Very rarely do we feel compelled to promote a product or service - for free - just because we like it. So we were surprised when we came across The Complete Guide to Kentucky State Parks a couple weeks ago, thanks to a press release from the state parks system.
The 288-page book is filled with 117 full-color photographs and detailed stories about each state park (along with a few other attractions like the Falls of the Ohio) in Kentucky. If you love this state like we do? You’re going to want this in your personal library ASAP. It’s the perfect guide for those who want to experience everything the Commonwealth has to offer: natural beauty, historic buildings, record-breaking monuments and everything in between. It’s the perfect guide for those of you who love vacationing in your own backyard. Especially in light of our current economic situation/the price of petroleum.
We received our copy over the weekend and read it cover to cover. And it’s definitely going to be well-used by our crew.
Let me just say that author Susan Reigler and photographer Pam Spalding have outdone themselves in promoting and detailing the treasure that is our state park system. They spent over a year visiting and researching the parks and have put this treasure trove together in the form of a book. There’s a section on each of the system’s parks broken up by region with special events details, lodging information, info about camping, trails, golf courses, historic sites and more. And Reigler gives her familiar suggestions on interesting places to explore near each park and provides maps and charts listing notable details.
But enough rambling. We like the book so much that we want to give it away to readers. So we asked The University Press of Kentucky if they were game for a give-away and we immediately received five copies to pass on to you.
The contest starts now: Leave a comment on this post (use your real email address on the comment form so we may contact the winners) telling us which state park is your favorite and why and you’ll be entered to win. We’ll randomly draw five winners this Friday afternoon, June 19th. So let’s get to commenting!
The Guide retails for $24.95 and will sell for $19.24 (marking the park system’s 85th anniversary and representing the year the system began) at state park gift shops. If you’re no where near a park, you can click here to order a copy online (even at Amazon)– that is, if you’re not lucky enough to be one of our five winners.
Major kudos and thank-yous go out to The University Press of Kentucky for such generosity. Please give them your business if you’ve got the means. We all need to do a better job of supporting our home-grown authors and publishers.
We love Kentucky and are super-excited to give back. Check back over the next few weeks for other book give-aways that are sure to please.
131 responses so far ↓
1 Bridgett // Jun 16, 2009 at 9:50 am
Rough River Dam has always been my personal favorite state park. I have such fond memories of visiting every summer with my family when I was a child. Good times!
2 John // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:14 am
I’ve never been to a Kentucky state park. :-( Big Bone Lick definitely has the best name, though!
3 Kenny // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:17 am
I pretty much grew up hiking the trails up to Natural Bridge State Park. Lots of memories and fantastic views. Glad to see the book so wonderfully done.
4 Michael // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:20 am
Grew up clogging on Hoedown Island at Natural Bridge State Park. Do they still do that? Richard Jett was the “caller” back in the 1970’s.
5 Mike // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:23 am
I’ve got to tip my hat to Cumberland Falls. It’s so gorgeous, so peaceful, and so very cheap. With plenty of accommodations nearby if you don’t feel like camping, it’s a terrific two- or even one-day trip for Louisvillians looking to find some natural eye-candy and some peace and quiet.
6 Ed Marksberry // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:25 am
I have many favorites but will rank Natural Bridge State Park first, for its beautiful vistas and proximity to Red River Gorge. Cumberland Falls is another family favorite ( I still would love to see the Moonbow). John James Audubon is a must visit for those appreciate the art of nature and the significance of namesake of the park. I hear that Buckhorn is a wonderful park and hope to visit it someday.
7 G // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:26 am
Lake Barkley…awesome!
8 Mike C // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:29 am
Haven’t been in Kentucky long so have only visited the Falls of the Ohio. Would love to use the book as a guide to explore some of the others. I’ve heard Red River Gorge is amazing.
9 Kelley // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:41 am
Natural Bridge is my sentimental favorite because that’s where we spent our honeymoon. We’d planned to camp at Red River Gorge, but a hail storm drove us to the lodge at Natural Bridge, with some awesome hiking the next day.
10 jake // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:42 am
Kelley - That sounds suspiciously like the story of how Nick & Nina Clooney spent their honeymoon…
11 Harry // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:47 am
With one kid attending Murray State, we’ve grown fond of Land Between the Lakes and Kenlake which is just minutes from the University.
12 steve // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:50 am
My favorite park is probably Carter Caves. They have a great campsite, tons of trails and good fishing. Probably the best part is exploring the small caves on our own (not real caving, just wandering through the “easy caves”) as well as taking the guided tour of the larger ones. They have a miniature golf course which was a fun way to break up an afternoon. I haven’t been there in a couple years, but it’s a great place.
13 Mike Karman // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:54 am
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park: Great hiking, scenic cabins, and the falls!
14 RICHB // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:59 am
Barren River Lake hands down. I’ve been going there for over 30yrs. Grandparents would take me every weekend. Fishing, swimming ,and cooking out. They did have a little lake place by Walnut Creek Marina but with economy we had to sell the place. But still have my memories and hoping to
make some more.
15 Chris // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:12 am
Land Between the Lakes (LBL), a boater’s paradise for the region. Also, includes hiking trails and nice campsites. A must visit for any true Kentuckian!
16 Marko // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:24 am
Jenny Wiley is a great scenic park with good hiking and camping sites, and fairly isolated away from the huge summer crowds.
