Kentucky State Park events | Genuine Kentucky

Cumberland Falls Storytelling Festival March 11-12, 2016

March 3, 2016 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

Beautiful Cumberland Falls at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park (in January)As usual, Genuine Kentucky slowed down over the winter months. Like most people, winter for our family involves a lot of homemade soup, chili in front of the tv, following college basketball (go Cats!), and enjoying every single minute of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years.

Like the trees that I’m so obsessed with, I tend to “rest” a little in the winter months – but spring is within reach, so (like them) I’m waking up too.

I can’t tell you how excited I am to see all the new “events” and “announcements” coming in the e-mail. It’s like the whole state is waking up after a long winter nap!

I have quite a few Kentucky Events to tell you about, so the press releases will be coming hot and heavy over the next few days. Hopefully you’re as excited to get out and enjoy our beautiful state again as we are.

From the Kentucky State Resort Parks:

Everyone likes to hear a good story.

Make plans to hear some good stories at the Cumberland Falls Storytelling Festival the weekend of March 11-12 at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.

The whole family can kick back and enjoy tales about life in the Appalachian Foothills. Additionally, craft artisans will have traditional handmade items for sale throughout the weekend.

The weekend kicks off Friday evening at 8 p.m. with a ghost walk around the falls area. On Saturday storytellers will take the stage throughout the day.

The Bluegrass band “Colonel Strings” from Whitley County High School will play at 6 p.m. The weekend will come to a close with a Saturday evening concert at 8 p.m. by Tim Lowry. There will also be a liar’s contest open for anyone to enter. This year’s featured tellers are Tim Lowry, Stephen Hollen and Pam Holcomb.
The cost for the entire weekend is $20 per person. Overnight weekend package are available for $129 per person, which includes two nights’ lodging, five meals and admission to the event.

Click here for more information about the festival. For reservations, call 606-528-4121.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park (near Corbin, KY) has a lodge, Riverview Restaurant, cottages, hiking trails, fishing, other recreational activities and a gorgeous view of Cumberland Falls.

Photo Credit: Picture of Tim Lowry is from the Kentucky State Parks.

Kentucky State Parks Offering ‘First Day’ Hikes Jan. 1

December 4, 2015 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

One of the Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park TrailsLooking for an extra cool way to kick off the new year? Head for the great outdoors and enjoy a beautiful Kentucky State Park trail on Jan. 1, 2016.

Several state parks are offering “First Day” hiking opportunities for guests on Jan. 1. State park hiking trails remain open (weather permitting) through the winter season.

First Day Hikes are an initiative of America’s State Parks and the National Association of State Park Directors. More information about these events is available at:
http://www.naspd.org/initiatives-special-programs/first-day-hikes/

Here are the Jan. 1 events at Kentucky State Parks. All times are local:

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet
Father-Son First Day Hike
What better way to start the year off right than with a team effort hike? Join father and son team John and Paul Tierney for a 3.5-mile hike of the Blue Licks Heritage Trail. Combined, the Tierneys have more than 50 years experience working for the Kentucky Department of Parks as park naturalists. John worked at Carter Caves State Resort Park for over 35 years, retiring in 2001, and Paul is currently the park naturalist at Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, having been there for nearly 16 years. Along the Heritage Trail, the Tierneys will share their knowledge of the natural and historical resources that make the Kentucky State Park system one of the nation’s finest. Father-son groups are encouraged,, but all are welcome to participate in this free hike. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Meet at the Pioneer Museum at 1 p.m. For more information, contact paul.tierney@ky.gov or call 859-289-5507.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn
First Day Hike
The park will host a 1.5 mile walk of the gradually sloping interpretative trail Moonshine Holler Trail beginning at 1 p.m. on Jan. 1. Hikers should be prepared to see a beautiful winter wonderland as they might see mammals and birds on the trail, as well as the tracks they leave behind. You may want to bring water bottles, snacks and your camera to take memorable pictures. There is no minimum age for participation, but parents of small children may want to carry them in a carrier. Feel free to enjoy some hot chocolate around the cozy lobby fireplace after the hike. The dining room that day will be open from 11:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call 606-398-7510 or 1-800-325-0058 for more information.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg
First Day Hike and Bike
Start the new year at Jenny Wiley with two trail opportunities! There will be a guided hike starting at 9 a.m. on the Lakeshore Trail and a mountain bike trip starting at 1 p.m. on the same trail. Meet in the front of May Lodge 15 minutes before each hike. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather. Call 606-889-1790.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs
First Day Hike
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park will begin 2016 with a hike on Jan. 1 on the Lake Trail. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is participating in a nationwide event to get people out to enjoy the beauty of America’s State Parks once again. Meet at noon (Central time) at the park lodge lobby. For children 5 and older. Wear appropriate clothing, shoes, snacks and water. Dogs are allowed if on a leash. This hike will cover 3.25 miles. For more information, call 800-325-1711.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville
First Day Hike
Pine Mountain State Resort Park will be offering a guided hike on Clear Creek Hollow Trail. Meet at 10:30 a.m. at the trailhead located near Clear Creek Baptist Bible College. Dress for the weather and bring water, snacks and a camera. This trail follows the route of an abandoned railroad grade and parallels Clear Creek Stream for nearly 2 miles. The trail is a great way to get started on your resolutions and will be a beautiful start to the New Year. Please register in advance, the hike is free. Call 606-337-3066.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

