Grayson Lake State Park
Grayson Lake State Park is a public state park in Kentucky near Olive Hill in Carter County County. Spanning 1,512 acres and established in 1970, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Kentucky |
| Nearest City | Olive Hill |
| County | Carter County |
| Park Size | 1,512 acres |
| Established | 1970 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (700 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Grayson Lake State Park is located near Olive Hill, Kentucky. The park’s coordinates are 38.2161, -83.0175.
Things to Do
Kentucky state parks are characterized by the state’s extensive waterways, rolling Bluegrass hills, and the rugged Appalachian foothills. They are renowned as “resort parks,” offering excellent amenities alongside outdoor recreation. Activities center heavily around massive recreational lakes perfect for boating, water skiing, and world-class bass fishing. Land activities include hiking forested trails, camping, golfing on championship-level park courses, horseback riding, and exploring massive underground cave networks. The parks also preserve significant Civil War and frontier pioneer history.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal. Spring (April–May) offers blooming dogwoods, excellent fishing, and comfortable hiking weather. Fall (October) brings beautiful foliage to the forested hills and perfect camping temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot and very humid, making it the primary season for lake boating and swimming. Winter is generally quiet, though the Resort Park lodges offer cozy, peaceful off-season getaways with discount rates.
Visitor Tips
Kentucky state parks do not charge a general entrance fee for day use. The system is famous for its 17 “Resort Parks” which feature full-service lodges, restaurants (often serving traditional Kentucky cuisine), and 18-hole golf courses, making them great destinations for those who prefer modern amenities over tent camping. If you plan to camp, book well in advance for summer and fall weekends. Note that some park marinas and pools operate strictly on a Memorial Day to Labor Day schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kentucky state parks charge an entrance fee?
No, Kentucky state parks do not charge a general entrance fee for day use. The parks are free to enter. Camping, lodge rooms, golf, marina use, and special activities have separate fees.
What makes Kentucky state parks unique?
Kentucky is famous for its 17 “Resort Parks” featuring full-service lodges with restaurants, 18-hole golf courses, swimming pools, and conference facilities — more resort-style amenities than most state park systems.
Can I stay at a lodge in a Kentucky state park?
Yes, Kentucky’s resort parks feature full-service lodges with hotel-style rooms, dining rooms serving traditional Kentucky cuisine, and extensive amenities. Popular lodges include Natural Bridge, Cumberland Falls, and Jenny Wiley.
What are the best state parks in Kentucky?
Top parks include Natural Bridge (sandstone arch and Red River Gorge), Cumberland Falls (the “Niagara of the South”), Carter Caves (cave tours), and Breaks Interstate Park (the “Grand Canyon of the South”).
Explore More Kentucky State Parks
Grayson Lake State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Kentucky. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Kentucky guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Grayson Lake SP — 1,512 acres on Grayson Lake (1,500 acres). The park’s lake, cliffs, and mixed hardwood forest support bald eagles, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer. Muskie, largemouth bass, and crappie fill the lake.
Nearby Attractions
Grayson — adjacent. Carter Caves SRP — 15 miles north. Carter County — surrounding.
