Laurel River Lake, on London District, with its cliff-lined shores and quiet coves, is a favorite destination for thousands of visitors each year. They come to boat, fish, swim, and relax at one of the deepest and cleanest lakes in Kentucky.

The 5,600-acre lake, begun in 1964, was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Nashville District). The lake provides hydroelectric power, safe drinking water, and recreation opportunities. The Forest Service and the Army Corps of Engineers have cooperated in the ongoing work of developing public recreation facilities. Today, most of the lake is managed by the Forest Service, London Ranger District, while the Corps of Engineers oversees the operation of Laurel River Dam and recreation facilities at the dam site. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife is responsible for managing fishing on the lake.

The lake provides excellent fishing for black bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, walleye, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Seven launch ramps provide access to the lake. Two marinas, located at Grove and Holly Bay recreation areas, are open year round.

The quiet bays and backwaters of the lake are good places to view wildlife. The lake has a resident population of giant Canada geese.