17 Patricia // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:27 am
I would say Pine Mountain State Park because it’s the one I visited most growing up, but after visiting Natural Bridge last summer I must say the views there can’t be beat.
18 Larry West // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:28 am
Some of the Pepsi 12-pack cans have a coupon for buy-one-night-at-a-state-park-lodge-get-one-free, with the free night usable only on Sunday through Thursday, with some blackout periods.
We just used our coupon this past week at Blue Licks Battlefield State Park, which was a Revolutionary War Battlefield fought after the treaty was signed at Yorktown, in which Daniel Boone fought and his son killed.
The lodge is small (32 rooms) and the restaurant was pretty good. The room rate with coupon would be $88 for two nights.
19 RichT // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:35 am
I have always enjoyed Lake Barkley. The combination of the large lake, boating, the land between the lakes area and access to interesting historical sites (e.g., Fort Donelson) makes this park a real winner as far as I am concerned!
20 mark pfeiffer // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:35 am
When our family was young we always took a long weekend at a state park. I have several favorites but Pine Mountain will always have a special place in my heart. We stayed in one of the cabins and I cooked a full breakfast on an open fire. It’s where I first went hiking with my two sons. The nature trails there are fanatastic. It’s also the first place I played golf with my oldest boy on the old nine hole course.
21 Debby // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:35 am
All the state parks are great but I like Natural Bridge State Park the best — it has a rich and fascinating history. If I don’t win a book I am going to buy one.
22 Bill // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:36 am
I love Natural Bridge State Park but can’t beat the convenience of Tom Sawyer right here inside Louisville!
23 Corey // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:36 am
Natural Bridge park is one of my favorites because of the scenic beauty of the area. However, for a quick trip to the lake, I prefer Rough River.
24 AbG // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:42 am
Natural Bridge is my favorite, but Rough River is a good one, too.
25 Amanda // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:48 am
Fort Boonesbourough State Park has been my favorite since I was little girl. I have so many fond memories of camping there in our old Coleman cloth tent (wish my dad still had it). Every morning we would wake up to the sound of cars driving on a gravel road and rush straight out to the playground before breakfast. We’d tour the Fort and spend the day on the beach and at night there were activities such as watching belly dancers! The ice cream at the shop behind the beach was amazing.. still have never tasted a vanilla cone like it. Before I can remember there was a movie being shot at the Fort and my dad loves to tell the story of how my sister was scared of the actors dressed as Indians! This will always be my favorite place to camp. Everyone with small children should visit at least once!
26 Chris B // Jun 16, 2009 at 12:03 pm
Not to sound like a copy cat since everyone else is saying it, but Natural Bridge is my favorite… but the wife and I are going camping at Cumberland Falls this weekend!
27 Steve Wiser // Jun 16, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Having visited most state parks, the one I like best is Cumberland Falls. Beautiful scenery throughout and tremendous hiking trails. I highly recommend it for those not yet been there. You can do it in a day trip from Louisville, I-64 east to I-75 south. About 2 hour drive.
28 Sara // Jun 16, 2009 at 12:22 pm
I love My Old Kentucky Home State Park because I spent lots of time there with my grandparents and have very fond memories! I also love Taylorsville Lake and Rough River! From what I have heard, I really want to visit Natural Bridge, Land Between the Lakes and Red River in the near future! I love our parks!
29 Jim // Jun 16, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I grew up near Cumberland Falls and worked as a bellhop and busboy at duPont Lodge during the summers while attending college. The beauty and majesty of the falls and the surrounding mountains creates a peaceful and relaxing break from the noise and frenzy of urban life. I highly recommend it!
30 Peter // Jun 16, 2009 at 12:39 pm
I believe that the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site is my favorite of the state parks. Although the battle was a key Confederate victory, rebel forces quickly fled the state after the October 1862 battle. While the injured were hauled to Danville for treatment and the Union dead were properly buried, the Confederate dead were buried in a mass grave which is memorialized at the battlefield in a confined stone walled area and a statue to honor the fallen. There is also an extensive trail network and a terrific reenactment. Because the battle was only one day, it is easier to grasp the events that took place when compared to say, Gettysburg (3 days).
31 Dan // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:04 pm
It’s good to see that Pine Mountain has gotten a couple of shout-outs. It’s off the beaten trail but still has some great hiking, and the views and accommodations are terrific. Great part of the state, overall.
32 Mitchell // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Barren River. I grew up spending a lot of weekends at Barren River State Resort Park. I remember sneaking into the lodge swimming pool because I couldn’t swim at the beach because I was afraid a catfish would fin me (I was young). To this day I travel to Barren River State Resort Park to reminesce about the good times I had as a child at Barren River.
33 Louisa // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Cumberland Falls holds many years of memories with the kids learning to water-ski, riding under the falls, feeding the raccoons at DuPont Lodge. My father-in-law had a place at the lake and always said he thought it was prettier than any lake he saw in Switzerland. Driving across Wolf Creek Dam was a great marker - it meant those long winding roads from Louisville were finally about to end.
34 Sirico // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Rough River Dam by far! I spent a few summers at Fentress Lookout as a child with a friend whose parents owned a cabin there. We swam, fished, hiked, and did a lot of mini-bike riding and boating. I also enjoyed eating at the the Lodge as well. Good times!
