Everyone Always Goes to The Beach at Kentucky Dam Village: Go Here Instead

As a landlocked state, you won’t find any traditional beaches in Kentucky, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have any beaches. Personally, I prefer lakeside beaches over coastal beaches; the trick is to find one without a swell of crowds. The beach at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park is one of the most popular beaches in Kentucky, and for good reason! However, if you’re on the hunt for some of the best hidden beaches in Kentucky, you might enjoy Pennyrile Forest State Park. Locals know this summertime haunt, for sure, but it often gets overshadowed by more popular Kentucky State Park beaches. The best part is that it’s only 60 miles east of Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park.

Why Kentucky Dam Village State Park Beach Gets So Crowded

Boasting 120 miles of hiking trails, an 18-hole golf course, and a 160,000-acre lake with a marina, Kentucky Dam Village is easily one of the most popular state parks in Kentucky. Not to mention it also has its own airport! 

The beach is one of the few public-access beaches on Kentucky Lake and offers a picturesque spot to cool off on a hot summer day. It may not be the largest inland beach you’ve ever seen, but it’ll do the trick! Pair it with one of the cottages, and you’ve got yourself a dreamy weekend getaway.  

The Beach You Should Visit Instead

Just 60 miles east of Kentucky Lake, Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers yet another beach alternative in Kentucky. The 863-acre park earned its name from the pennyroyal, a small plant that’s native to the area. This park is perfect for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy a nature-driven getaway, and you’ll find plenty of cottages and campsites should you wish to extend your stay. 

As Pennyrile Lake is the main attraction of the park, you can bet the beach at Pennyrile State Park is a favorite spot for locals. There are plenty of aquatic adventures to be had, though, and exploring the lake via canoe, kayak, pedal boat, or stand-up paddleboard is a fantastic way to enjoy the park. Motorboats are not allowed on the lake, and visitors can rent a vessel from the park.

What To Expect When You Visit Pennyrile Forest State Park

I’m not someone who can lie on a beach for several hours; I need to move around. If I'm on the coast, then a long beach walk will suffice, but you won't have that option on this particular beach in Kentucky. There are several hiking trails within the park that are perfect for beach breaks. Most of the trails are under two miles, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule. For the ultimate adventure, check out the 13.5-mile Pennyrile Nature Trail that leads you through the forest, past some unique rock outcroppings, and to incredibly scenic overlooks.

Tips for Visiting This Hidden Gem

Any beach in Kentucky is bound to have its peak times that draw large crowds. Holidays and weekends are the most popular times to visit the beach at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, so try to plan a visit during the weekday. Bringing your own tent and chairs is also a good idea, as that summer sun can really do a number on you. The good news is that the nearby treeline can provide some shaded relief, and there are a few picnic tables in that area, too.

Learn more on the Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park website. If you prefer to slink off into the forests and find a secret swimming spot, check out some of our favorite swimming holes in Kentucky.