Kentucky Events 2016 | Genuine Kentucky

Boone Society to Host America’s Frontier History Expedition

May 11, 2016 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

Inside the Beautiful Lodge at Pine Mountain State Resort ParkBoone Society, Inc. will host America’s Frontier History Expedition May 7 through May 30. The living history event is a 230 mile horseback ride from Sycamore Shoals State Park, located in Elizabethton, Tennessee, to Fort Boonesborough State Park in Kentucky that will provide education about America’s westward expansion.

The route follows the path of historic Boone Trace, where Daniel Boone first led settlers, in 1775, across the Cumberland Gap into the wilderness of Kentucky. There are 14 encampment stops planned for the three week journey. Each stop will have educational presentations for the public including campfire talks, demonstrations of Long rifles and performances of frontier music.

Parades are planned in Barbourville and Berea. Other highlights of the event include speakers Mark Sage, representing the frontiersmen, and Rusty Cottrell as “Shawnee Chief Black Hoof,” representing the Native American culture.

The expedition will make stops at these Kentucky State Parks: May 16-17, Pine Mountain State Resort Park at Pineville; May 20-22, Levi Jackson State Park in London; May 28-29, Fort Boonesborough State Park at Richmond.

In addition to bringing awareness to Boone’s Trace Corridor and the rich story of pioneer settlement in Kentucky, this event will also help support horse therapy for wounded war veterans through programs such as “Horses and Heroes” and Deer Creek Stables in Richmond. Donations of hay, oats, old saddles, blankets and offers of services to the veterans will also be accepted on the expedition.

Boone Society, Inc., a non-profit organization made up of over 300 Boone Family descendants, and whose mission is to preserve the legacy of the Boone Family and America’s frontier History, is sponsoring this event.

For more information and to find locations of presentation stops visit www.boonesocierty.org.

Second Saturday Hikes Start April 9, 2016 at Lake Barkley State Resort Park

April 6, 2016 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

View of Lake Barkley from the Lodge

I’d be hard-pressed to say which Kentucky State Resort Park lodge is my absolute favorite, but I will say this – none are any more spectacular than the one at Lake Barkley. It’s honestly as beautiful as Lake Barkley, itself, and that’s saying something.

Unfortunately, since I had to start eating gluten free (health reasons), I can’t eat at the state resort parks like I used to, but I recall Lake Barkley’s restaurant always being one of the best in the entire park system.

Any reason to visit this state resort park is a great one, so be sure to check out Lake Barkley State Resort Park’s Second Saturday Hikes that begin April 9.

From the Kentucky State Parks:

Spring wildflowers will be the focus of this naturalist-led hike that begins at 10 a.m. from the lobby of the park lodge. The hike is free and reservations are not required. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is strongly suggested.

“The health benefits of hiking are numerous, from reducing the likelihood of heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes to reversing the negative consequences of osteoporosis and arthritis,” said David Kem, the park’s interpreter. “By participating in guided hikes visitors will not only be taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle, but will also be learning about the park’s abundant natural resources.”

Families and individuals can enjoy other entertainment and lodging opportunities at the park. Lake Barkley State Resort Park is the largest state resort park in Kentucky and features a lodge, cottages, the Windows on the Water Restaurant, a seasonal campground, 18-hole golf course, fitness center with indoor pool, marina, fishing, tennis courts, hiking trails, gift shop, and recreational and nature programming. The park is located at 3500 State Park Road in Cadiz. From I-24, take the Highway 68 exit west toward Cadiz.

For more information contact David Kem, david.kem@ky.gov or call the lodge at 1-800-325-1708.

More Lake Barkley on Genuine Kentucky:

Things to Do at Lake Barkley State Resort Park

Lake Barkley State Resort Park Pictures

Owl Weekend at Lake Barkley State Resort Park (April 22-23, 2016)

A Day at Lake Barkley: Golf at Boots Randolph and Dinner at the Lodge

Random Facts About Kentucky State Parks

“Mining Show” at Carter Caves State Resort Park – April 2, 2016

February 19, 2016 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

Carter Caves State Resort Park is absolutely beautiful and if you’ve never been, make this the year you go. Trust me, once you do, you’ll count the days until you can go back. It’s gorgeous and fun for people of all ages.

From the Kentucky State Parks

The Eastern Mining Collectors Association will hold its fifth annual Spring Meet and Show at Carter Caves State Resort Park on April 2. Help celebrate this special event and the rich history of coal mining in Eastern Kentucky!

Vendors from across the country and as far away as Alaska will be at the show to sell, buy and trade mining artifacts used in the mining of coal, gold, silver and copper. The artifacts include lamps, mine signs, photos, posters and other items. They will also be available to give free appraisals of mining-related items that you might have hidden in your attic, basement or barn.

Visitors will have an opportunity to talk about coal mining and understand the work that it takes for a miner now, and years ago, to produce coal used for electricity.

The show is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 2. The show is free. Contact Colin Gatland at cgatland29@gmail.com for more information.

Carter Caves State Resort Park is located at 344 Caveland Drive in Olive Hill. The park has a lodge with a restaurant, cottages and campground. Besides cave tours, activities include hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating and fishing. For more information about the park, call 1-800-325-0059.

Directions: From Interstate 64, Exit 161, take U.S. 60 east. Go approximately two miles and turn left on KY 182 north. The park entrance is three miles from the left turn onto KY 182 north.

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