35 Courtney K. // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:30 pm
I’m not sure if it is a state park but I grew up in Radcliff and used to love spending time in Otter Creek park. I would love to win a copy of this book so that I could explore the rest of the state!
36 Ville Reader // Jun 16, 2009 at 1:57 pm
My kiddos and I love Green River State Park probably the most due to the awesome family fun environment at the camp ground and the putt-putt course on the hill. I am a brochure freak, grabbing any I can find at stops and parks, and my children love looking through them as well, mapping out their next adventure! This book would be a great addition to our “Travel Dreams”!!!!!
37 Anthony J // Jun 16, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Kenlake by far is my favorite. Ive been to several in the area (Kentucky Dam Village, Kenalke, and Lake Barkley) and enjoy them all, but Kenlake seems to be a favorite for me and a lot of my friends at Murray State. Its such a beautiful place to visit in the evening/night. It’s a great place to take a date and watch the sunset together over Kentucky Lake and LBL.
38 Bigskyvideo // Jun 16, 2009 at 2:38 pm
I vote for Natural Bridge. During my entire childhood, we held our annual family reunion there and the memories will last a lifetime!
39 Susan Hall // Jun 16, 2009 at 3:14 pm
We visit E.P. “Tom” Sawyer State Park several times a week to walk the dog, play tennis or swim. It’s great to have such an in-city treasure.
40 Yvonne // Jun 16, 2009 at 3:57 pm
It’s a toss-up between Rough River and Barren River for me. We regularly go to both. However, we have also visited Mammoth Cave, Audubon State Park, General Butler State Park, and many others, and love all of them.
41 Sylar Q. Throckmorton // Jun 16, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Big fan of Greenbo Lake near Greenup. Got to be going there to get there, but great fishing and hiking trails. The Lodge is named for Kentucky author and teacher Jesse Stuart, who did so much to promote literacy in the region. Check out the Buffalo Furnace. The park usually features theatrical productions and music groups. This year they’re doing “The Wiz” and don’t miss the Genuine Junk Band later this summer. Kudos to Reigler and Spalding for putting a book together!
42 Clark // Jun 16, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Cumberland Falls is definitely my favorite. It’s quiet, peaceful, and not too far from me!
43 Walt // Jun 16, 2009 at 5:53 pm
I grew up a few miles from Kenlake, but I have to say Natural Bridge is my favorite.
44 John // Jun 16, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Lake Barkley solidly gets my first place vote for favorite state park. It takes hours to get there, but once you settle in a cabin or one of their recently renovated lodge rooms, you can catch your breath and gear up for any one of a dozen activities from golfing, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking and more.
45 Austin Idol // Jun 16, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Natural Bridge is the obvious choice for scenery, hiking, and ecological importance. But, having said that, I really like Jefferson Davis Monument in Fairview - it’s a really unusual time capsule of what Kentuckians were thinking in the early 20th century.
46 Joel // Jun 16, 2009 at 6:26 pm
I like Pennyrile State Park the best — not because it’s particularly beautiful, but because of the great memories I have of spending quiet, peaceful time with my girlfriend.
47 Tracie // Jun 16, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Personally I have my favorite state parks in Arizona. But since I must pick a KY park I will go with Natural Bridge. Being a person raised in the southwest the bridge reminds me of home. I am including a great link to locate outdoor activities all over KY state Parks. So find a trail and get out and see the beauty of KY! http://www.kentuckytourism.com/outdoors/default.htm
48 Sarah // Jun 16, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Love Sawyer for the dog park and the annual doggie swim weekend! Natural Bridges is breathtakingly gorgeous. These posts are getting me excited about visiting other parks as well!
49 Terry W // Jun 16, 2009 at 7:30 pm
I worked for the State Park Commissioner in the early 80’s. One of my perks as a state employee was to travel to all of the state parks. Fun job! Of all the State Parks Lake Cumberland was my favorite. The long winding road to the park entrance was beautiful and there was abundant deer, fox and racoons. The Wildwood 2 story cabins offered room for at least 6, full kitchen and had a view of the Lake Cumberland. There was a main lodge, guest rooms, historic Pumpkin Lodge, 9 hole golf course, tennis courts, pool/s, camp grounds, horse back riding and more. Sometimes I found it hard to believe I was in Kentucky.
50 Linda // Jun 16, 2009 at 7:53 pm
I vote for Lake Cumberland. My family goes there almost every summer for boating and camping.
51 Jamie // Jun 16, 2009 at 8:44 pm
I will always remember a particular day at my favorite, Natural Bridge State Park. I had just gotten my new, cute red VW and it was her first big trip! It was also a really special time with my new boyfriend–and now we’re celebrating 2 years together! Our love really grew that day as we ate our picnic lunch under the beautiful fall leaves. I love our state parks. Our goal is to visit every one of them! Thank you for giving me a chance to win your book!
52 Todd // Jun 16, 2009 at 8:56 pm
An impossible contest! I started at Natural Bridge and the Gorge back in college 20 years ago, as part of the invading “Ohio Army” that came every summer. Since then, I have had a chance to stay in most of them over the years. On balance, they’re the best in the nation. So, I disqualify myself and vote Otter Creek: take it away from Mayor Jer!!