‘Owl Prowl’ Planned for Pine Mountain State Resort Park Nov. 28

November 3, 2015 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

View from Pine Mountain State Resort Park

I know I’ve told you probably 3, 544. 633 times how beautiful Pine Mountain State Resort Park is – but if you’ve seen it for yourself, you know why I’m a broken record. If you haven’t seen the beautiful park set in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, I hope you’ll go soon.

The park is picturesque and downright breathtaking anytime of the year. In fact, if I could be assured of access to gluten free food in the park’s restaurant, I think a weekend at the park’s lodge – looking out at snow-covered mountains would be the experience of a lifetime.

If you’re counting, that makes 3, 544. 634.

If you love owls, the following press release from the Kentucky State Parks is right up your tree.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park Lodge

From the State Parks:

If you’re a night owl, or if you just want to learn more about owls, make plans to visit Pine Mountain State Resort Park for its “Owl Prowl” the evening of Nov. 28.

The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with a program on “Silent Predators of the Night” conducted by Mitch Whitaker of the Letcher County Rehabilitation and Education Center with live owls. Guests who plan to take the hike will gather at 8 p.m. in the upper lobby.

The group will drive to the old campground for the owl prowl led by naturalists from Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and Pine Mountain State Resort Park.

Guests should bring a small flashlight or headlamp (red light preferred), binoculars, and appropriate clothing for the weather. The park’s restaurant and lodge will be open and a special lodging rate for owl prowl guests is available. The event is free.

For more information, call 606-337-3066.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park has a 30-room lodge, cottages and a full-service restaurant. It also has a golf course and other recreational opportunities for guests. Pine Mountain State Resort Park is located south of Pineville, on US 25E, 10 miles north of Middlesboro.

Photo Credit: The picture of the beautiful owl is from the Kentucky State Parks.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park Celebrates the Parks’ 90th Anniversary

July 22, 2014 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

Inside the Cozy Pine Mountain State Park Lodge

Although this event has expired, there is always something to see and do in Kentucky. Visit our Kentucky Events page for up to the minute happenings and be sure to check out our Things to Do in Kentucky page.

Beautiful Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Pineville, Kentucky will celebrate the State Parks’ 90th anniversary with a special event Aug. 9. Bring your family and enjoy a dinner (including cake for dessert!), music, and a 20-minute archival film, Civilian Conservation Corps in Pine Mountain State Park (1938), preserved and presented by Appalshop, at the C.V. Whitney Convention Center beginning at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $25 a person. For information and reservations, call Pine Mountain State Resort Park at 800-325-1712.

Pine Mountain has a lodge, cottages and full-service restaurant. The park is located just south of Pineville on U.S. 25 E and 10 miles north of Middlesboro.

Celebrate the Fourth of July at One of the Kentucky State Parks

June 30, 2014 by Joi Sigers Leave a Comment

Bald Eagle Statue at Audubon State Park (Henderson, Ky)

Although these events have expired, there is always something to see and do in Kentucky. Visit our Kentucky Events page for up to the minute happenings and be sure to check out our Things to Do in Kentucky page. Keep an eye on Genuine Kentucky for information on this year’s Fourth of July celebrations at Kentucky State Parks!

