It’s easy to wrongly assume that people in landlocked states can’t enjoy the same beach fun as those in coastal locations, but many inland areas have their own unique stretches of sand and water to enjoy, and Kentucky is a prime example. There are plenty of unique beach spots to spend a sunny day in the Bluegrass State, and this guide will tell you all about them.
Cherokee State Park
Kentucky Lake is the site of many of Kentucky's best beaches. One of the state's top recreation areas, Kentucky Lake is ideally suited for all kinds of activities, including hiking, cycling, and fishing, and is a wonderful place for people to get away from the cities and feel at one with nature. Cherokee State Park, over in Aurora, is a great place to enjoy the lake. There are various sandy expanses to be found around the park and you can enjoy some gorgeous views of the surrounding scenery here, as well as having more than enough space for picnics and beach games.
Barren River Lake
Kentucky has a lot of large lakes that stand out as some of the state's finest recreational areas, and Barren River Lake is one of the best. Situated in the southern part of Kentucky, this lake provides the perfect conditions for a myriad of fun activities.
On a warm day, the waters here are just right for swimming and splashing around with the kids. Barren River Lake is also a great fishing spot and if you'd like to spend a full weekend or longer here, various camping facilities can be found right nearby, along with private cabins available to rent.
Carr Creek State Park
If you're looking for a good beach in east Kentucky, Carr Creek State Park is the one for you.
Covering several hundred acres of land, this state park is built around a huge lake with several soft sandy areas for people of all ages to enjoy.
Some excellent swimming can be enjoyed at this Kentucky beach, making it a nice spot for families and friends to hang out together, and the lake is home to many different species of prize fish too, so it's a fine spot to do some fishing.
Buckhorn State Park
Also in the eastern side of Kentucky, Buckhorn State Park is another of the state's best beach locations. Buckhorn Lake is a real natural wonder and a must-visit location for any kind of outdoor or nature enthusiast.
The beach here is even equipped with some nice, clean amenities like restrooms and changing rooms.
Buckhorn State Park is one of the best beaches in Kentucky for couples, offering a really romantic atmosphere at any time of day, especially in the evenings when you can sit on the sand and watch the sun go down.
The Moors Resort and Marina
Since Kentucky Lake is the biggest artificial lake in terms of surface area on the eastern side of the Mississippi River, it's no surprise to see it popping up again in our list. The Moors Resort and Marina, over in Gilbertsville, is another excellent Kentucky beach spot from which to admire the beauty of this lake and the surrounding landscapes. Lots of scenic trails can be enjoyed nearby, and the beaches here provide soft sands and lots of sunshine all through the summer, with some good swimming spots too. This is one of the best family-friendly beaches in Kentucky.
Pennyrile State Park
Located near the town of Dawson Springs, Pennyrile State Park is another beautiful beach area in the Bluegrass State. There's a lot of nice scenery here and it's an excellent place for people of all ages to gather together and have fun of all kinds. Whether you're looking to stay active with activities like hiking and swimming or simply enjoy the peace and quiet, Pennyrile State Park is a great Kentucky beach to visit. It's also a nice camping spot and there are several pretty cabins available to rent in the area.
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
A favored resort amongst visitors and locals, the Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park is popular for its ideal location, an abundance of activities, and superb options for accommodations and dining. The resort is nestled within a 170,000-acre peninsula filled with dense forests and surrounded by pristine lake waters. Guests can choose between the lodge, which offers private patios and balconies with every room, private cottages, and over 200 paved campsites equipped with utility hookups. For activities, there’s plenty to do including boating over the 160,000-acre lake, exploring 120 miles of hiking trails, and playing on the 18-hole championship golf course. Lucky visitors may also get the chance to spot American Bald Eagles, which commonly nesting in the area year-round.
113 Administration Drive, Calvert City, Kentucky 42044, Phone: 270-362-4271
Lake Barkley State Resort Park
Situated perfectly along the wooded shoreline of Lake Barkley, guests of the Lake Barkley State Resort Park can enjoy both beachside and forest activities. The park is home to a seasonal public beach offering volleyball, fishing, and boating, along with private indoor and outdoor pools exclusive to resort guests. Aside from water activities, guests can explore inland with miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Bird lovers will especially enjoy the park’s thriving ecosystem filled with over 200 species to be observed. The resort offers a number of accommodations from lakeside rooms and suites in the main lodge, to private cottages and log cabins, to several campgrounds situated throughout the park.
3500 State Park Road, Cadiz, Kentucky 42211, Phone: 270-924-1131
Green River Lake State Park
Green River Lake State Park is a great stop for nature lovers. The park is home to a massive 8,200-acre lake lined with a relaxing sandy beach shore. Visitors have the opportunity to stay at the lakeside campgrounds complete with facilities like a grocery, dump station, bathrooms, and even laundry facilities. There are loads to do out on the lake with boat and water sport rentals available at the marina. The park also has over 1,300 acres of land filled with diverse wildlife and fun activities. Parkgoers can enjoy a game on the 18-hole miniature golf course, hike along the various scenic trails, and even go horseback riding through the forest.
197 Park Office Road, Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718; Phone: 270-465-8255
Nolin Lake State Park
This beautiful state park only opened for public enjoyment in May 2001 and has since become a popular spot for fishers and campers alike. Those looking for some quiet relaxation amongst nature will definitely want to stop for a visit to Nolin Lake State Park. Boaters and licensed fishers can explore the massive 5,795-acre lake filled with prize catch like bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish. Along the shore, a comfortable sandy beach makes a great spot for swimming, sightseeing, and lakeside camping. The 333-acre park offers more than 70 campsites throughout its land area, some equipped with water and electricity hookups. There’s plenty to explore inland including a 9-mile trail where visitors can hike, bike, and observe various wildlife displays.
2998 Brier Creek Road, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky 42259; Phone: 270-286-4240
Rough River Dam State Resort Park
Known for its deep waters, licensed visitors can experience one of Kentucky’s best fishing spots at Rough River Dam. Here, anglers can rent a pontoon and relax on the 5,000-acre lake amongst an abundance of fish. Along the shore, a scenic public beach and volleyball court are also available for those wanting to enjoy the sand and gentle lake waves. Accommodations are plentiful within the park including a 40-room lodge offering private balconies and patios, 17 two-bedroom cottages situated near the lake, and several primitive and electric campsites for every kind of camper. Other activities include miniature golf, basketball, and a beautiful nature trail where hikers can spot various birds including Bald Eagles.
450 Lodge Road, Falls of Rough, Kentucky 40119; Phone: 270-257-2311
