9 Dog-Friendly Beaches In Kentucky That Are Perfect For Summer Adventures
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Sarah McCosham
Author
The Bluegrass State is a very family-friendly place, and that hospitality extends to our furry family members, too. You can bring your pup along to many of Kentucky’s most beloved attractions, including several superlative state parks and even some of its most swoon-worthy accommodations, for a fun adventure the whole family will enjoy. But when the dog days of summer strike, it’s best to answer with a trip to one of Kentucky’s beautiful beaches. This summer, take your pup to one of these nine dog-friendly beaches in Kentucky — your furry friend will thank you!
Please note: while the beaches and resorts listed below are dog friendly, each has its own rules regarding leashes and specific areas where pets are and are not permitted. As such, please check websites for specific rules before you head out!
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211, USA
If you're looking for "dog-friendly beaches near me," this is a great place to start. One of Kentucky's most dazzling treasures, Land Between the Lakes has approximately 110,000 acres in Kentucky that's a paradise for pups! The area boasts an abundance of beaches, trails, and sandy shoreline sure to keep *all* family members busy. Pets are allowed at Land Between the Lakes, including its trails and campgrounds, provided they are on a leash six feet or shorter, and under physical control at all times — especially when encountering other users on the trails. Read more about their pet policy on Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area's website.
Moors Resort & Marina, 570 Moors Rd, Gilbertsville, KY 42044, USA
Moors Resort & Marina is a hidden gem located on Kentucky Lake. This pup-friendly place not only allows dogs in its cottages, but also out on the lake! Your dog will be living his best life at this beautiful resort.
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Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park Campground, 727 Gilbertsville Hwy, Gilbertsville, KY 42044, USA
Looking for dog-friendly Kentucky State Parks? We've got the perfect place. This beachfront oasis on Kentucky Lake boasts a beautiful dog-friendly campsite just a stone's throw from the shoreline. Bring your pup for a weekend of fun in this Kentucky paradise! Please note: while there are an abundance of trails in this area, pets are not permitted on any park trails that share land with State Nature Preserves. Learn more about Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park on their website.
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Buckhorn Lake, Kentucky, USA
At Buckhorn Lake State Resort, you will find a charming, 36-room lodge overlooking a picturesque lake, as well as private cottages. Dogs can stay with you in both types of accommodations at Buckhorn Lake, and join you on the water for boating and swimming. The resort has a two-dog maximum and firm leash rule in place, and you can learn more on the Buckhorn Lake website.
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Lake Cumberland State Dock, 6365 State Park Rd, Jamestown, KY 42629, USA
Enjoy the beaches, waters, and scenic beauty of Lake Cumberland -- with your pup -- at State Dock Marina. In fact, at State Dock Marina, you can rent a dog-friendly houseboat, for the ultimate day on the water!
The Villas at Marker 48 (formerly America's Paradise Resort), 1024 Paradise Dr, Murray, KY 42071, USA
Located on Snipe Creek right off the main channel of Kentucky Lake, this resort has been a paradise to water lovers and their pets for more than 50 years. This private facility offers something for everyone in the family, including a beautiful swimming beach, volleyball court, horseshoes, swimming pool, children’s playground, and a full-service marina. Visit the Villas at Marker 48 website to learn more.
Laurel River Lake, Kentucky, USA
Laurel River Lake, known for its calm, clear waters, is easily accessible from the campground and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, snorkeling, and swimming. It's also an under-the-radar Kentucky beach where you can bring Fido.
Jamestown Resort & Marina, 3677 S, KY-92, Jamestown, KY 42629, USA
Enjoy the lovely little beaches of Lake Cumberland from aboard your very own, pet-friendly houseboat! Jamestown Resort & Marina offers houseboat rentals fit for an entire family -- human and canine! Learn more about Jamestown Resort and Marina on their website.
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Kentucky Lakes / Prizer Point KOA, 1777 Prizer Point Rd Mile Marker 55 on Lake Barkley, Cadiz, KY 42211, USA
This Kentucky Lake Resort boasts beautiful beaches and shoreline, and lots of amenities for pets! In addition to its accommodations being dog friendly, Kentucky Lakes KOA and Prizer Point Marina & Resort has an entire playground just for dogs! The Kamp K-9 pet play area lets pups go off-leash and play with their owners. Learn more about this dog-friendly beach in Kentucky on their website.
Have you visited any of these dog-friendly beaches in Kentucky before? Did any of your favorite Fido-friendly beaches make the list? Share your experiences — and pup pics! — in the comments below.
For more summertime fun, check out these exciting destinations in Kentucky.
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More to Explore
Summer in Kentucky
What are the best swimming holes in Kentucky?
The best swimming holes in Kentucky are:
- Blue Heron, Daniel Boone National Forest
- Clifty Creek, Lake Cumberland State Park
- Grassy Creek, Breaks Interstate Park
- The Quarry by Pisgah Pike
- Dog Slaughter Falls
- Louisville Quarry
- The Parklands at Floyds Fork
What are the best ice cream shops in Kentucky?
The best ice cream shops in Kentucky are:
- The Comfy Cow, 2221 Frankfort Ave, Louisville
- Homemade Ice Cream And Pie Kitchen, 5606 Bardstown Rd, Louisville
- Chaney's Dairy Barn, 9191 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green
- Dairy Kastle, 75 Eastern Pkwy, Louisville
- Sweet Tooth Candies, 125 W 11th St, Newport
- Lic's Deli And Ice Cream, 2120 W Parrish Ave, Owensboro
- SuperHero Creamery, 500 Winchester Ave STE 406A, Ashland
- Dorsie's Dairy Bar, 667 S Bypass Rd, Pikeville
What are the best hiking trails in Kentucky?
The best hiking trails in Kentucky are:
- Cumberland Falls via Eagle Falls Trail, 1.8-mile loop that leads to two gorgeous waterfalls. This moderately difficult hike may make you sweat, but it's worth the effort.
- Honker Lake Trail, a five-mile loop trail in Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky. It's gorgeous year-round, but we particularly love hiking it during summer, when the trees are green and vibrant.
- Three Bridges Trail. This hike spans 33 miles, but you don't have to embark on the whole trek in order to enjoy its beauty. During the summer, the area is full of beautiful insects and wildlife.
- Pinnacles Trail, a 6.6-mile hike that weaves up a steep mountain. This trail may not be for everyone, but if you're looking for a challenge, it's a great option. The end views will take your breath away.