Contrary To Its Name, Barren River Lake Is A Lush Oasis In Kentucky
By Sarah McCosham|Published August 25, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Red River Gorge, Mammoth Cave, Cumberland Falls… Kentucky is home to some truly extraordinary natural wonders, and these places all have poetic names that really capture their unique beauty. But there are some places in Kentucky that didn’t get so lucky in the names department, as is the case with Barren River Lake. Located in southern Kentucky, Barren River Lake State Resort Park is home to rolling blue hills, a pristine lake, and abundant wildlife. Don’t let its name deter you; this lush oasis in Kentucky is absolutely spectacular.
Barren River Lake State Park is an underrated treasure in southern Kentucky.
Its main feature, the eponymous Barren River Lake, is a man-made lake created in 1960 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It covers approximately 10,000 acres and has 141 miles of shoreline.
(Horseback riding is popular here, with some truly dreamy forested equestrian trails!)
In terms of wildlife, Barren River State Resort Park offers year-round birding opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Flycatchers, thrushes, and warblers are common in the fall and spring, and bald eagles can be spotted October through March.
And in terms of the lake -- it really doesn't get much better than this. The park is home to a full-service marina, which offers boat rentals for those looking to spend a day on the water.
For those who prefer land to water, the beach at Barren River Lake is an under-the-radar gem. It's uncrowded and expansive, perfect for a relaxing Kentucky beach day.
Don't let its name fool you: Barren River Lake is a flourishing, fertile oasis in southern Kentucky. It's truly one of the Bluegrass State's most dazzling hidden gems.
