Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park – A Natural Retreat in Appalachian Kentucky

Location

4441 Ky Hwy. 1833, Buckhorn, KY 41721

Top Five Things to Do

1. Stroll along the 1,200‑acre lake from your balcony or the lodge overlook.
2. Explore the on‑site museum, featuring replicas of historic buildings that once stood where the lake now lies.
3. Take a refreshing swim at the sandy beach or in the lodge’s pool during the summer months.
4. Enjoy a short hike on one of the park’s scenic trails, where wildlife and Appalachian scenery abound.
5. Dine at the Bowlingtown Country Kitchen, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner in a welcoming lodge dining room.

Lodging

Nestled in the Appalachian foothills along the edge of Daniel Boone National Forest, the lodge offers 36 rooms and five cottages—two 2‑bedroom and three 3‑bedroom units—at competitive rates. Pet‑friendly accommodations allow up to two pets per room or cottage. Check‑out times are 10 a.m. for cottages and 11 a.m. for lodge rooms. Wi‑Fi is available in the lodge and conference center. Cottage check‑in is available Sunday–Wednesday before 6 p.m.

Dining – Bowlingtown Country Kitchen

• Wednesday: 4 p.m.–8 p.m.
• Thursday–Saturday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (Closed 3–4 p.m.)
• Sunday: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Meetings & Events

The lodge’s expansive veranda and wall‑to‑wall windows bring the outdoors inside. The conference center, an extension of the lodge, offers a large meeting room and a smaller breakout room. For group or wedding inquiries, click here.

Activities

• Basketball: A goal on Marina Road; equipment can be borrowed at the front desk.
• Birding: Spot winter eagles from the lodge lobby, and explore the Leatherwood and Moonshine Hollow trails for a variety of woodland species. Spring brings warbler migration, while waterfowl such as the Belted Kingfisher and Great Blue Heron frequent the lake.
• Boating: The marina offers 95 slips, two launching ramps, pontoon and fishing boat rentals. Operations run May–October, depending on water level.
• Fishing: The lake hosts largemouth and Kentucky bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and muskie. A Kentucky fishing license is required—purchase online at the Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Free loaner equipment is available through the marina. Fishing is open May–October.
• Gift Shop: Located in the lodge lobby, offering souvenirs and locally crafted items.
• Hiking: A self‑guiding, 1.5‑mile trail with moderate difficulty lets you experience the park’s natural beauty.
• Horseshoes: Pits located in the playground area and lower shelter; equipment available at the front desk for guests.
• Miniature Golf: An 18‑hole course open April 1–October 31; equipment can be borrowed at the front desk.
• Picnicking: Covered Upper and Lower Shelters provide tables, grills, and restroom access along Picnic Area Lane. Group rentals are available—contact Group Sales for details.
• Playgrounds: Jungle gym, infant and traditional swings, and a slide overlooking the lake and beach area.
• Swimming: Lodge pool for guest use; public beach with bathhouse complex open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Seasonal closures may occur; call ahead for conditions.