This Underrated State Park In Kentucky Is Filled With Prehistoric Surprises
By Andrea Limke|Published April 29, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
Hopefully, by now you know how fantastic our state park system is here in Kentucky. We are lucky enough to have one of the best collection of state parks in the country and they each offer different opportunities for adventure and experiencing natural beauty.
We’ve spoken highly of many of the parks, such as the underrated Grayson Lake State Park and Kentucky’s first state park, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, but there’s one often overlooked park that is filled with unique features. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union is worthy of a visit and is filled with prehistoric surprises.
Big Bone Lick State Park is located in Union, Kentucky and has 813 acres of beautiful land to explore.
It's actually home to remains that date back to the Ice Age and the park takes advantage of this unique past. While you'll find typical park attractions like a campsite and hiking trails, there are also numerous unexpected surprises.
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The park was recently able to completely renovate and update their museum and visitors center.
You'll now find exhibits and displays that include Ordovician fossils, Ice Age mammal bones, Native American artifacts, items from the salt making era, and ongoing current research.
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Just outside of the visitor's center is the Discovery Trail.
As you first walk past this ice age-era display, you'll imagine what life was once like for these animals so long ago. This 4.5-mile trail then continues through the park and passes through grasslands, woodlands, a woody savanna, the salt-sulfur springs, and the popular bison viewing area.
The herd of bison that call Big Bone Lick home is one of the most unique features you'll find in any of Kentucky's state parks.
It then opens up to a large, fenced pasture where these amazing animals graze. Though they are out in the field all year long, they are not always close to the fence; however, you may be lucky and get an up-close look at the largest of all North American land mammals and our only living mammalian link to the Ice Age.
Since it is a Kentucky State Park, as well as a historic site, you can expect to find all of the other wonderful park amenities.
The campground features 62 sites, as well as a seasonal pool and mini-golf course.
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The park also has a small lake, perfect for fishing and relaxing. It's a somewhat tough walk up a hill to reach this hidden lake, but it's worth the extra effort.
As you sit on one of the benches that surround the lake, you can imagine what this land was like in prehistoric times. Animals flocked here for the salty water and rocks, and we now visit to learn all about it and experience this fascinating part of Kentucky's history.
If you’re looking for a unique park that offers typical features like camping, but also a one-of-a-kind bison herd and museums, then check out Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. Have you visited this underrated destination in Kentucky? Share your experiences with us in the comments!
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is located at 3380 Beaver Rd., Union, KY 41091. For more information, visit its website here.
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