If you’re dreaming of a picturesque landscape where you can go camping, rafting, hiking, and exploring with friends and family, look no further than the state of Kentucky. While most people think of fried chicken or going to the races, Kentucky offers so much more.
Full of state and national parks, there’s never a shortage of things to do. Whether you want to get down and dirty with an authentic camping experience, or want to consider “glamping,” the forests, lakes, and rivers have it covered.
When it’s time to get away for the weekend, you have options:
Mammoth Cave National Park
Known for being the longest cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park is a historical beauty right in the middle of one of the most beautiful parks in the state. Learn something new while taking in the spectacular views and landmarks like Fat Man’s Misery, Frozen Niagara, or the Echo River underground river tour.
Paducah
If you’re considering the northern part of the state, the parks aren’t the only great thing about Kentucky. If you’re into arts and crafts, there’s something for you, too!
Don’t miss the Paducah Wall to Wall project, get some amazing food from the Barbecue on the River festival, or visit the National Quilt Museum while you’re checking out the local craft art studios and boutiques.
Bowling Green
Car lovers unite! Bowling Green is in the southern part of the state but has a little bit of everything to keep you occupied. Home of the National Corvette Museum, you can spend hours looking at cars or in the Kentucky Museum and Library. If you’re headed there in the fall, you shouldn’t miss the apple orchards.
The Lost River Cave, which has the shortest but deepest river in the world, is a good exploration adventure for the family, and rounding out the list between May and September is the Beech Bend Amusement Park.
Kentucky Lakes Campgrounds
Families and adventure-seekers love this place! Close to the Tennessee border, there’s a water park, floating restaurant, and outdoor movie theater. Watersports and equipment are a must, and there’s nothing better than singing around a campfire. There are spaces for RVs and deluxe cabins for lease (which include cable TV).
Bardstown
Rightfully dubbed the Bourbon Capital of the World, this is the place to grab some friends and get away for some great bourbon! The second-oldest city in the state, Bardstown has over 11 distilleries to visit.
Known as the Most Beautiful Small Town in America, you’ll learn a lot in the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey or the Civil War Museum.
Red River Gorge
Let’s face it – there’s nothing more beautiful than nature in all its splendor and the Red River Gorge doesn’t disappoint. Nature lovers have their choice of attractions, including the Sky Bridge, Rock Bridge, and Creation Falls, all spots you don’t want to miss.
There are also waterfalls, rock shelters, hiking trails, and so much more to do. If all else fails, sitting on one of the natural bridges or just taking in the beauty of the surroundings is enough. With campgrounds nearby, it’s a perfect weekend trip.
Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
We’re back at Mammoth Cave, highlighting their Yogi-bear-themed camping park. Voted Campground of the Year in 2019, this is a great family-friendly campground with multiple experiences for everyone. With over 13 unique cabins or RV and tent camping sites, it’s definitely one for the memory books.