Summer is here and the sunny weather inspires us to get outside in the fresh air to explore. Kentucky State Parks offer plenty of affordable outdoor getaways including these unique locations below with activities you’ll want to experience for yourself.
Go Cave Exploring
Have you ever wanted see life below the surface? Carter Caves State Park offers a variety of subterranean experiences including the year-round Cascade Cave and X-Cave tours, group cave tours, and seasonal adventures allowing participants to climb and crawl through undeveloped passages. Above ground, the state park offers gem mining, miniature golf, rappelling and rock climbing, tennis, and paddling and fishing Smoky Lake. With so much to do you’ll want to stay a few days at the campground. equestrian, standard electric, and tent sites are available.
Learn About Kentucky History
Go back in time and discover what life was like for Kentucky’s pioneers. Visit Fort Boonesborough State Park to see Kentucky’s second settlement established by Daniel Boone and his men in 1775. Tour the working fort and learn from living historians as they share craft demonstrations on site. Expand your experience by staying at the RV and tent campground (reopens August 1, 2021) and explore the grounds including the nearby river with boat launch.
Students and history buffs will appreciate the Civil War Museum and gift shop at Columbus-Belmont State Park. The Park is on the Civil War Heritage Trail and includes a 2.5-mile self-guided hike along the massive earthen works that formed the Confederate trenches. There are standard electric sites on the river cliff with utility hookups and grills. Restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are also available.
Spend the Day Golfing
There are 13 Kentucky State Parks that offer nationally recognized golf courses across the state. Visit Yatesville Lake State Park Golf Course providing 4-5 set of tees at each hole with scenic views. My Old Kentucky Home State Park Golf Course has been around since 1933 and was rated four stars from Golf Digest magazine as the “Best Places to Play”. Spend the day at Lake Barkley State Park Golf Course with a meandering stream, and challenging 517-yard, par 5 hole. Discover Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park Golf Course surrounded by woods and water at every hole of the front nine making it a unique playing experience.
Make sure to review the state park Golf Packages, book a tee time, and stay at one of the campsites while you enjoy these stunning green backdrops!
Recommended: Top 10 Camping Etiquette Tips
Ride the Equestrian Trails
Kentucky is known for their horses and equestrian activities. Make a plan to escape the city to enjoy a peaceful horseback ride in a beautiful state park setting. Visit Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park to explore the 15-miles of equine trails and rest at one of the 24 equestrian campsites. Ride on the Possum Ridge trail and stay at the equestrian-friendly campgrounds at Taylorsville Lake State Park. Or plan an extended ride on the 40+ miles of horse trails at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park and relax at the horse campground. Whatever park you choose, you’ll be sure to make lasting memories with your four-legged pals.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.