Explore Barren River Lake State Resort Park – Kentucky’s Premier 10,000‑Acre Lake Retreat
Discover Barren River Lake State Resort Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of Lucas, Kentucky, Barren River Lake State Resort Park offers a pristine 10,000‑acre man‑made lake, award‑winning amenities, and a wide range of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway, a week‑long family vacation, or a corporate retreat, the park’s blend of natural beauty and modern comforts delivers a memorable experience for every visitor.
Location
1149 State Park Road, Lucas, KY 42156
Just off Highway 31‑E between Nashville and Louisville.
Top Five Things to Do
- Boating and fishing for catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie on Barren River Lake.
- Play the award‑winning 18‑hole golf course.
- Spot Sandhill Cranes and other wildlife from the park’s observation points.
- Warm up by the fireplace at the Highlands Pub and enjoy a local Kentucky Bourbon.
- Stroll the paved 2.5‑mile bike & hiking trail.
Lodging & Camping
The Louie B. Nunn Lodge features 51 lake‑view rooms with balconies, Wi‑Fi, and HD channels. Each room includes a small table and comfortable seating. For a quieter escape, choose from 22 two‑bedroom cabins—each with a full kitchen, dining area, living room, picnic table, and grill. Upgrade to a villa for screened back porch and gas fireplace. Pet‑friendly rooms accept up to two pets with a fee.
The park’s 99‑site campground offers electric hookups, some with sewer, wooden decks, a dump station, central showers, and restrooms. Pets are allowed on a leash. Check‑out: lodge 11 a.m., cabins & villas 10 a.m. All lodging is open year‑round.
Meetings and Events
Host weddings, corporate meetings, or private parties in scenic settings overlooking the lake. Contact the park for venue details.
Dining & Pub Hours
Restaurant (closed Mon‑Wed):
- Thu: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Fri‑Sat: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Sun: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Pub (closed Sun‑Thu):
- Fri‑Sat: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Activities
Basketball
A lighted court near the lodge and a half‑court in the campground. Equipment can be checked out at the recreation office.
Biking & Hiking
2.5‑mile paved loop starts at the golf course entrance. Restrooms are near Highland Field.
Birding
Best fall‑through‑spring for flycatchers, thrushes, and warblers. Bald Eagles appear Oct‑Mar; Sandhill Cranes Nov‑Feb.
Boating
Public boat launches are available in the campground and marina. The marina has 100 open slips, 40 covered slips, a launching ramp, and rentals. Marina website | Phone: 270‑646‑2357.
Fishing
Home to hybrid bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish. A Kentucky Fishing License is required; purchase online. Free loaner equipment is available at the front desk.
Gift Shop
The Barren Collection offers local crafts and Kentucky‑made souvenirs, including Kentucky Proud products. Open daily.
Golf
18‑hole regulation course with pro shop, riding carts, and club rentals. Packages available year‑round. Pro shop: 1‑800‑295‑1876.
Hiking & Orienteering
Four self‑guided trails: Connell Nature Trail, Peters Creek Trail Loop, the paved Bicycle & Hiking Trail, and Campers Cove. Two orienteering courses—beginner (1.6 km, 9 controls) and intermediate (3.9 km, 16 controls).
Picnicking & Playgrounds
Two uncovered picnic areas and seven shelters available for rent. Three year‑round playgrounds and seasonal playgrounds at the campground and beach.
Shuffleboard
Located near the lodge; equipment available at the front desk.
For rates and reservations, call 1‑888‑4KY‑PARK or visit the park’s website.
