About Russell County
Russell County, Kentucky is home to the heart of Lake Cumberland, the 9th largest man-made reservoir in the United States. Located in southern Kentucky, the cities of Russell Springs and Jamestown comprise our county, along with several other small, rural communities.
Russell County prides itself on being a safe, friendly, and enjoyable place to live, work, and play. With a population of nearly 18,000, Russell County offers excellent opportunities in the industry, agriculture, education, and commercial business, all while maintaining a warm, small-town, family atmosphere.
From lake visitors to industrial clients, Russell County fills the bill. The county covers 253 square miles near the heart of Lake Cumberland. We are close to both I-65 and I-75, and with the Cumberland Parkway (Louie B. Nunn Parkway) and U.S. Highway 127, we have easy access to north/south and east/west destinations.
Residential developments on the shores of Lake Cumberland attract many home-buyers and investors. Our labor market includes technical training available for specific needs employers. There are business opportunities and jobs for our citizens and for nearby communities.
Russell County was formed in 1826. Jamestown is the county seat and the City of Russell Springs is only a short 6 miles away with our friendly sidewalks connecting the two. Our biggest resource other than the people is Lake Cumberland. The Lake, formed by the Cumberland River and Wolf Creek Dam, has over 1200 miles of shoreline (more than the State of Florida) and is the 3rd largest lake east of the Mississippi.
Lake Cumberland is known to be the houseboat capital of the world with the highest number of luxury houseboats of any lake in the United States. Additionally, many nationally recognized manufacturers of houseboats are located on Lake Cumberland. Besides houseboats and boating in general, fishing on Lake Cumberland and the Cumberland River below Wolf Creek Dam offers anything from a record size Stripper Bass to your limit on river trout. If you like the outdoors, you’re going to love Russell County.
Although small in size, we have a huge community spirit. We take great pride in our County and want you to know that the welcome mat is always out. Come visit us for a day or a lifetime.