10 Best State Parks in Kentucky

With the Appalachians in the east and large lakes throughout the state, Kentucky has no shortage of picturesque sights and parks. Whether you prefer quiet family picnics or rigorous sports, there’s a park that suits everyone’s needs. If you’re ready to buy a new home in Kentucky and explore all the state has to offer, here’s our list of the 10 best state parks in the state.

1. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Google rating: 4.8

Natural Bridge State Resort Park takes the top spot on our list. Covering 2,200 acres, it is named for the sandstone arch that spans 78 feet long and 65 feet high – and yes, you can walk across it! Admire the surrounding forest as you hike through more than 20 miles of trails. Camping is available, and you have your choice of two campgrounds with electric hookups or primitive camping spots; cabins are also available. 

2. Paintsville Lake State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Located in Eastern Kentucky, Paintsville Lake State Park resides along the park’s namesake. Paintsville Lake covers more than 1,100 acres, perfect for boating or fishing. An onsite marina provides different kinds of boat rentals. The surrounding park encompasses 242 acres, and visitors can enjoy going for a walk and picnic. The campgrounds include 32 sites with electrical hookups and 10 primitive sites.

3. Kingdom Come State Park

Google rating: 4.8

Looking for the best view in Kentucky? Welcome to Kingdom Come State Park! Located on Pine Mountain, Kingdom Come State Park resides at an elevation of 2,700 feet. Bring your hiking boots and hit the trails; you have your choice of 14 different trails and eight designated overlooks! You’ll find unique geological formations here, including a natural bridge and a rock that juts almost 300 feet into the air. Fishing and camping are both allowed at the park. 

4. Cumberland Falls State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Cumberland Falls State Park is located along the Cumberland River in southern Kentucky. Plenty of activities await you here! Enjoy a family picnic, swim in the pool, or traverse 17 miles of hiking trails. Guided horseback trail rides will grant you an opportunity to explore the surrounding forest. Fishing in the Cumberland River is allowed with a fishing license. For a unique experience, check out the Cumberland Falls Mining Company, where you and your friends can use a gemstone flume to find real gemstones! 

5. Carter Caves State Resort Park

Google rating: 4.7

If you fancy yourself a spelunker, Carter Caves State Resort Park is for you! The park encompasses multiple caves, four of which are open for public tours. From bats to caves intersecting to form an X, each one has its own distinct features. When you’re done having underground adventures, head back topside to enjoy hiking, fishing, and gem mining. Boat along Smoky Lake, play a round at the 18-hole miniature golf course, or rappel and rock climb!

6. Columbus-Belmont State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Columbus-Belmont State Park is located along the Mississippi River at the Kentucky-Missouri state border. The park once served as a Confederate fortification, and you can see the remnants of the trenches as you hike the 2.5-mile trail. An onsite Civil War Museum used to serve as a hospital during the war. Beyond its historical significance, Columbus-Belmont State Park is a great place to go boating, picnicking, and mini-golfing. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at the onsite snack bar.

7. Yatesville Lake State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Spend warm summer days relaxing at Yatesville Lake State Park. The lake has two boating ramps so you can hit the water and soak up the sun. Go on a hike along one of the trails, including the Yatesville Lake Multi-Use Trail which spans over 20 miles. If you’re a golf fan, you’re in luck. Yatesville Lake State Park not only has an 18-hole golf course, but an onsite pro-shop that has all the equipment you’ll need, as well as food and drink. Likewise, fishers can buy bait and tackle at the onsite store. Whether you’re here just for a day or you decide to camp, you’re bound to have a great time.

8. E.P. ‘Tom’ Sawyer State Park

Google rating: 4.6

E.P. ‘Tom’ Sawyer State Park is an urban park located in the city of Louisville. The park offers a variety of sports to partake in, including badminton, pickleball, and archery. For a unique way to explore the park, take part in an orienteering course where you and your family can learn to navigate with only a map and compass. The BMX track hosts the National BMX Grand Championships and is open to the public if a race isn’t occurring. If you’re looking for less strenuous activities, the park is a great place to enjoy simple pleasures like picnics and leisurely walks.

9. Green River Lake State Park

Google rating: 4.6

Enjoy a day spent along the waters of the Green River Lake. Go for a swim or hop on a boat and make the most of 8,200 acres of beautiful water. 28 miles of trails await you to hike and bike your way across; some trails allow horseback riding, as well. Go fishing, mini-golfing, camping – the sky’s the limit at Green River Lake State Park!

10. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Google rating: 4.6

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is located in southern Kentucky, just north of the Kentucky-Tennessee border. The park has numerous camping options available, ranging from primitive campsites to cabins; for a great view of the lake, stay at the Mary Ray Oaken Lodge, which has 60 guest rooms. Go for a hike and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, boat along the lake waters, or even enjoy a guided tour in Cindy Cave! The state park also offers multi-use trails that can be used for biking and horseback riding.

All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of google reviews.