53 Mary // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:27 pm
I really enjoy staying at the lodges at the State Parks - right now my favorite it Cumberland Falls between the moonbow and relaxing with a book on the patio at the lodge - it’s a wonderful getaway.
54 Kimily // Jun 16, 2009 at 10:47 pm
There is no place more peacefulthan Pine mountainStat Resort Park
55 Kimily // Jun 16, 2009 at 11:06 pm
There is no park more peaceful, blessed, and beautiful than Pine Mountain State Resort Park. Tucked
away in the beautiful mountains of Pineville, the stone lodge and cabins are truly romantic. Along the hiking trails you will find structures built by the CCC that have been perfectly preserved. The trees, mountains, and wildlife are truly breathtaking and it is so quiet, the solitude renews your soul. I have been to every state park in Kentucky, but none compares to Pine Mountain. I have very special memories of my visits that I will never forget. It truly is heaven on earth. (I am sorry I messed up the first posting, this is my first time!) Thank you for your wonderful blog!
56 James R. // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:02 am
Pine Mountain and Jenny Wiley are wonderful. Pine Mt has 3 nice CCC cabins and are my favorites.
57 Chris Ferryman // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:31 am
It’s a tie between General Butler S.P. in Carrollton and KY Dam Village. My parents would always stop at Butler S.P. on our way to visit relatives in Ohio for breakfast/lunch… and we would always have a summer vacation at KY Dam Village.
58 Sam // Jun 17, 2009 at 8:30 am
Rough River is my favorite state park. It is a great place to go and is not that far from Louisville.
59 Steve // Jun 17, 2009 at 8:41 am
Just spent some time at Cumberland Falls this weekend. It was amazing. Always wanted to see the park. Also have enjoyed Pine Mountain and other parks in the state, but my favorites remain Lake Barkley, KenLake and Kentucky Dam Village. LBL can’t be beat for natural beauty.
60 Barbara Carby // Jun 17, 2009 at 8:42 am
Lake Cumberland is the most beautiful lake in the state, although there are many others. I learned to waterski there with my day when I was only about 6…good time - RIP Dad!
61 dmo // Jun 17, 2009 at 8:51 am
My favorite is Rough River. I also have many fond memories from my teenage years. My brother, sister and I thought we were at a “Florida beach” - that was as close to a beach that we experienced and we felt like we were in heaven!
62 Kyle // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:13 am
Lake Cumberland is my favorite because of the moonbow.
63 June // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:24 am
I have been to Blue Licks State Park several times over the years and find it great for my grandchildren, I am grateful for the activities they provide and for the friendly staff who help plan them. The museum is great! Don’t forget to check out the Lodge’s Buffet!
64 Tonya aka Peach // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:25 am
I grew up close to Pine Mountain but my fondest memories or ones I don’t remember. There are pictures of little ittie bitty me standing on the natural bridge. My mom says she cannot believe she was so nieve and stupid after hearing how many people have fallen off the bridge, but somehow I managed to walk across it without doing so.
I’ve also been to Rough River, and it has great cabins and such. I wasn’t impressed with Land Between the Lakes but maybe that is because I’m bias to the lake I grew up on, which is in TN.
Maybe asking for personal stories from the event or experience in the park itself will make the choosing 5 winners thing easier.
Peace and think bare feet!
65 DEBBIE // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:28 am
I LOVE A LOT OF THE KY PARKS. BLUE LICKS IS A GREAT PARK, WE ENJOY THE PEACE AND THEY HAVE A LOT OF ACTIVIES AND THE MUSEUM, GOLF, TRAILS AND THE WONDERFUL RESTURANT ON SITE.
WE ALSO LOVE THE KY HORSE PARK. IT OFFERS A POOL, TENNIS AND HORSE EVENTS. IT TOO IS A RELAXING PARK.
WE ALSO LOVE BOONESBORGH, IT HAS A LOT OF ACTIVIES AND A POOL.
KY HAS A LOT OF GREAT PARKS AND I HOPE TO VISIT THEM ALL.
THE BOOK WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE TO LEARN ABOUT THE PARKS BEFORE WE VISIT THEM. I HOPE WE WIN.
66 Lynn // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:36 am
Can’t say enough about Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park! Where do I start? The lodge, accomodations, gift shop and museum are the best! This is the place to go if you want to learn about Kentucky history, stay in a pleasant room, eat some good food and buy a special gift or two. I recommend all Kentucky State Parks to anyone who will listen, especially Blue Licks Battlefield because it is an easy one-plus hour drive from Lexington. I will be back - and in the meantime I am telling everyone I know about Kentucky State Parks’ ‘best kept secret’ - Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park.
P.S. The staff is friendly and accomodating!
67 Rob Wilson // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:44 am
Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park is by far our favorite. Where else can you find the natural history (buffalo trace), pioneer history (battlefield and museum), some of the best canoe and kayak waters, one of the most underrated birding locations, and the site that saved the Short’s Goldenrod from extinction? Nowhere. Blue Licks has it all, Blue Licks is the best.
68 Breanna // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:49 am
I would have to say Red River Gorge is my favorite Kentucky State Park. It truly has something for everyone. Jagged rock walls to climb, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming and much much more. The hikes are well worth it because the flora and fauna are some of the most beautiful I have ever beheld.
