7 Next-Level Resort Getaways You Can Only Experience At Kentucky State Parks
By Sarah McCosham|Published April 25, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Did you know that Kentucky is home to more state park resorts than any other state in the country? It’s true! Kentucky has 45 state parks, and 17 of those are designated “resorts.” And these aren’t those run-of-the-mill resorts you’ll find in other states; these Kentucky resorts boast beautiful lodges outfitted with features like cozy wood beams, working stone fireplaces, and picture windows, for the ultimate hygee experience. The best part? These amazing accommodations are all quite affordable, too, so you can enjoy a luxurious resort getaway any time of the year in our beautiful Kentucky State Parks. Here are some of our favorites:
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, 7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, USA
The most famous of all Kentucky State Parks, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a glorious getaway in the Bluegrass. The historic Dupont Lodge is a Kentucky icon, and it's an extra charming resort to visit during the height of fall foliage.
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Carter Caves State Resort Park
Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
A perennial Bluegrass favorite, Carter Caves State Resort Park really does have it all. From amazing outdoor recreation -- including its eponymous caves -- to scenic trails and incredible camping, Carter Caves is a total Kentucky State Park treasure. Our advice? Skip the "roughing it" and make Lewis Caveland Lodge your "home base" for your Carter Caves exploits!
Lake Cumberland State Resort Park
Lake Cumberland State Resort Park Road, Lake Cumberland State Resort Pk Rd, Kentucky 42629, USA
If it's a lakeside retreat you're seeking, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park is a perennial favorite. The Houseboat Capital of the World makes for an amazing vacation destination; the park's cottages and lodge all well-appointed with wonderful amenities... and a front-row seat to the area's unrivaled natural splendor!
General Butler State Resort Park
General Butler State Resort Park, 1608 KY-227, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA
An oft-overlooked Kentucky State Park, General Butler State Resort Park might just be the state's most glorious hidden gem. In addition to jaw-dropping vistas and scenery (visible from the resort's amazing Great Room!), the rooms at this resort are as lux as what you'd expect from a boutique hotel. If you're looking for an extraordinary getaway in Kentucky, this is it.
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Pine Mountain State Resort Park
Pine Mountain State Resort Park, 1050 State Park Rd, Pineville, KY 40977, USA
There's no question that Pine Mountain State Resort Park is beautiful, and its lodge is most certainly befitting of this picturesque park. Established in 1924, Pine Mountain is Kentucky's first state park, and its lodge feels both historic and special, with its rooms offering million-dollar views of this most treasured place.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park, 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
In resplendent Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Resort Park is home to some of the state's most iconic rock formations and features. You'll experience the Gorge like never before at Hemlock Lodge, a place that offers unrivaled views and a cozy, downright luxurious experience. After a day spent exploring this wondrous place, a night of rest and relaxation is the perfect way to savor the splendor that is Natural Bridge State Resort Park.
Lake Barkley State Resort Park
Lake Barkley State Resort Park, 3500 State Park Rd, Cadiz, KY 42211, USA
For the ultimate waterfront staycation in the Bluegrass, look no further than Lake Barkley. This park is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the state's very best water recreation, from swimming on the beach to jet skiing and boating on the eponymous lake. However, with each room at this resort boasting spectacular waterfront vistas, we wouldn't blame you if you opted to stay in and enjoy the views... feet up and drink in hand!
Have you stayed at any of our lovely Kentucky State Parks resorts before? If so, we’d love to hear about your favorite places!
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