The Kentucky State Park Lodge Where You Can Have A Resort-Level Getaway
By Sarah McCosham|Published September 15, 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.
Kentucky State Parks are the very best state parks — this is an irrefutable fact. Kentucky has 45 state parks, and 17 of those are designated “resorts” — the most of any state in the entire country. 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. Today we’re talking superlatives, and nominating one Kentucky State Park in particular as *the* place for a resort-level getaway in the Bluegrass.
Cumberland, Buckhorn, the titular Kentucky Lake -- there are many, many lakes in Kentucky that offer amazing recreation and resort opportunities...
For the ultimate waterfront getaway in the Bluegrass, look no further than Lake Barkley. This resort 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.
This Kentucky State Park also has riding stables, a trap range, and game room. Fishing is popular at Lake Barkley, as is birding -- the resort is home to some 200 known avian species!
Inside the lodge, you can grab a bite to eat at Windows on the Water Restaurant. It is open to the public (check the website for current hours) and serves up tasty food with incredible lake views. In addition to breakfast and lunch options like omelette and sandwiches, the menu is filled with delicious Kentucky mainstays like hot browns, shrimp and grits, and country ham.
Even better, the restaurant is part of the "Kentucky Proud" initiative, meaning they source much of their fare from local growers and farms!
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In terms of lodging, Lake Barkley Lodge has 120 rooms and four suites, each offering a unique waterfront perspective. The park also has 13 cottages for a more private lodging experience.
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!
When was the last time you enjoyed a getaway at a Kentucky State Park resort? Lake Barkley truly is extraordinary in every way, and the perfect place for some R&R anytime of the year.
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