When you think of the word "resort," you may picture a palm-tree lined, beachfront complex with sparkling pools and fruity drinks. But Kentucky is home to several pretty incredible resort getaways, tucked right into the beautiful mountains, lakes and rolling hills of the Bluegrass State. Many would argue that Kentucky boasts the best collection of park resorts in the country with their beautiful views, attractive accommodations and endless activities. Out of the 49 state parks, 17 are resorts and each one offers unique attractions, activities, lodging and places to explore.
1. Barren River Lake State Resort Park -
1149 State Park Rd.
Lucas, KY 42156
Barren River Lake is the ideal spot for an old-fashioned getaway. Relax in nice accommodations, enjoy delicious food and choose from lounging on the beach, cooling off in the pool, or horseback riding, among many other activities.
2. Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park - 10299 Maysville Rd.
Carlisle, KY 40311
Relax in a bit of history at Blue Licks Battlefield. This out-of-the-way resort is secluded, has a refreshing pool and with its museum and battlefield grounds, plenty of space to discover.
3. Carter Caves State Resort Park - 344 Caveland Dr
Olive Hill, KY 41164
The more than 20 caverns are the obvious feature of Carter Caves resort, but there is so much more. Stay in the lodge or a cottage, take a dip in the pool, or go on an adventure above or below ground.
4. Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park - 4441 Ky Hwy. 1833
Buckhorn, KY 41721
Perched on a bluff, overlooking serene Buckhorn Lake, this resort is picture perfect. Stay in the lodge and enjoy the swimming pool, or head to the beach at the lake. Situated in the Appalachian Mountains, Buckhorn Lake is an unbelievable spot any time of year.
5. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park - 7351 Hwy. 90 Corbin, KY 40701
Cumberland Falls Resort is home to historic Dupont Lodge - one of the most beautiful state park lodges in the entire country. They also have cabins and cottages to make your stay comfortable. With the nearby falls, there are endless trails and landscapes to explore.
6. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park - 5970 State Park Rd. Burkesville, KY 42717
Dale Hollow meets the needs of all vacationers with its breathtaking views, relaxing atmosphere and award-winning golf course. Be sure to get a room with a balcony and a view and just take it all in.
7. General Butler State Resort Park - 1608 US Highway 227
Carrollton, KY 41008
Located between Louisville and Cincinnati, General Butler is a wonderful spot to escape into nature. Nestled on historic land, once experienced by the Butler's, a prominent military family, you can take in the same views they did years and years ago.
8. Greenbo Lake State Resort Park - 965 Lodge Road Greenup, KY 41144
Although the lodge at Greenbo Lake is undergoing renovations due to an electrical fire, the park itself is still open and ready for you to come explore. The lodge will reopen soon (hopefully this spring!) and it will surely continue to be a wonderful place to relax and enjoy scenic Greenbo Lake.
9. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park -
419 Jenny Wiley Dr.
Prestonsburg, KY 41653
Plan a trip to Jenny Wiley and enjoy lovely accommodations at either the lodge or a cozy cottage. Rent a boat from the marina and take a tour of the lake. There are also many hiking trails to experience during your stay.
10. Kenlake State Resort Park - 542 Kenlake Rd
Hardin, KY 42048
Experience some of the most beautiful sunsets in the state at Kenlake resort. Be sure to enjoy the pool with its gorgeous view of Kentucky Lake and check out nearby Land Between the Lakes for even more escape and adventure.
11. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park - 113 Administration Dr.
Gilbertsville, KY 42044
With the largest marina in the park system, Kentucky Dam Village is a water-enthusiast's dream vacation spot! Located on scenic Kentucky Lake, the resort offers nice accommodations, a swimming pool and loads of relaxation and fun.
12. Lake Barkley State Resort Park - 3500 State Park Rd. Cadiz, KY 42211
Enjoy a view of one of Kentucky's largest lakes with a stay at Lake Barkley. They provide poolside entertainment, a welcoming environment and the perfect spot for vacation memories.
13. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park - 5465 State Park Rd. Jamestown, KY 42629
You don't have to go far to experience a wide variety of water sport fun. Lake Cumberland resort is ideal for boating, fishing and swimming and if you visit in cooler temperatures, they have you covered with an indoor pool.
14. Natural Bridge State Resort Park - 2135 Natural Bridge Rd.
Slade, KY 40376
Experience some of the most unique landscape Kentucky has to offer at Natural Bridge resort. Escape into a cottage or a room at the lodge, hike during the day and wind down with dinner at the restaurant.
15. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park - 20781 Pennyrile Lodge Rd.
Dawson Springs, KY 42408
Pennyrile is the Kentucky hideaway you've been looking for. If you're feeling adventurous, explore more than 14,000 acres of wilderness or if you want a lower key stay, just lounge on the beach and take in the scenery.
16. Pine Mountain State Resort Park - 1050 State Park Rd Pineville, KY 40977
If views are what you're looking for in a vacation, head to Pine Mountain. As a part of the Kentucky Ridge State Forest, the surroundings are gorgeous all year long and the resort comes highly rated and frequently recommended!
17. Rough River Dam State Resort Park -
450 Lodge Rd. Falls Of Rough, KY 40119
If a tackle box and pole is your idea of a vacation, then try Rough River Dam. You're sure to have luck out on the water and when you return to your room, you can enjoy the view of the lake below.
Resort life is waiting for you in Kentucky. When you're planning your next getaway, consider one of these 17 unbelievable Kentucky destinations. Have you stayed at any of them? Do you have a favorite? Let us know in the comments! And for more info on all of the Kentucky State Park Resorts, including pricing and reservations, check out their website here and click on the resort!
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