5 Pristine Beaches Throughout Kentucky You've Got To Visit This Summer
Andrea Limke
Author
Summertime in Kentucky means the temperatures and humidity can soar, which means you need to have a place to cool off when you still want to be outside. Even though Kentucky is landlocked, we still have many bodies of water that offer sandy beaches and swimmable areas. Some Kentucky State Parks, in particular, offer these relaxing destinations and a few of them are now open. Plan a visit to one of these five pristine beaches in Kentucky for a beautiful and memorable summer outing.
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Summer in the Bluegrass brings the heat, so thankfully we can retreat to a few pristine beaches in Kentucky that offer sand and a relaxing place to cool off. Have you been to any beaches in Kentucky? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
For more information on all of the Kentucky State Parks and what is currently open, visit the Parks website.
And for another swimming spot in Kentucky, check out this adults-only quarry that is as relaxing as it gets.
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pristine beaches in Kentucky
What are the best beaches in Kentucky?
The best beaches in Kentucky include:
- Rough River DamState Resort Park
- Nolin Lake State Park
Just because Kentucky is a landlocked state doesn’t mean it’s lacking in beautiful beaches. On the contrary, our gorgeous lakes and rivers offer a range of options for beach-lovers seeking a day in the sun. Outside of Louisville, the Rough River Dam State Resort Park has been a beloved destination for tourists and locals since 1962. There is plenty of outdoor fun to be had here, from exciting fishing adventures to birdwatching or just soaking up some rays relaxing on the lakeshore. In Mammoth Cave, the sandy beach of Nolin Lake State Park is a great home base for exploring the area's many recreational activities. Venture out to spot waterfalls on the Briar Creek Trail, get your adrenaline pumping on the mountain biking paths, or explore the wildlife displays at the site’s nature center.
Are there any good swimming holes in Kentucky?
Good swimming holes in Kentucky include:
- Ratliff Hole
- Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
Finding a great swimming hole is like discovering a secret treasure and the Bluegrass State is rich in these refreshing hidden gems. Along the Russell Fork River, Ratliff Hole is the perfect spot to spend a warm summer day. To find it, just follow the path from the sandy beach and head downstream to Pool Point. In western Kentucky, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a remote area to relax on the beach and take a dip in one of the many tree-shaded swimming holes across the park. For thrill-seekers, Clifty Creek has a reputation for being a popular site for some heart-racing cliff jumping. If you prefer your outing to be a little less extreme, this idyllic creek is a great destination to swim and take in the lush natural scenery.
Where can I find the bluest water in Kentucky?
The bluest water in Kentucky is at:
- Laurel River Lake
When thinking of outdoor adventures in Kentucky, you may not expect to discover a natural scuba diving destination. However, Laurel River Lake boasts the clearest waters in our state, making it a popular recreation area for scuba enthusiasts to explore the unique underwater rock formations. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest region of London, Kentucky, this lake spans 5,600 acres of rocky coves and forests full of native plants and wildlife. Visitors have an abundance of ways to enjoy the stunning clear waters of Laurel River Lake with refreshing swimming areas, fishing spots on the rugged lakeshore, and canoeing or kayaking adventures.