What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than by spending time at a Kentucky State Park – especially since it’ll be a 2 for 1 celebration, celebrating our Nation’s birthday AND the 90th anniversary of the Parks.

Events include fireworks displays, picnics, entertainment and a lot more.

Some parks are having weekend events, while others are hosting events earlier in the week. See the list below for event dates and descriptions (All times are local). Kentucky State Parks have lodges, cottages, restaurants, campgrounds, historic sites, marinas, golf courses, hiking trails, fishing and many more recreational activities.

To make lodging or camping reservations or to learn more about Kentucky State Parks and events, be sure to visit www.parks.ky.gov

Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas

Fireworks and More July 2-4

It’s a blast at Barren River Lake State Resort Park’s annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration sponsored by The Friends of Barren River Lake and Park. Enjoy plenty of patriotic, fun crafts and games all weekend. On Wednesday, July 2, the park will offer a guided canoe trip for $25 per person. Call the interpretive staff for details on this trip. On July 4, there will be the annual Float Your Boat contest, tie-dyed T-shirts, and live entertainment at 6 p.m. followed by the fireworks display at dark. There is a fee for the T-shirt event. For more information call 1-800-325-0057.

Blue Licks Battlefield State Park, Mount Olivet

Battlefield Walk July 3, 5

Learn more about the fascinating history of Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park. This one-hour walk is at an easy, leisurely pace and is incredibly informative. The narrator of this tour will share information about the Battle of Blue Licks and the Revolutionary War. The Battlefield Walk begins promptly at 1 p.m. and is free. The walk begins and ends at the Pioneer Museum. There is a nominal fee to tour the museum, which houses Revolutionary War memorabilia as well as fossils, mastodon bones, Native American and pioneer artifacts, and more. Call 859-289-5507.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Fireworks and Music, July 3

Start your holiday weekend with a bang at Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park on Thursday, July 3. Michael Dwayne will play music from the beach area, 5-9 p.m., and the annual fireworks show will begin at dark. A buffet with barbecued ribs, fried catfish, roast beef, salad bar, vegetables, and a dessert bar will be offered July 3 from 5-9 p.m. Adults can eat for $13.99 (plus beverage, tax and gratuity). Children 5 and under eat free. The celebration continues throughout the weekend with games, horseshoes, music and special meals. Most of the activities are free. Call 606-398-7510.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Corbin

Fourth of July Celebration at the Falls, July 4

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park will present games and activities throughout the day, such as a dunking booth, a bouncy castle, carnival-type games as well as a cornhole tournament from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4. Craft vendors will be set up on Friday and Saturday. Call 1-800-325-0063.

Fort Boonesborough State Park, Richmond

Fourth of July Fest, July 2-6

Come celebrate our nation’s birthday with a week of patriotic activities at Fort Boonesborough State Park’s campground. Events include a camper decoration contest, crafts, free tours, hayrides, a parade, and lots more. This event is for registered campers only. For more information, call 859-527-3454.

General Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton

July 4th Celebration, July 4-6

Come celebrate with the city of Carrollton and General Butler State Resort Park, July 4-6. Fireworks will be booming July 4 over the Ohio River at Carrollton’s Point Park. Highlighting this all-day celebration will include scenic views of the Kentucky and Ohio rivers, shopping in downtown Carrollton, along with fun, food, and music. July 5-6, General Butler State Resort Park will host special entertainment, an outdoor movie, and plenty of activities for all to enjoy! Make your reservations and enjoy the park’s partnership with Carrollton. Call 502-732-4384.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

Patriotic Weekend, July 4-6

Join Jenny Wiley State Resort Park for a fun-filled weekend of patriotic programs and events. There will be crafts, Huck Finn Raft Races, Stars & Stripes bicycle parade, an Independence Day In Kentucky living history program and square, folk, and country line dancing. Also, at 2 p.m. July 4, enjoy the annual Boat Parade. Visit the park Fridays After 5 on July 4 for live entertainment and great food. Call 606-889-1790.

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

Weekend Celebration, July 5-6

John James Audubon State Park will celebrate the holiday with several weekend events.

