Surrounded by hills, this retreat is an ideal haven for those seeking an escape. The resort provides lodge rooms, cottages, a restaurant, and hiking trails.
Winter Operations:
- Lodge: Wednesday to Saturday
- Cabins: Open seven days a week
- Restaurant: Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday
Top Five Things to Do:
- Enjoy the serene view of Buckhorn Lake from your balcony or the Lodge overlook.
- Explore the lodge to see handcrafted replicas of the buildings of Bowlingtown that once stood where the lake is now.
- Take a refreshing swim at the sandy beach or in the pool during the summer months.
- Embark on a short hike on our trails to immerse yourself in the beauty of our mountains and abundant wildlife.
- Delight in breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the Bowlingtown Country Kitchen lodge dining room.
Basketball:
A basketball goal is situated on Marina Road. Sporting equipment is available for checkout at the front desk.
Birding:
Witness eagles nesting in the winter months from the Lodge lobby or dining room. The Leatherwood and Moonshine Hollow Trails offer opportunities to hear and see various woodland species. As spring arrives, so does the Warbler migration. Waterfowl like the Belted Kingfisher, Red-Winged Blackbird, and the Great Blue Heron can also be spotted.
Boating:
Water enthusiasts can find entertainment on Buckhorn Lake. The marina boasts 95 open slips, two launching ramps, rental pontoon boats, and fishing boats. Open May – October, based on water level.
Fishing:
Cast away your cares at Buckhorn Lake! Largemouth and Kentucky bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and muskie call the lake home. A Kentucky Fishing License is required, available online at KY Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Don’t have a fishing pole? The marina offers a fishing loaner program where you can check out FREE equipment. Fishing is only available from May to October.
Gift Shop:
Situated in the lodge lobby with a view of Buckhorn Lake, the gift shop kiosk offers souvenirs and Kentucky crafted items.
Hiking Explore the natural beauty and resources of Buckhorn Lake with a stroll along a 1.5-mile, self-guiding, moderately strenuous walking trail.
Horseshoes:
For those who enjoy friendly competition, horseshoe pits can be found at the playground area and lower shelter. Overnight guests can check out equipment at the front desk.
Miniature Golf:
Challenge your family to an 18-hole miniature golf game. Open from April 1 to October 31, equipment can be checked out at the front desk for a fee.
Picnicking:
Scenic picnic areas are scattered across the park. The covered Upper Shelter offers forest and mountain views, while the Lower Shelter overlooks the lake. Both have picnic tables, grills, and restrooms on Picnic Area Lane. Contact Group Sales for rental information.
Playgrounds:
The playground features a jungle gym, infant and traditional swings, and a slide, all overlooking the lake and close to the beach area.
Swimming:
The lodge swimming pool is exclusively for lodge and cottage guests. The public beach, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, features a bathhouse complex for visitor convenience. Swimming is seasonal, and beach closures may occur due to severe weather conditions. Call the park in advance for updates.
Lodging
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills of eastern Kentucky, along the edge of the Daniel Boone National Forest, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by rolling hills blanketed in trees, the lodge offers stunning views of the picturesque 1,200-acre lake. Room rentals at the lodge are available seven days a week, featuring 36 rooms with full amenities. Additionally, there are two 2-bedroom cottages and three spacious 3-bedroom cottages nearby, all offered at affordable prices. Lodge rooms and cottages can be booked throughout the week, with a two-night minimum stay required for cottages. Cottage check-out is at 10 a.m. local time, and lodge room check-out is at 11 a.m. Wi-Fi is accessible only at the lodge and conference center. Accommodations are pet-friendly, with a two-pet limit per room or cottage.
Winter Operations: Open Wednesday – Saturday until May 4 Cottages available 7 days per week
Dining
Bowlingtown Country Kitchen offers a delightful dining experience amidst breathtaking scenery. Committed to supporting the Kentucky Proud program, we prioritize the use of local meats and produce whenever available.
Restaurant Hours:
- Monday: CLOSED
- Tuesday: CLOSED
- Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 – 7 p.m.
- Thursday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Friday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Meetings
Nestled along the edge of the Daniel Boone National Forest, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park provides a picturesque setting. The park offers five versatile meeting spaces, including a conference center that can be divided into two smaller rooms. Additionally, two sections in the main dining room can be used for meetings. The meeting spaces are capable of accommodating 10-200 people. With 36 lodge rooms, two 2-bedroom cottages, and three 3-bedroom cottages, along with full-service catering for all rentable areas, Buckhorn ensures a comfortable and well-equipped environment for various events. Outdoor shelter options are also available for team-building activities and other memorable occasions.
Trails
Leatherwood Trail
Explore a challenging 0.5-mile looped trail by taking the left-hand fork when two trails converge. Ascend a hill, experience level terrain, and descend another hill, encountering numerous steps along the way. Enjoy an overlook of the lake during this strenuous trail experience.
Autumn Loop Trail
Embark on a strenuous 2-mile looped trail that begins with a steep ascent up a hill. As you progress, the trail levels out, showcasing various rock formations and points of interest. Brace yourself for numerous steps along this challenging trail.
Moonshine Trail
Explore a 1-mile self-guided interpretive trail, starting at the right fork of the two trails and concluding behind the park office. This trail offers an easy difficulty rating, making it accessible for a leisurely and informative stroll.