Kentucky has some of the most enchanting spots to relax in the U.S. Some you’ll find at well-traveled Kentucky State Parks; others are hidden gems you might have to search a bit to find. Whatever you’re searching for, you’re sure to find it right here in the Bluegrass State! Here are 11 hidden parks and places in Kentucky that will completely enchant you.

1. Blue Licks Battlefield
Nyttend/Wikimedia Commons
This campground, park, and lodge with a restaurant are located at 10299 Mayesville Road in Carlisle. It is the site of the 1782 Kentucky militia defeat via British and Native American troops, so the area is alive with history. The thought that a battle of such brutality could take place here is truly surprising given the gorgeous atmosphere. The food at the lodge is quite delicious if you don’t feel like packing a meal. You're sure to be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful scenery Bluegrass Battlefield.
2. The Chain Rock at Pine Mountain
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Located off 1050 State Park Road, this beautiful portion of Kentucky can compel you to stay for days. The bountiful Pine trees are fragrant and the trails allow you to disappear from society for a while and commune with nature. There are an abundance of places to visit in the forest. Each one can be magical to an individual, so pick your own destination and absorb the beauty. Come and take the scenic hike to this wondrous place!
3. Caspian Terns and Lake Barkley Lodge
Land Between the Lakes KY/TN/Flickr
Lake Barkley is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. The resort is a great place to stay while in the area. This serene part of our beautiful Kentucky gives visitors all the modern conveniences in the middle of nature. This is a perfect place to get away for a few days. Reservations can be made at 270-924-1131.
4. Carter Caves
JWorst/Flickr
Though not as popular as Mammoth Cave, Carter Caves is just as incredible to visit. Cruise under the earth in an underground river and you will see seemingly magical surroundings. The entire area is rich in nature and wildlife, but the underground river is really something special. Come and take one of the amazing hikes at Carter Caves State Park!
5. Buckhorn Lake
LouisvilleUSACE/Flickr
Buckhorn has some fantastic fishing and beautiful nature trails ready to be explored. During the summer, there's perhaps no better place to be in Kentucky, than Buckhorn Lake. Come and enjoy a swim in its cool, blue waters!

Related Stories

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Kentucky

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Kentucky

 This Is The Most Kentucky Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

This Is The Most Kentucky Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

 Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In Kentucky

Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In Kentucky
6. Cedar Pond Pavilion at Bernheim Forest
Eric Eckel/Flickr
Bernheim Forest is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are some gorgeous trails, bridges and lakes in Bernheim, along with a wondrous arboretum. Bernheim is a great place to fish, take nature walks and just absorb your surroundings. The Cedar Pond Pavilion is a wonderful, hidden little spot, that's a great place to go with your thoughts (or, hide from the benevolent giants who call Bernheim home!).
7. Doe Run Lake
Palmer Dahman/Google Local
One of Kentucky's most beautiful hidden parks, Doe Run Lake is located at 501 Bullock Pen Road in Covington. While well-known to locals, not many outside of Covington know about Doe Run Lake; however, it is precisely this lack of publicity that makes it the perfect area to enjoy some peace and quiet. The lake has plenty of fish and the surrounding trees provide a blanket of foliage to hike under and around. If you are looking for something a little off the beaten path, Doe Run is nice and quiet.
8. Lost River Cave
SonnyandSandy/Flickr
One of the most under-the-radar hidden places in Kentucky, Lost River Cave has an underwater river tour that is a bucket list must. On the tour, you'll discover an enchanting underground world of unique formations and clear water. During the spring months, there is a beautiful butterfly garden, but there are hiking trails all year round that are available for adventure-seekers.
9. Swift Camp Creek Overlook at Red River Gorge
Anthony/Flickr
The Swift Camp Creek Overlook at Red River Gorge is the equivalent of a Kentucky mic drop, as it's easily one of the most spectacular nature scenes you'll ever behold. The views -- especially if there's a little fog in the air on a crisp, autumn morning, will render you utterly speechless. You can access this overlook via the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.
10. Green River Bluffs at Mammoth Cave
John Bellovary/AllTrails
Though this cave system is renowned around the world, there are a lot of places to explore here. The park is massive -- not just the cave -- and it is brimming with nature, wildlife, and areas of extreme beauty. Something that might surprise you are the number of above-ground overlooks and wonders at Mammoth Cave, including the Green River Bluff. This overlook offers visitors a gorgeous view all year-round, with even winter providing breathtaking views.
11. Kentucky Castle
The Kentucky Castle
Once known as Martin Castle, this enchanting medieval castle sitting at 230 Pisgah Pike in Versailles is now a veritable Bluegrass State destination. The Kentucky Castle is a premier boutique hotel, world-class restaurant, renowned spa, and sought-after event venue that offers a wide range of experiences throughout the year. From rooftop workout classes to themed dinners, the Kentucky Castle is now the king of creative events and experiences on its property, which, it should be noted, is an incredibly beautiful slice of the Bluegrass State.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or just some time alone in nature, each one of these hidden parks in Kentucky offers a unique and memorable experience. Which one would you like to spend the weekend at? Or, what is your favorite place to relax in Kentucky?

For more beautiful places in the Bluegrass State, be sure to check out these relaxing places.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hidden parks and places in Kentucky

Sarah | July 24, 2021

What are the best hidden parks in Kentucky?

We're quite partial to Bernheim Arboretum, located in beautiful Clermont, Kentucky. Bernheim Arboretum is one of those places that will completely sweep you off your feet. Not only is it incredibly beautiful, but it’s wondrous, too, with winsome woodland giants found all over its gorgeous, 16,137-acre grounds. In the fall, the forest comes alive with golden yellows, bold oranges, and vibrant reds, for a delightful experience that will have you completely enchanted bu the Bluegrass State. Recently, the park added a new children’s playground to the mix, and it’s just as dreamy and whimsical as you’d expect. Bernheim’s Playcosystem, a new 10-acre natural playground, is a magical and hidden world of fun and adventure for Kentucky's littlest explorers and outdoor enthusiasts.

How many Kentucky State Parks are there?

There are 49 beautiful state parks maintained by the Kentucky Department of Parks. This system has been referred to as "the nation's finest" and experiences more repeat business annually than those of any other U.S. state. The Kentucky State Parks are one of our state's most treasured assets, and we love each and every one of them. If you're looking for recommendations, definitely check out this roundup of some of our favorite Kentucky State Parks.

What are the most-visited parks in Kentucky?

It should come as no surprise that Cumberland Falls State Park is the Bluegrass State's most popular state park, attracting upwards of 750,000 visitors each year. Folks come from far and wide for the incredible trails, scenic overlooks, abundant river recreation, gorgeous canyons and rock formations, and, of course, the waterfalls. Measuring approximately 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, Cumberland Falls has earned its moniker of “the Niagara of the South.” If you visit during certain times of the month, you'll be treated to a moonbow. This extremely rare phenomenon, formed by the mist in the air from the falls, is one of only two naturally occurring moonbows in the entire world, and it's an experience you can have right here in Kentucky!

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
The Kentucky Castle, 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383, USA
Green River Bluffs Trail, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Red River Gorge Geological Area, Robbie Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA
Lost River Cave, 2818 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA
Doe Run Lake, 1501 Bullock Pen Rd, Covington, KY 41017, USA
Bernheim Forest, Kentucky, USA
Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Buckhorn Lake, Kentucky, USA
Pine Mountain, KY 40808, USA
Lake Barkley, United States
Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, 10299 Maysville Rd, Carlisle, KY 40311, USA