Kentucky Department of Parks

Explore Trails!

Kentucky State Parks offer over 250 miles of trails suitable for all levels of enjoyment. From the strenuous, 28 mile long Pine Mountain Trail to the 2.5 miles of self-guided interpretive trails at Columbus-Belmont State Park, there is an outdoor experience that will satisfy everyone!

Explore Boating!

You don’t have to own a boat to go boating at a Kentucky State Park. The state parks oversee 15 marinas that offer pontoon and fishing boat rentals. The marinas also provide a variety of services including fuel, fishing licenses, ice and slip rentals. And many parks have canoes and paddle boats as well.

Explore Camping!

It is a great time to visit a Kentucky State Park campground!

More that $2.5 million is being spent this year on improvements at campgrounds, which offer 2,600 improved sites. Reservations are now available for the campgrounds. You can enjoy campground activities such as entertainment, arts and crafts, mini golf, cook outs and nature programs.

Explore Dining!

Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with views of mountains or lakes while savoring entrees such as Kentucky Hot Brown, salmon, striped bass, crab clusters and catfish plus many other wonderful dishes. All 17 resort parks have themed restaurants that serve both regional and specialty dishes. As a strong supporter of KY Proud products, we buy locally grown products when possible.

Explore Fishing!

Kentucky State Parks offer a great variety of species and settings for fishing. Anglers have a choice of largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, trout, bluegill, crappie, catfish and many more kinds of fish at state parks. And for beginners, many parks have fishing equipment to loan to guests.

Explore Golf!

Kentucky is famed for bluegrass, bourbon, beautiful mountains and thoroughbreds. And, spurred by a renewed focus from the State Park system, golf now is becoming a larger part of Kentucky's recreational reputation. With 19 State Park golf courses, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Explore Horse Opportunities

Looking to explore some new surroundings with your favorite equine companion? Visit one of our scenic Kentucky State Parks horse trails and escape for the day. Or, spend the weekend at a “horse campground” for some cowboy time under the stars. Don’t have your own a horse? No problem. You will find several parks are equipped with seasonal riding stables for the whole family to enjoy.

Explore Swimming!

There’s plenty of water to go around for a swim at Kentucky State Parks. The parks operate more than two dozen swimming pools and 11 beaches at lakes. And during the winter, there are indoor pools at Lake Cumberland and Lake Barkley resort parks.