A Tranquil Escape: Bert T. Combs Lake
Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Kentucky lies a quiet gem of natural beauty and local history: Bert T. Combs Lake. More than just a serene body of water, the lake is woven into the story of Kentucky’s past—named in honor of a man whose life left a lasting mark on the Commonwealth. If you're seeking a peaceful outdoor getaway with a touch of heritage, this is a destination worth your attention.
Location & Setting
Bert T. Combs Lake is located in Clay County, near Manchester, Kentucky, on Beech Creek Road east of the city. The lake spans about 31 acres (some sources cite 36 acres) and sits amid forested ridges and wildlife habitat.
What Visitors Can Do
- Fishing & Boating: The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and anglers can fish from shore or from boats using electric motors (internal combustion motors are prohibited). The boat ramp there is paved and can accommodate light trailerable recreational boats.
- Paddling & Quiet Exploration: Kayaks and canoes are ideal for exploring the calm waters. The absence of gas motors lends to a more peaceful experience.
- Hiking & Trails: Adjacent natural areas offer scenic trails. For instance, the Bert T. Combs Equestrian Trail offers horseback riding, picnicking, and opportunities to enjoy wildlife and forest scenery.
- Picnic & Park Amenities: While the lake itself has limited amenities, nearby Bert T. Combs City Park, located at 3416 Beech Creek Road in Manchester, provides picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a pleasant setting close to the lake.
- Camping & Nearby Lodging: Visitors staying in Manchester can base themselves at the Governor’s Campground RV Park, which is conveniently located near the trails and the lake. Access & Seasonal Notes
The dam and infrastructure at the lake have required periodic repairs. In fact, the lake was closed for repairs and later reopened for public access in October 2018. During the closure, fish stocking and boating access were paused. Also, the launch ramp remains open year-round, and the shoreline and bank access are available throughout
Who Was Bert T. Combs?
Understanding the man behind the name adds depth to the experience of visiting the lake area.
Early Life & Career
Bertram Thomas “Bert” Combs was born on August 13, 1911, in Manchester, Clay County, Kentucky. He rose from modest beginnings, with early education in local schools, and later earned his law degree from the University of Kentucky.
He served in World War II, and after the war he embarked on a public service path: first as a judge, then elected in 1959 as the 50th Governor of Kentucky, serving until 1963. During his governorship, Combs championed improvements in education, infrastructure, highway development, and civil rights measures.
Later, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, on which he served from 1967 to 1970.
Perhaps among his lasting legacies is his role in helping shape the Kentucky Education Reform Act, a sweeping overhaul of Kentucky’s public school finance system in the early 1990s after litigation over inequities in funding.
Death & Burial
On December 4, 1991, Bert Combs tragically died after his car was swept into the Red River during severe flooding. His final resting place is Beech Creek Cemetery in Manchester, Kentucky. While the lake bearing his name honors his contributions to the state, his grave remains in the local community he always considered home.