Each clearing off any trail leads to a breath-taking look of the majestic mountains that Kentucky is so well-known for.
When looking out at the mountains, you can truly see for miles.
You squint to see as far as you can, take a deep breath, and breathe in all that Kentucky is: beauty.
69 Anita // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:58 am
I have never been to Natural Bridge, and would love to make it there this summer. But looks like only about a 1 in 12 to 15 chance of winning this travel guide. Keeping my fingers crossed.
70 Alice // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:59 am
My favorite state park is Cumberland Falls. We were lucky enough to get a photo of the moonbow a couple years ago. The park has fantastic hiking trails, beautiful scenery and amazing photo opportunities!
71 carrick // Jun 17, 2009 at 10:09 am
Cumberland Falls! One of only a handful of places in the world to see a moonbow. And then some really nice hiking to boot
72 John Booker // Jun 17, 2009 at 10:48 am
Audubon Park in Henderson has always been a great place to have a gentle hike and admire the bird life etc.
73 Diana // Jun 17, 2009 at 10:52 am
Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park is my personal favorite. I grew up in the 50’s in the park as my dad was superintendent there. The Pioneer Museum is filled with many artifacts as this was the site of the last Revoluntionary War battle in KY. Please visit soon and you will have a wonderful experience.
74 Janell // Jun 17, 2009 at 10:54 am
Just wanted to mention Blue Licks State Park, as being a well known relaxing enjoyable place to visit. Many activities for the guests, and a beautiful location. The Park is also located near some historical sites. Come on out and enjoy the beauty and the fun!
75 Carol M-RCPL // Jun 17, 2009 at 10:57 am
Blue Licks State Park is the best! The park offers so many activities year round and it is so beautiful. The Licking River is so peaceful and the canoe trips are fantastic. If you have never visited Blue Licks State Park - you are really missing out a great adventure. We are so lucky to have the park in our area. The park is so clean and the staff are very friendly and accomodating. You can tell the park director really takes pride in her job - everyone is great!
76 Travis // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:00 am
Blue Licks State Park is pretty cool. It has alot of Historical action that went on there. Has miniature golg, pool, playground, museum, and good food.
77 jake // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:05 am
Folks–
Please only enter the contest once. It’s easy to see who enters multiple times.
Let’s keep things fair.
78 Joanne // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:47 am
We love camping at Blue Lick! Especially participating in the “Campers Yard Sale” held in April & Oct. Open to the public and fun for the entire Family. We also love the great Buffet and the friendliness of all the staff including the Supt. and Ranger. Our next favorite is “Big Bone Lick”- close to home and History of the park. Mammoths, Lewis and Clark and Mary Ingles’ Escape are among some of the well known events that took place there. Too bad Ky has ignored this park for so many years.
79 Gary and Janet // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:49 am
We are regulars at Blue Lick State Resort Park. It’s our get-away. We have been there so many times that we were treated on our 25th Anniversary with flowers from one of the waitresses. We nominated her to recieve a pin for her uniform collar, which she did earn and we were treated to a free dinner from the park director when we were invited to the ceremony to watch her recieve her surprise. Gary had a surprise birthday party there for me once and 30+ people showed up. We have taken several school trips with some home schoolers and had a blast with overnights with them. The housekeeping staff are the best, we’ve made friends with them all. Several times we have stayed in the cottages with our friends. Playing rook until 2 or 3 a.m. was great. The first time we stayed was at the campground. It was very memorable. We are planning a camping trip with our grandsons this summer and guess where we will be going, you got it, Blue Licks. We just LOVE it!!
80 Carol // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:51 am
Blue Licks State Park is great-I live in Carlisle which is a little town and Blue Licks provides a great place to eat, take guests, always have entertainment of some sort going on and has a wonderful campground which is always full. It has really progressed a lot in the past few years.
81 Delvon // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:02 pm
My husband and I always stay at Blue Licks when we go to Kentucky. The staff there are the most wonderful and helpful people we have met. We travel full-time in a motorhome so we really know our parks and the people who manage them. The park has improved so much over the years. It will always remain my favorite state park. By the way, we have traveled and stayed in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
82 jake // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:05 pm
All right, folks - I know there was an email blast from Blue Licks employees - but come on - this isn’t a contest for the most popular state park.
It’s a contest to win a book about the parks.
Just deleted over 20 comments from the same three people.
Let’s keep this fair.
83 Ann Johnson // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Blue Licks is also my favorite park. It is amazing how many & varied events are brought to the park. There is always something going on & you don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy the park. The park is always clean. Sometimes, when I am driving to Lexington, I cut through the park just to enjoy the green space. The food is wonderful. It is also a good place to have meetings. I think the manager & her staff are doing a great job! Come on up or over & see what this part of the state has to offer.
84 Debbie // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:26 pm
My favorite state park is Blue Licks I have been camping there every summer for the past 13 years. I especially like the activities they have avaliable for the children.When my daughter was young she was so excited to go camping and see all the staff that she had made friends with the previous year and to take part in all the activities offered to her wihile camping.
All the staff we have encountered while there are very friendly and helpful in fact one time I was away from the campsight when a storm came and the campground attendent put my awning up so it would not get destroyed during the storm.
85 jake // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Apparently folks can’t read? Just removed another dozen comments.
If this keeps up, we’ll be forced to disqualify anyone mentioning Blue Licks.
