Fishtrap Lake Shelters
Closed — Closed for the season. Shelters typically operate from spring through fall. Reservations available through Recreation.gov when open.
Special Weather Statement issued April 12 at 3:24AM EDT by NWS Jackson KY
Low humidity, sunny to mostly sunny skies, unseasonably warm temperatures, very dry fuels, and breezy conditions will combine to result in Elevated Fire Danger this afternoon into early evening. Winds will diminish and humidities will gradually recover after sunset. Remember that Kentucky regulations make it illegal to burn between the hours of 6 AM and 6 PM within 150 feet of a woodland or brushland during the Spring Forest Fire Season that runs until April 30th.
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
Amenities
| Water | — |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $50 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (606) 437-7496 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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