Cranks Creek Lake, body of water
Cranks Creek Lake, also known as Herb Smith Lake, is a small reservoir in Harlan County, Kentucky that covers about 219 acres. Built in 1963 on a creek that feeds into the Martins Fork River, it is surrounded by hardwood forests and steep hillsides, with boat ramps and shoreline trails for exploration.
The lake was built in the early 1960s with an earthen dam completed in 1963, standing about 120 feet high to control flooding. The area has recovered from earlier mining damage through restoration efforts that include forest replanting and stream rehabilitation to improve water quality.
The lake's name comes from the creek that feeds it, tied to the area's mining heritage. Today, it serves as a quiet gathering place where families and anglers come to spend unhurried time surrounded by water and forest.
Wear sturdy shoes for trails and bring sunscreen and water for sunny days, as the shoreline paths can be steep and exposed. The lake has two boat ramps and rental boats are available; motorboats over ten horsepower must move at slow speeds to protect the environment and water quality.
The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout by conservation agencies several times each year, making it a favorite spot for anglers seeking this species. Few visitors realize the water level changes seasonally depending on rainfall and water management needs, which can affect fishing conditions and boat access.
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