This is a contest to win a book. It’s not life or death. It’s not a popularity contest.
Please - let’s play fairly! The University Press of Kentucky went out of its way to provide free copies of the book. Let’s be respectful and thankful.
86 jaded dude // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Not interested in winning, but I just want to give Breaks Interstate Park some love; can’t believe nobody mentioned it!
87 Otto G. Rieck // Jun 17, 2009 at 12:46 pm
I have enjoyed all the state parks I have visited, though my favorite is at Fort Boonesborough. Since you can no longer swim in the Kentucky river it see’s less traffic that it once did, but it has a superb public pool and the overflow tent camping primitive sites are fantastic, large, flat, undertrees and with decent spacing. It’s also less than twenty minutes from home in case I forget the can opener!
88 Debbie // Jun 17, 2009 at 1:32 pm
My sentimental favorite is Cumberland Falls, not only because the falls themselves are beautiful, but because it is about halfway between where my two sets of grandparents lived, so when I was growing up and my family was going from MaMaw’s and PaPaw’s house to Gramma and Grampa’s house, my parents would nearly always time it so we’d arrive at Cumberland Falls about midday. We’d stop there to stretch our legs and have a picnic, or sometimes even to go on a short hike before continuing on our trip. It made the trip seem fun to three little kids instead of long and boring. :-)
89 Christopher W. // Jun 17, 2009 at 3:20 pm
I just moved to E’town last October, so if I win, I’d use the book as a guide. HOWEVER, I remember visiting one park as a kid-there was a car ferry, which was incredibly cool for a 9 year old. Not sure if it was a state or national park, though.
Thank you
90 Ruth // Jun 17, 2009 at 5:12 pm
We camped at Blue Licks last weekend, and had the best time. Three other families camped also. The food at the lodge was excellent as was the muesum. The park is clean and the people are friendly.
91 Paul // Jun 17, 2009 at 5:56 pm
Had a great trip to Pine Mountain 3 years ago. Cabins are great, view from the lodge is beautiful, I’d love to go back in the fall.
92 bestmid // Jun 17, 2009 at 6:49 pm
I still get compliments on my Jenny Wiley State Park Junior Wildlife Ranger badge, circa 1969, featuring a crosseyed cardinal sitting on what appears to be, but surely is not, a poison ivy sprig. I loved that park! I dressed as Mrs. Wiley one Halloween (I am still a nerd) and wrote about her, as she was a very cool pioneer lady.
93 Shelby Countian // Jun 17, 2009 at 7:09 pm
I’ve always wanted to go to the Land between the Lakes but I’ve never really had the opportunity. I know many friends and family that have been there and they say that it’s one of the most beautiful places in our state. I’ve seen a few pictures and they certainly back that up.
94 Michelle // Jun 17, 2009 at 7:41 pm
I’ve been camping at Kentucky State Parks with my family since before I can remember. We’ve camped in other state’s parks, and there’s no comparison–we have the best around!
Because we’ve been camping here for so long, it’s hard to pick a favorite. Some of my best memories, though, are of our big family trips to Lake Cumberland. We used to go every August. there were about 50 or 60 of us that would go and we’d get the big loop towards the back of the campground. The week was full of boating, card-playing, sitting around the campfire, going on bike rides, putt-putting–all kinds of great activities! With everyone’s busy schedules and schools starting earlier and earlier, we don’t get to do this anymore. It was fun while it lasted!
95 Connie Farmer // Jun 17, 2009 at 9:20 pm
I love Natural Bridge. The hiking trails are great, and it is so beautiful.
96 Doug // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:06 pm
Sorry about it Jake: gotta say something about Blue Licks!! :)
I was fortunate enough to work for the Dept of Parks and over a period of several years worked at Pennyrile Forest, Lake Barkley, Greenbo Lake, Barren River, Cumberland Falls and retired after working at Blue Licks for 6 years (spent a little time in Frankfort too). The great thing about our Parks is that each one of them is a special place with a variety of things to do and a hard working staff. But the enthusiastic nature of the staff at Blue Licks makes it my favorite park!
I’m going to buy a book and if I were to win one I’ll give it to the local library!
ps to Jake: this is my first and only comment!!
97 jake // Jun 17, 2009 at 11:13 pm
Doug - my comments were only directed at the three individuals who spammed the site - not anyone leaving a legitimate comment! (the offending comments were removed) I promise. Ha.
Blue Licks is by far one of my most favorite parks, hands down.
Every comment left here on the site has been personally refreshing. They all bring back so many memories from childhood. So many happy times. Especially Fort Boonesborough, Natural Bridge, Carter Caves, a couple others.
There are very few things we can be positive about on the government front these days (well, at least it seems so - and we ARE being overly dramatic with the “very few things” bit, but roll with it) and it just goes to show that sometimes government really can get it right. Government got it right with the creation of our state parks system.
The parks system is a true gem and in many ways it makes this state what it is.
98 Barb // Jun 18, 2009 at 6:49 am
For true Kentucky hospitality and “down home friendly”, I vote for Blue Licks State Park. Blue Licks is full of history and the variety of family activities is outstanding. The employees are very friendly and the gift shop is far the best of any state park. I look forward to the day there may be a recipe book of the good Southern cooking found in the restaurant.
