Small-town Eddyville offers relaxed lakeside living
The community of Eddyville occupies a corner of Kentucky Lakes, a region that attracts visitors with its recreational opportunities. This community on the northern shores of Lake Barkley is known in part for Venture River Water Park, a major tourism driver. Residents, many of them seasonal, enjoy days on the lake without too much hubbub. "Sometimes when you go to lake communities, there's a lot of traffic and it still has kind of an urban feel to it, but with Eddyville, it's very relaxed," says Jody Norwood, director of the Lake Barkley Tourist Commission. "It's very easy to find your own corner of the lake, and it's got boats of all sizes. You're just as likely to find somebody out there in a kayak or canoe, as you are somebody on a multi-level houseboat."
Lake homes with boat slips and landside ranch-styles
Many ranch-style homes north of U.S. Route 62 are perched on meandering residential streets, often set back from the street with spacious, manicured lawns. There is also room to build, with open lots ranging anywhere from about half an acre to upwards of 40 acres. Eddyville's median single-family home price is about $220,000, while lakeside properties may cost up to a million. Clustered on the south side, they often come with docks and boat slips.
Two major lakes and a sprawling recreation area suit outdoor lovers
Waterfront residents have a short walk to private docks. For everyone else, says Norwood, there's plenty of public access on Lake Barkley, including several boat ramps and marinas. "Even if you don't live directly on the lake, there's still a great benefit to the people who live in the area," he says. Lake Barkley connects via canal to Kentucky Lake, another sprawling waterway to the west. In the middle, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a centerpiece of the area. It encompasses approximately 170,000 acres of forest, wetlands and bison prairie and attracts hikers, equestrians, campers and boaters. Venture River Water Park is western Kentucky's only water park, and loved equally by locals and tourists. Thrill-seekers and families can both participate, with attractions ranging from the Triple Mania Speed Slides to the Soak City Kiddie Pool.
Fast food, waterfront eats and small businesses nearby
Locals have about a dozen dining options within a 3-mile radius, ranging from fast-food drive-throughs to waterfront patios. Some may have shorter hours in the slower winter season and longer hours in the busy summer. Several are located on the commercial U.S. Route 62 corridor, while Hu-B's is a staple on Lake Barkley. It serves casual menu items like burgers, hot dogs and fried seafood baskets and hosts live bands on the weekends. Food Giant is centrally located in town, joining a few mom-and-pop shops, including The Shire Bookstore and The Flower Basket & Gifts. Walmart Supercenter is about 10 miles east in Princeton.
Public schools earn B grades and offer leadership programs
The Lyon County Schools system includes Lyon County Elementary, Middle and High — all based in Eddyville. The elementary and middle schools earn overall B grades from Niche, while the high school earns a B-minus. High school juniors and seniors may participate in the Lake Barkley Chamber of Commerce's youth leadership program, which provides hands-on experiences with local businesses and civic leaders. The West Kentucky Educational Cooperative serves adult learners, and the Lyon County Public Library offers additional programs, events and clubs for various ages.
Founder's Day and fireworks light up Eddyville summers
Founder's Day is a week-long affair in September celebrating Eddyville's history and community. The day itself features food trucks, children's inflatables and a parade. Several fireworks shows light up the night throughout the summer season. Norwood says new traditions may be in the works for 2026. "We're hoping to add some things like a hot air balloon glow and some other things that we're looking forward to," he says.
Car travel is essential but highways are close
Eddyville is car-dependent, with Interstate 24 and U.S. Routes 62 and 641 serving as the main arteries. Bus routes aren't available, but Pennyrile Allied Community Services provides scheduled rides. The closest commercial flights can be found at Barkley Regional Airport, less than 45 miles west via I-24. Family medical care is available in town, while the closest emergency room is at Caldwell Medical Center, about 10 miles east in Princeton.
