Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
Kentucky’s Resort in the Woods
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park stretches across 500+ acres of hardwood forest in Western Kentucky. Unlike simpler state parks, this resort-style facility offers lodge rooms, cottages, golf, and full dining services alongside traditional camping.
Overnight Options
| Type | Details | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Campground | Utility hookups, dump station, showers | Mar–Nov |
| Equestrian Sites | 8 pull-through with full hookups, hitching posts | Year-round |
| Cottages | Wooded/lake views, some pet-friendly | Year-round |
| Lodge Rooms | Full amenities, restaurant on-site | Year-round |
Check-in: 2 PM (camping). Check-out: 1 PM (camping), 10 AM (cottages/lodge).
Pennyrile Lake
The 55-acre Pennyrile Lake offers fishing, swimming, and boat rentals. An 18-hole golf course winds through the forested hills.
Trails & Horseback Riding
Over 10 miles of trails, including dedicated equestrian paths connecting to the Daniel Boone National Forest trail system.
Can I bring my horse?
Yes! Pennyrile has 8 equestrian campsites with full hookups, hitching posts, and access to miles of riding trails. Sites are open year-round.
Is there a restaurant?
Yes! The lodge features a full-service restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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.
Explore More Kentucky State Parks
Pennyrile Forest State Resort 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.
