03/08/2007 01:21:31 PM
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boylerchins
Junior Member
Posts: 2
Joined: 03/08/2007
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I just booked a houseboat on Lake Cumberland, but then family
members sent me all this information about a failing dam and low
lake levels with pictures of muddy banks. So, what's the deal?
Is it still good, enjoyable boating? Obviously, you can't just tie
up to trees as we did in the past. I'd appreciate some honest
feedback.
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03/09/2007 06:51:37 AM
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jimg
Admiral
Posts: 367
Joined: 08/13/2006
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They are repairing the dam. I heard a report last night that they
have lowered the water level 42' so far. Can that be correct?
42'? Wow, if what I heard on the report was correct,
I'd say you could see a muddy bank or two. Good luck.
-------------------------
Riverliver
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03/09/2007 11:34:41 AM
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Tonka
Member
Posts: 140
Joined: 02/12/2006
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How ironic. I just got back from the lake about an hour ago. Yes there is a lot more bank showing than normal and there are a lot of unnavigable creeks and coves now. You have to keep in mind that the average depth of the lake is 90 feet and they lower it 30 to 35 feet every winter. This is 10 feet lower than I have ever seen it and I've been going there for 40 years, but there's a lot of lake left. It's 37 feet deep in my slip and you can throw a rock and hit the bank from where I am. Not to mention, you'll see parts of the bank (foundations, tunnels, stairs and structures) that haven't been uncovered since the lake was formed. Don't get me wrong, it's very depressing to see my home away from home so low, but I wouldn't avoid going. Still an amazing and beautiful lake and if the dam is repaired properly, the last time you'll ever see it this low again. Just my opinion, but I'm trying to keep a positive attitude because I couldn't leave even if I wanted to now.
-------------------------
1975 42' Gibson Standard
Lake Cumberland, Kentucky
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03/11/2007 06:17:05 AM
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boylerchins
Junior Member
Posts: 2
Joined: 03/08/2007
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Thanks so much for your reply. I know tourism to the lake must be
down, but I feel a little cheated by State Dock for not mentioning
the drastically different conditions before taking my deposit. I
guess we should have done more research. Buyer beware. We have
cancelled, and may lose $100, we'll see. I hope the dam is repaired
well and quickly so this beautiful spot will be OK. Thanks.
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03/12/2007 12:47:47 PM
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Head Master
Member
Posts: 106
Joined: 10/28/2002
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A friend in Kentucky sent this to me a few weeks ago:
http://static.cnhi.zope.net/flashpromo/somersetkentucky/flashpromo/slideshow/tuttlephotos/JohnTuttle.swf
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03/21/2007 07:37:40 PM
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TRR76
Junior Member
Posts: 1
Joined: 02/08/2007
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We are first time houseboaters this summer and have a reservation
for Lake Cumberland. I too am worried about the low water.
Will the lake still be enjoyable, picturesque? What
about tying up to the shore at nights, etc? My full payment
is due in a few weeks and I'm wondering if we should cancel.
Any thoughts?
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03/22/2007 03:19:10 PM
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Tonka
Member
Posts: 140
Joined: 02/12/2006
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As a first time houseboater and, I assume, first time to Lake Cumberland, you will not notice the difference. It's still a really big lake and is every bit as beautiful as it ever was. The sheer cliffs and rock walls are a little higher and the tree line is further up the bank than normal, but there's a never ending supply of locations to tie-up. I'm not sure what it's down to now, but normally, there's over 1200 miles of shoreline.
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1975 42' Gibson Standard
Lake Cumberland, Kentucky
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05/02/2007 10:41:33 AM
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Lindee
Houseboat Magazine Editor
Posts: 31
Joined: 11/09/2006
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I just returned from a trip to Cumberland last week. Let me reassure you that while the lake has been lowered to relieve pressure on the damn for preventative maintenance, your houseboat vacation is in no jeopardy.
The marinas I visited have all been busy preparing for another season. If anything, the lower level has created a sandy shore for better beaching/tie off opportunities. (Cumberland has generally been known for its rocky banks.)
There are a few spots near head waters where the lake is more shallow that have experienced some problems but the lake community as a whole is working together to accommodate everyone and make this temporary transition a smooth one.
These marinas are not novices when it comes to making changes and adjustments and this isn't the first time that the lake has been lowered. Rest assured that there is plenty of water and ample shoreline for you to enjoy this summer.
-Lindee
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Editor
Houseboat Magazine
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06/14/2007 08:01:59 PM
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OhioNavyCom
Member
Posts: 40
Joined: 02/21/2005
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This is my tenth season as a houseboat owner. Prior to that I rented houseboats. For those that have frequented Lake Cumberland, the "look" is different. I agree with the other poster, for first timers, you will love the beauty.
Did I say beauty? Yes, the lake is lower and there is more shoreland that is beach worthy. Now that the greenery is filling in, no one should be worried about Lake Cumberland.
The water is still deep, and clean as before. The "lay" of the lake, in terms of coves, is now different.
I have been to the lake every weekend since the middle of May. I am going again Fathers day weekend. It is still terrific. I will post more recent pictures for those that want to see. Others have posted pictures and videos throughout the internet. Just do a few searches and you will find them.
I can't wait for the week of July 23rd when I will spend nine days cruising the lake, experiencing the great times my family and I always do.
Although I enjoy the lake without lots of traffic, I am concerned that there "is" less traffic on the weekends. The ramps have been extended, the water temp is great, and all the debris we typically find this time of year is way up on the shore.
Don't miss out on this great season of boating at Lake Cumberland!
Jim Stauffer
OhioNavy.com
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Happiness is houseboating......houseboating at Lake Cumberland!
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08/15/2007 08:42:35 PM
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zilpo55
Junior Member
Posts: 7
Joined: 03/12/2007
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We just returned from a great week on Cumberland. It is exactly as OhioNavyCom said - clean, clear, and deep. Monday thru Friday seemed mighty slow. While we enjoyed the solitude in the coves, I can't help but think that the local businesses are getting a bad rap. We had to buy a new trailer tire in a nearby town on the way down, and the salesman said "there's no water left in that lake!"
I can't think of a reason to stay away if you love boating. Sure, the shorelines look different - very interesting in my opinion. Some cool foliage is starting to grow where the water was. The lake is still deep. Our cove was deep enough to safely jump off the roof. Tons of places to ski, tube, and ride.
This has all been said before. My point is the levels are going to stay this way for the next two years or more, according to the Corps of Engineers. I hope people won't continue to avoid going down there.
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Zilpo55
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09/27/2011 11:27:47 AM
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Purgatory
Junior Member
Posts: 19
Joined: 04/15/2011
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We just got back from renting a house boat from State Dock. This was the first time for me so I can't judge from previous higher water levels. All I can say is beautiful. We had the best time and look forward to doing it again. Only two draw backs... 1, All the other boats seemed to have only guys on them!! Have women been banned from the lake??? We were the only boat with plenty of women ( wives and girl friends) and finally had to be rude to keep the sausage boats away from us. 2. Coming home to my house boat ( 37 Gibson sport), I felt that my Gibson is a little dingy! Over all, I loved the whole trip and look forward to many more!
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