Elk Lake Shores is situated in an area of north-central Kentucky that is remote and mostly unpopulated, so wildlife abound.  Deer are so numerous that they seem almost unafraid of humans.  The terrain is hilly and wooded with predominately oak-hickory forests and large red cedars. 

Elk Lake is a 250-acre, man-made recreational lake located within Elk Lake Shores and encircled by 17 miles of gravel roads. 

The area also features Deer Lake, a 17-acre lake restricted to fishing and the use of canoes, kayaks and pedal boats. 

During the winter season (Nov.-Feb.), the level of Elk Lake is lowered to allow property owners to undertake repair and construction projects, such as retaining walls and docks.