Lake Cumberland
Researched by Ashley, Jennifer, and Vanessa
Mr. Barnett's 5th Grade (1996-97)
Pulaski Elementary, Somerset, KY
The Cumberland River originates in the Cumberland Mountains of eastern Kentucky, winds southwestward into central Tennessee, then northwestward back into Kentucky. It empties into the Ohio River near Smithland, Kentucky. The Cumberland is about 690 miles long. It was named on April 17, 1750 by Dr. Thomas Walker in honor of William Augustus, the Duke of Cumberland. Walker and his exploration party from Virginia first encountered the river at Pine Gap in Bell County.
When Wolf Creek Dam was built in 1950 for flood control, Lake Cumberland was formed. The lake brings lots of vacationers to our area. These visitors come from around the state and from surrounding states, too. They come to enjoy boating, skiing, and swimming. It is also a good place to fish. Lake Cumberland is considered one of the best water recreation areas in the Southeastern United States.
For more information about Lake Cumberland try one of these sites:
Official Kentucky Vacation Guide
