Our Lakes
Energy Lake Overview
Energy Lake lies within Land Between the Lakes near the Energy Lake Campground, creating a calm inland water experience that’s shaped by its earthen dam and quiet shoreline. The lake sits beside the campground and is separated from Lake Barkley by a short drive to the nearby Energy Dam Day Use Area, where boat ramps allow access to both Energy Lake and Lake Barkley.
One of the lake’s defining features is the Energy Lake Trail, a 4.6-mile figure eight route that is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. It weaves through shaded woods and along sections of both Energy Lake and nearby Lake Barkley, offering frequent opportunities for wildlife viewing and observation of changing seasonal colors.
Energy Lake’s water is designated as a no wake zone, which keeps conditions calm and ideal for paddling, casual fishing, and observing waterfowl and other wildlife. Canoes and kayaks are available seasonally for campers to rent from mid-May through mid-October.
Photos on this page courtesy of Scott Raymond
Quick Facts
- Adjacent to Energy Lake Campground with calm waters
- Energy Lake Trail is a 4.6-mile figure eight loop
- Lake is designated no wake for calm conditions
- Canoe and kayak rentals available seasonally for campers
- Boat access nearby at Energy Dam Day Use Area
Good to Know
- Swimming beach and rentals are for registered campers only
- Trails connect to both Energy Lake and Barkley vistas
- No wake rules keep water calm for paddling and fishing
Planning Notes
- Allow extra time for trail plus paddling or fishing
- Peak campground activity is in warmer months
- Bring wildlife viewing gear for calmer lakeside moments
Lakes in lbl
What to Expect at Energy Lake
Energy Lake is a good choice for a relaxed mix of trail time, shoreline views, and calm water recreation. The multi-use Energy Lake Trail can be shortened or extended by choosing the small loop, the larger loop, or both together.
Campers have access to a swimming beach and canoe or kayak rentals during the season, though these are available only to registered campers. The lake itself is posted as a no wake zone, meaning boats travel at idle speed or less to keep wakes minimal, which helps keep paddling and wildlife viewing peaceful.
For boat access beyond the campground, the Energy Dam Day Use Area provides ramps that serve both Energy Lake and Lake Barkley.
