Kentucky State Parks offers a diversity of outdoor recreation across the state. Check out these six locations that will delight everyone in your family.
John James Audubon State Park
Nature and bird lovers do not want to miss the opportunity to visit this unique state park that honors the late John James Audubon. Explore the surrounding wetlands that inspired him to study various birds and complete his masterwork, “The Birds of America,” and many original artworks. Then visit the world-class museum, nature center and gift shop to be inspired to get outside for a picnic, fish, or relax at the campground to enjoy the sounds of the surrounding wildlife.
Columbus Belmont State Park
This state park has preserved the historic site of the 1861 Battle of Belmont. Today, you can still see the massive chain and anchor used by the South to block passage of Union gunboats and hike the trails running through bluffs and massive earthworks that formed the Confederate trenches. Visit the Civil War Museum that was once used as a Civil War hospital and stop by the snack bar for a soft serve ice cream treat. The well-maintained grounds offer a shaded campground and peaceful picnic spots overlooking the Mississippi River.
Kincaid Lake State Park
If your group enjoys friendly sports competition, then Kincaid Lake has plenty of recreational activities to choose from. Go to the courts to play basketball, tennis, or volleyball. Stay cool swimming, fishing, or rent a kayak or pedalboat and visit the country store and gift shop. Put your skills to the test with miniature golf. Or talk to the staff to help set up cornhole, shuffleboard, bocce ball, badminton, yard bowling, and other activities. There are 159 RV and tent sites to use as your basecamp to share stories over the campfire at the end of the day.
Recommended: Great Kentucky Road Trips with State Park Stops
General Burnside Island State Park
Golf and boating enthusiasts will rejoice when they discover General Burnside Island. The Civil War general, Ambrose Burnside once patrolled the 400-acre island along the Cumberland River looking for Confederate soldiers. Today the island is preserved with an 18-hole regulation golf course with a pro shop and 101-site wooded campground. Visit the nearby marina for all your lake needs including boat rentals and rental slips. Don’t forget your fishing license and gear to try your luck catching crappie and bass.
Lake Cumberland State Resort Park
With more than 60,000 acres of water and 1,225 miles of shoreline, Lake Cumberland is one of the finest fishing and boating areas in the eastern United States. Enjoy the beauty of the forest and scenic lake overlooks on two park hiking trails. Bring your binoculars for birding and look up some geocaching along the way. Pack a lunch for visiting the picnic grounds or reserve a picnic shelter for a larger group. If you prefer not to prepare a meal, then you can order from Rowena Landing Restaurant. The park has a 97-site campground to relax under the stars.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Located in the heart of the Appalachians, this mountain and lake resort is named for a local legendary pioneer woman. The nature center has displays discussing natural, cultural, and historic facts. There are 10 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore, and the area is home to the elk e-introduction program with tours available in winter months. Stay at the campground and discover why locals love this state park.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!