Marinas Around Burnside
Burnside is one of the best-positioned towns on Lake Cumberland when it comes to lake access, with several full-service marinas right at your doorstep.
Burnside Marina
Located at 680 W. Lakeshore Dr., Burnside Marina sits at the gateway to Lake Cumberland and offers a wide range of rentals including pontoons, houseboats, and fishing boats. It’s conveniently adjacent to General Burnside Island State Park, making it a natural home base for a day — or a weekend — on the water.
Safe Harbor Burnside
A full-service facility offering both open and covered wet slips, transient slips, and small boat rentals through Safe Harbor Rentals. During the summer season, there’s also a lakeside café and a Ship’s Store on-site — a nice bonus if you need to grab supplies or grab a bite before heading out.
Lee’s Ford Marina Resort
Located about four miles west of Somerset on Fishing Creek, Lee’s Ford is a complete resort complex with a motel, cabins, restaurant, pool, and a well-equipped marina. Rental options include houseboats, pontoons, ski boats, fishing boats, and jet skis.
Houseboat Rentals: What You Need to Know
Lake Cumberland has a well-earned reputation as the Houseboating Capital of the World, and renting a houseboat is one of the most popular ways to experience it — whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week.
Where to Rent
Options in and near Burnside include Burnside Marina, Safe Harbor Burnside, and the well-known State Dock Marina (based in Jamestown but worth the mention for its massive fleet).
Pricing Tips
- Summer (June–August) is peak season and carries the highest rates
- Spring (March–May) and early fall (after Labor Day through October) offer better deals with equally beautiful scenery
- Splitting the cost among a larger group is one of the easiest ways to make houseboating budget-friendly
Booking & Cancellation Policies
Policies vary by marina, but most require prepayment in full at booking. Be aware that cancellations within 48 hours of arrival are typically non-refundable. Always read the fine print before booking — and book early, especially for summer weekends.
Fishing on Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland is well-known for excellent fishing, with largemouth bass, crappie, striped bass, and catfish among the most popular catches.
Do You Need a License?
Yes — all anglers age 16 and older need a valid Kentucky fishing license to fish public waters.
Licenses can be purchased online through the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources (fw.ky.gov) or at local license vendors.
Free Fishing Days
Mark your calendars — the first Saturday and Sunday in June are Kentucky’s Free Fishing Days, when no license is required. All other regulations still apply.
Key Regulations to Know
- Size and bag limits apply to most species — always check current regulations before heading out
- The Kentucky Fishing & Boating Guide is available at fw.ky.gov and at license vendors — keep a copy in your boat
- Fishing without a license can result in fines of $200 or more, so don’t skip this step
Pro tip: Download the KDFWR mobile app to scan your license, get real-time alerts, and access regulations from anywhere on the lake.
General Burnside Island State Park
One of the most unique things about Burnside? It’s home to Kentucky’s only island state park.
General Burnside Island State Park covers 430 acres in the middle of Lake Cumberland and was named for Union General Ambrose Burnside, who patrolled the Cumberland River during the Civil War. Today, it’s a peaceful retreat with a little something for everyone.
What’s at the Park:
- Campground: 94 sites with water and electric hookups, picnic tables, grills, and modern shower/restroom facilities. Open mid-March through mid-November. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
- Boat Launch: A five-lane launch ramp for easy lake access
- Golf Course: An award-winning 18-hole regulation course, recognized as one of Kentucky’s best public courses. Pro shop and cart rentals available.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters: Great for family outings or group gatherings
- Playground: On-site for the younger visitors
Getting There: The park is accessible via U.S. Highway 27, just south of Burnside.
*Some sites may be available only from the campground on a first-come-first-served basis.
Quick Reference
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| Burnside Marina | 680 W. Lakeshore Dr. · (606) 561-4223 |
| KY Fishing License | fw.ky.gov · Residents $23/yr · Non-residents $47/yr |
| Free Fishing Days | First Saturday & Sunday in June |
| General Burnside State Park | U.S. Hwy 27 South · Open mid-March to mid-November |
| Park Reservations | kentuckystateparks.reserveamerica.com |
Have a favorite marina, fishing spot, or houseboat tip we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments — locals always know best.
