recreation areas provide easy access to the 1,130-acre reservoir. Multiple hiking and horseback riding trails wind through the surrounding wildlife area, with additional developed trails at nearby Lick Creek Recreation Area. Fishtrap Lake was created in 1968 by damming the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River for flood control. The recreation areas provide a peaceful escape in the heart of Appalachian Kentucky, about 20 minutes from downtown Pikeville, which offers additional attractions including Hatfield-McCoy history tours and outdoor activities.

Directions

From US-460/Shelbiana Road, continue approximately five miles, then make a slight right onto KY Route 1789/Fishtrap Road. Continue three miles to the Dam Site Recreation Area. Shelter 1 is the first right turn after entering, approximately one mile below the dam. Shelter 2 is further along the same road near the end of the recreation area. For Grapevine Recreation Area, take State Route 194 at Phyllis. Shelter 3 is approximately 1/4 mile from the entrance, and Shelter 4 is near the boat ramp at the end of the recreation area.

Nearby Campgrounds