Dam Area Overlook Rocky Banks is a freshwater snorkel site located at Barren River Lake. The topography features steep rocky bluffs that extend into the water, creating submerged rock walls and crevices to explore. The site reaches depths between 2 and 10 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres. Snorkelers can access the site from either the shore or by boat, with the main area located approximately 50 metres from the bank. Conditions vary, with moderate currents present. Due to the proximity of the dam, snorkelers should remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Facilities including parking and toilets are available for visitors.

Pikes Ridge in Barren River Lake offers a freshwater diving experience along a rocky shoreline. The site features rocky outcrops and harder substrates that extend into the water, with depths ranging from 2 to 15 metres. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions, including thermoclines and low visibility. The site is accessible via a shore entry and is suitable for beginners. Divers must remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Typical dives last approximately 45 minutes, and the location is also suitable for snorkelling with a rating of 2 out of 5.

Holmes Bend Swimming Beach is located at the southern end of Barren River Lake. This site features artificial reef structures submerged within the freshwater environment, providing a distinct topography for divers and snorkellers. Entry is via the shore. Conditions vary, and water temperatures can be cold in early spring, reaching approximately 60°F in March, which necessitates appropriate thermal protection. The site is suitable for beginners, though users should remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Facilities available at the location include parking, toilets, showers, a rinse station, a cafe, and boat charter services.

Clifty Creek Swimming Hole is a freshwater site located on Barren River Lake, characterised by dramatic limestone cliffs and a rocky bottom. The site is suitable for beginners, offering shore access for both diving and snorkelling. Depths range from 1 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of thermoclines, as cooler water layers exist below 4.5 to 9 metres and again near 18 metres. Visibility typically ranges between 5 and 9 metres. Hazards include boat traffic, cold water, entanglement risks, and low visibility. Typical dive times are approximately 120 minutes.

Caney Fork Island Beach is a freshwater snorkeling site located on Barren River Lake. Accessible only by boat, the site features a gentle beach slope that leads into shallow waters. Snorkelers can expect depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility varies between 3 and 9 metres. Divers and snorkelers should remain aware of boat traffic and potential entanglement hazards in the area. The site is suitable for beginners looking for a relaxed experience, with typical sessions lasting around 45 minutes. Water temperatures at the surface during summer months range from 24 to 29 degrees Celsius.

Harmon Creek Cove is a deep-water site located on Barren River Lake near the Wolf Creek Dam. The area is characterised by submerged rock formations and various underwater structures. Divers and snorkellers can expect visibility ranging from 3 to 5 metres. Conditions include mild currents and the presence of thermoclines, with water temperatures potentially cold outside of the summer months. Access to this site requires a boat. Due to the nature of the area, divers should remain aware of boat traffic. The site is suitable for beginners and offers a typical dive duration of 90 minutes.

Cemetery Island in Barren River Lake is a historical site featuring submerged foundations from when the lake was flooded. The rocky perimeter of the island functions as an artificial reef, offering an interesting topography for exploration. Divers and snorkellers can expect depths ranging from 2 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres. Access is by boat only, as the site is located 2414 metres from the shore. Conditions are variable, with mild currents and visibility between 3 and 9 metres. A thermocline may be present, affecting water temperatures at different depths. Hazards include boat traffic, potential entanglement, and low visibility. This site is suitable for intermediate divers.