99 Betsy // Jun 18, 2009 at 7:35 am
Blue Licks Battlefield State Park is my favorite Ky park. The beautiful grounds have amazing archeological finds in the museum, the Battlefield re enactment brings families with children from many states each August ( 4000) the campgrounds, cookout shelters, hotel and restaurant are traditional outing sites and stay booked . It has become a home away from home and an educational resource. It is a privilege to be a part of welcoming and getting to know the people who keep coming to visit our area.
100 Phyllis O'Cull // Jun 18, 2009 at 8:37 am
I have had the fortune to visit a lot of our State Parks over the years and I find them all unique in their own way. I believe Kentucky should be proud of their State Park system. I have lived in several other states and none can compare with our Parks. I will have to commend the staff at Blue Licks State Park. My family and I visit there quite often (especially the lodge) for special family occasions. To me it is unbelievable the friendliness and helpful manner that all the staff possess. They go the extra mile of the way to make sure everything is
exceptable to us and they make you feel like you are special and so glad you came. We have camped there as well and the campground is so clean and the atmosphere is so calm and peaceful. I will have to say my vote is Blue Licks State Park.
101 Mike // Jun 18, 2009 at 8:42 am
My favorite is Cumberland Falls. Aside from astounding beauty, it boasts the only moonbow in the Western hemisphere.
102 Carolyn // Jun 18, 2009 at 11:10 am
Blue Licks State Resort Park has grown in the past few years to a great attraction in this area. We are very fortunate to have this great facility. With the museaum, restaurant, campgrounds and swiming pool for all to enjoy.
Would suggest everyone travelling to this part of the Commonwealth.
103 Hester Stewart // Jun 18, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Am so surprised that no one has mentioned Blue Licks State Resort Park in Robertson County. This is my home area so am probably prejudiced. The surrounding area is so beautiful and facilities are the BEST. The Lodge has a wonderful restaurant with great rooms. Many activities are planned by the Park Manager, Stefanie Gaither. for each weekend. Anyone who has not seen the reenactment of the last battle of the Revolutionary War in KY should meke plans to visit the second week in Augustr
104 jake // Jun 18, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Uh, surely you should read before commenting?
COME ON, PEOPLE! Read before commenting.
This is not a ‘Which Park Is More Popular?’ contest.
105 Hester Stewart // Jun 18, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Oops! Just saw the other comments about Blue Licks State Park! GREAT! The Friends of the Park are very active and membership is just $10.00. Come join us!
106 Hester Stewart // Jun 18, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Thanks for the lecture,Jake
107 jake // Jun 18, 2009 at 3:02 pm
If you’ll notice, I’ve had to post several comments throughout the contest about deleting dozens and dozens of comments about Blue Licks that were not legit - three individuals made up over 90 comments re: Blue Licks that I’ve had to remove.
108 Erin // Jun 18, 2009 at 4:59 pm
I absolutely loved Pine Mountain; it was so beautiful there. However, I don’t think I’ve actually been to the state park there. I do enjoy E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park, it is so nice to have that much nature so close in the city. I’ve been taking my dog there since the dog park opened and enjoy exploring new trails and getting lost. I find the Central State Hospital part of the park’s history absolutely fascinating. Finding new secret treasures and spots in the park is a real treat.
109 Ben Harrison // Jun 18, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Gotta say that Blue Licks is my favorite as well. Buffalo Trace Area Development District has their annual meeting there and the food is always great!
110 Janet // Jun 18, 2009 at 5:33 pm
How could you ask me to pick just one! I have so many memories……..after much thought……..I am going to say Cumberland Falls State Park. I am sure many of us have pictures of our parents and grandparents spending time at the park and now we go and make our own memories , often standing in the same spot for our pictures. It is a place where memories are made and shared with generations.
111 Kelly Rockhold // Jun 18, 2009 at 5:35 pm
I like Otter Creek! It’s so pretty in the fall.
112 Teri West // Jun 18, 2009 at 7:05 pm
My favorite state park is Audubon State Park in Henderson. They don’t have a lodge, but they do have cabins right on the lake that are great. The museum they have there is for the birds. :-)
113 Eric Manchester // Jun 18, 2009 at 9:16 pm
We enjoy Green River for camping, fishing and boating. I also liked Pennyrile. We stayed in one of the cabins there.
114 Mike // Jun 18, 2009 at 9:40 pm
My favorite is definitely Fort Boonesborough in Richmond. This is the cradle of civilization of Kentucky. Having grown up nearby, I recall swimming in the Kentucky River and hiking the trails nearby. Afterwards, we’d all go down to Halls on the River for dinner and watch the stars. It was exciting to be in the area that was once the western frontier. I especially love taking children now to witness the renactment and drama portrayed by the actors of the fort. Definitely worth a visit and very accessible!
115 Antonio // Jun 18, 2009 at 11:05 pm
I hate to echo Mike’s comment from directly above, but Fort Boonesborough is absolutely my favorite and most memorable from my life as a Kentuckian.
From grade school field trips to high school family trips to college camping trips, it’s remained a favorite. Part of the beauty is that even as I watch the counties around me change, and develop, even as my once rural home county in NKY becomes more developed with Paneras, Chipotles and the like, at Ft. Boonesborough it’s always just the same as it was when I was five. It’s both the Kentucky I remember and the Kentucky I love.
