After a day of exploring the area’s caves, treat yourself to the above-ground attractions at Barren River Lake State Resort Park. Unwind by camping under the stars or choose to stay in a cozy lodge room or cottage. Enjoy a round of golf or discover the beauty of the hiking trails. Savor local Kentucky favorites at The Driftwood Restaurant. For restaurant hours, click on the ‘Dining’ tab.
Things to do
Top Five Things to Do
Boat or Fish: Cast your line for catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie on the serene waters of Barren River Lake.
Golf: Tee off at our award-winning 18-hole golf course, renowned for its scenic beauty.
Relax: Unwind on the patio and watch the sun set over the tranquil lake.
Hiking: Discover our nature trails, where wildflowers bloom and wildlife roams.
Walking: Enjoy a refreshing stroll on our paved walking trail.
Basketball
Challenge yourself on the lighted basketball court by the lodge, offering an amazing lake view just beyond the court. During camping season, a half-court is also available in the campground. Overnight guests can check out sports equipment at the lodge’s recreation office.
Biking
The Bike & Hiking Trail is a two-and-a-half-mile paved loop that begins at the golf course entrance near the lodge, with restrooms conveniently located near Highland Field.
Birding
Barren River State Resort Park is a year-round haven for bird enthusiasts. For the latest bird species sightings.
Boating
Enjoy easy access to Barren River Lake with public boat launches available at the campground and a courtesy dock next to the marina. The marina at the state dock offers 100 open slips, 40 covered slips, a launching ramp, and boat rentals.
Fishing
Barren River Lake is a premier destination for fishing. A Kentucky Fishing License is required, and you can purchase one online at the KY Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Don’t have fishing gear? No worries! The park offers a fishing loaner program where you can borrow equipment for free—just ask at the front desk or recreation office.
Gift Shop
Find the perfect memento of your visit at The Barren Collection gift shop, offering a wide selection of local and Kentucky-made crafts and souvenirs for the whole family.
Golf
Our fully equipped pro shop offers riding carts and rental clubs. Golf packages are available for our 18-hole course, which is open year-round, weather permitting.
Hiking
Explore four self-guided trails at the park, including the two-and-a-half-mile paved Bicycle & Hiking Trail.
Orienteering
The park offers two permanent orienteering courses: a beginner’s course covering 1.6 km with 9 checkpoints and an intermediate course covering 3.9 km with 16 checkpoints, both set in wooded areas.
Picnicking
Spend a delightful afternoon outdoors with family and friends at one of our two uncovered picnic areas, or rent one of the seven picnic shelters for a larger gathering. Some shelters provide access to restrooms, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Playgrounds
Let the kids burn off energy at one of our three year-round playgrounds. Two additional playgrounds are available seasonally at the campground and beach.
Shuffleboard
A shuffleboard court is located near the lodge. Overnight guests can check out equipment at the front desk or recreation office.
Lodging & Camping
Enjoy a restful night at the Louie B. Nunn Lodge, which offers stunning views of the 10,000-acre lake. Each lodge room features a lake-facing balcony complete with patio furniture and Wi-Fi access. For more space, consider a two-bedroom, two-bath cabin, or upgrade to a villa with a gas fireplace. Accommodations are available by late afternoon, with lodge room check-out at 11 a.m. and cottage/villa check-out at 10 a.m. local time. You’re welcome to bring up to two pets per room or cottage (for pet policy details, click here). Lodge rooms and cabins are available seven days a week.
The campground offers 101 sites with utility hookups, a dump station, and two central service buildings equipped with showers and restrooms. For more information, campsite photos, and reservations, click here. The campground is open from mid-March through mid-November.
Dining
Driftwood Restaurant
Savor delicious meals while taking in the beautiful lakeside views at Driftwood Restaurant. As a proud participant in the Kentucky Proud program, we prioritize using local meats and produce when available. We also serve Kentucky wine and spirits in the restaurant and Highlands Pub. Please call ahead, as hours may vary due to unforeseen circumstances.
**Restaurant Hours**
– Sunday – Thursday: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
– Friday – Saturday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
– An inclusive breakfast for guests is available daily from 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. through May 24th.
**Pub Hours**
– Sunday – Monday: Closed
– Tuesday – Thursday: 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
– Friday – Saturday: 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Trails
Peter’s Creek Trail
This 1.2-mile loop trail features a soil surface and is rated as easy to moderate. Along the trail, you’ll encounter a 200+ year-old white oak, a variety of wildflowers, Southern ground cedar, and pachysandra. The trail follows Peter’s Creek and offers glimpses of old farm remnants, adding a touch of history to your hike.
Paved Bike & Hike Trail
This 2.5-mile loop trail features an asphalt surface and is rated as easy to moderate, with a few challenging hills. The trail offers beautiful views of the golf course, horses, bridges, and streams, along with a variety of wildflowers and deciduous trees.