Guests of all ages can make a clay pot with Albert Bauman at 10 a.m. July 5 at the campground shelter. Joey D. and Cheryl will offer a magic show at the campground shelter at 6 p.m. On July 6, there will be a red, white and blue campground parade at 3 p.m. with bicycles, wagons and floats. Call 270-826-4424.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Aurora

Reptile Show, July 3

Scott Shupe will present a free reptile show at Kenlake on Thursday, July 3, at 7 p.m. at the park lodge. Shupe presents his live reptile show at parks and schools across the country. He is a naturalist, photographer and author of two books on reptiles. Call the park at 800-325-0143.

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville

Free Live Band and Fireworks, July 4

The Kentucky Dam Marina will sponsor a fireworks display at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park on July 4. Fireworks begin at dusk and can be viewed at numerous locations around the park. A free concert by the band Classic Wax will play from 7 p.m. until the fireworks begin at the Old Beach. Call 1-800-325-0146 for information.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Cadiz

Fireworks on the Fourth, July 4

Lake Barkley State Resort Park will present a free fireworks show on July 4 at the beach, sponsored by the Friends of Lake Barkley. Donations will be accepted. Vendors will also be selling food at this event. For information, call 270-924-1131.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown

Picnic and Fireworks, July 5

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park will feature magician Dave Cottrell in the campground amphitheater at 8 p.m. with a free show July 5. From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. there will be a cookout ($9.95 a person) on the outdoor patio with hamburgers, hotdogs and bratwurst, baked beans, potato salad, macaroni salad, with cookies and fried apple pie for dessert. Lake Cumberland State Dock is sponsoring a fireworks show at dusk. Call 270-343-3111.

Levi Jackson State Park, London

July Fourth Celebration, July 4-5

This event is the annual July Fourth celebration for campers! Recreation activities and performances are planned, including a campers-only pool party. Camping reservations are recommended (minimum three-night stay). Call 606-330-2130.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown

The Stephen Foster Story and Fireworks, July 4

My Old Kentucky Home State Park will feature games and activities at the amphitheater at 7 p.m., followed by the performance of The Stephen Foster Story at 8 p.m. on July 4. Admission includes cupcakes at intermission and a musical fireworks display following the performance. See www.stephenfoster.com or call 800-626-1563 for more information.

Old Fort Harrod State Park, Harrodsburg

Picnic in the Park, July 4

Visit Old Fort Harrod for its Picnic in the Park on July 4 at noon. There will be entertainment. The Ragged Edge Community Theater’s production of James Harrod: The Battle for Kentucky, will start at 8:30 p.m. Call (859) 734-3314.

Old Mulkey Meetinghouse State Historic Site, Tompkinsville

Celebration of Quilts and Quilting, July 3-6

The Old Mulkey Meetinghouse will host this colorful event held in honor of Monroe County native Lucille Page. Lucille knew quilts were more than something to provide warmth. They were art, teaching tools and records of family history. Neither the loss of her eyesight nor crippling arthritis could stop this determined woman from creating quilts. View her amazing quilts during this unique exhibit in the Meetinghouse. For additional fun, the park will feature quilt challenges, tacking races, treadle sewing and more! Activities vary daily, July 3-6. This event is being held in conjunction with the Monroe County Tourism Commission’s Drive-by Quilt Hanging. Visit the park website at www.parks.ky.gov for a complete schedule of activities. Contact Sheila Rush at 270-487-8481 for more information.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Beach Party, July 4

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park will host a family beach party starting at 10 a.m. July 4 with a sidewalk chalk art contest, music, tie-dyed T-shirts, sand sculpture and beach volleyball. Hot dogs, popcorn, and snow cones will be available for purchase. The program is co-sponsored by the Friends of Pennyrile. Call 800-325-1711.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

Stars, Stripes, Stories and Snakes on July 5

Scott Shupe will present a reptile show at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 5, at the Laurel Cove Amphitheater. John Tierney will present campfire songs and stories at 5 p.m. Face painting, hot dogs and marshmallows will be featured at 6 p.m. Admission is $6 a person; children 3 and under are free. Call 606-337-3066.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough

Rumble on the Rough, July 4-5

Join Rough River Dam State Resort Park for the holiday weekend. Scott Shupe will present a free reptile show July 4 at 2 p.m. A free concert in the park will feature Over the Edge on the patio from 6-9 p.m., also July 4. The park will feature a fireworks display at dusk on July 5. The park, along with the Friends of Rough River, Rough River Business and Tourism and local businesses, will offer events and activities all weekend long to keep the family entertained. Call 270-257-2311.