The book sounds fantastic Jake. Thanks for thinking of your readers with this contest.
116 teresa mcwilliams // Jun 19, 2009 at 12:03 am
my favorite ky park has to be blue licks as a kid we had many a picnic there and played putt-putt golf my family loves this park the museum is the best and we still love going to the hidden waters restaurant we have had many a birthday dinner there my in-laws had their 60th wedding anniversary there. we had my baby brothers retirement party there and we have brought friends from tenn. and friends from england they all talk about what a wonderful place this is i have been to a lot of state parks and i love ky’s parks but i still think you can not beat blue lick’s
117 Mike IV // Jun 19, 2009 at 12:48 am
John James Audubon State Park - the collection of artwork at the museum is fantastic. The collection of Audubon’s artwork is worth millions of dollars and it’s virtually unknown to most Kentuckians.
118 The Rev. // Jun 19, 2009 at 2:31 am
I have not travelled to nearly as many parks as I ought’ve, but I must say Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is the best I’ve seen of them all. The falls themselves are beautiful, with wonderful stone walls in the canyon and the misty underlooks. I love the unique-ish moonbow, too. And all around it is the beauty of Appalachian forest.
Most of all, though, it is my sentiment for home. I live in McCreary County, and I am often cheered by having such beauty in my backyard. I have often quipped that “Eastern Kentucky is the Garden of Eden, and it’s people serpents.”
The wonderful Dupont Lodge overlooking the river atop the kiss-your-own-ass curves gives everyone a great experience. Their gift shop has great hard candy! I have pictures of my whole family for generations at Lover’s Leap and Rebel Rock!
Ok, I’m just getting incoherent now. Nevertheless, Cumberland Falls is a place of transcendent meaning that will never leave this mountain boy’s heart.
119 Larry West // Jun 19, 2009 at 8:24 am
Jake: You can delete this post if you want, but had I known that the folks at Blue Licks would try to stuff the ballot box, I wouldn’t have chosen it. Change my “vote” to Jenny Wiley, as it is underrepresented here, not overrepresented.
Semi-off-topic: Speaking of manipulating elections, I know that many cities are having rallies on Saturday and/or Sunday in support of the Iranian people having the ability to not have their elections corrupted. Do you know if any such rallies will be held in Louisville?
120 jake // Jun 19, 2009 at 8:34 am
Haven’t heard much about a rally in Louisville. But Louisvillians protest if a bear you-know-whats in the woods… so I’ll poke around and see if anything is scheduled.
121 chris // Jun 19, 2009 at 9:13 am
Natural Bridge is my favorite. From the trout fishing to Indian Staircase. I have so many awesome memories…
122 Andrew // Jun 19, 2009 at 9:50 am
Carter Caves is unbelievable. The self guided caves are great and the park is beautiful.
123 susan simpson // Jun 19, 2009 at 11:04 am
I grew up going to Otter Creek for camping and picnics. and I think is was a slap in the face to residents in southwestern Jefferson county that the park was closed. But it is a loss to everyone that has ever visited the park, because it is so beautiful.
124 jake // Jun 19, 2009 at 11:17 am
(Otter Creek isn’t a state park…)
125 Barb // Jun 19, 2009 at 11:36 am
Lake Barkley is a favorite for our family - we’ve been visiting every summer for about 20 years! It’s away from the hustle and bustle, has a great lodge, pool, boat and waverunner rentals, and is close enough to Grand Rivers to enjoy a meal at Patti’s. I feel all the stress of the everyday hustle and bustle melt away as we turn in to the park each summer.
126 Anya // Jun 19, 2009 at 1:11 pm
Our family went to Cumberland Falls State Park for spring break and loved it! We enjoyed the outdoors - the hiking trails and of course the gorgeous falls. But our cottage was cozy, too. We popped corn before the fire and had a great adventure! Thanks!
127 The Tyler // Jun 19, 2009 at 1:22 pm
Since everyone else in the entire world has entered this contest, allow me:
Lake Barkley State Resort Park is my favorite because of the great times my dad and sisters enjoyed there. I especially remember being amazed (at the age of 6) how the water looked brown from above, yellow underneath (from the sunlight) and clear when I held it in my hand.
Good luck to ME!
128 Dana Ross // Jun 19, 2009 at 3:53 pm
#1 John James Audubon . #2 Cumberland Falls. #3 Natural Bridge. #4 Lake Barkley. #5 Pine Mountain. All so beautiful. Hard to narrow down my top five and hated to leave out Gen. Butler. If you can get a cabin on the lake at Audubon, you’re about as close as you can get to heaven on earth. If you enjoy fishing, though, Lake Barkley in April is the place to be.
129 Judy // Jun 20, 2009 at 1:10 pm
We just got into camping a few years back and have visited several KY. campgrounds. I really havn’t found a bad one yet. Blue Lick is near us and we have been there numerous times and it has really come a long way in recent years with new activities and events. I personally enjoyed our visit to Grayson Lake and would recommend it to anyone because it is so beautiful there. All of our parks are GREAT.
130 Rob Wilson // Jun 21, 2009 at 9:40 pm
So Jake, any words on the winners yet?
131 jake // Jun 22, 2009 at 8:06 am
Yup. All but one of the winners have already responded with their mailing address.
Leave a Comment