Kenlake State Resort Park
00 review542 Kenlake Road, Hardin, Kentucky, 42048, United States
Kenlake State Resort Park
$50.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Accommodation costs vary widely, with lodge rooms starting around $50 and cabins priced up to $150 per night. Additional fees apply, including a $50 dog fee, transient tax, and federal/state/local taxes.
About this campground
Where crystal waters meet verdant shores, Kenlake State Resort Park beckons adventurers and comfort-seekers alike. This refined wilderness sanctuary blends the tranquility of a lakeside retreat with modern amenities, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring one of America's most treasured outdoor playgrounds. Just minutes from the legendary Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, visitors discover a harmonious balance between polished hospitality and untamed nature along Kentucky Lake's stunning mid-western shoreline.
Kenlake State Resort Park offers a variety of camping options, including improved campsites, cabins, and cottages. Group sites and glamping options are not explicitly detailed.
Historical SignificanceWhile the park's modern amenities take center stage, the surrounding region whispers stories of Kentucky's rich heritage, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors exploring the greater Land Between the Lakes area.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of four distinct seasons at Kenlake, where each brings its own outdoor adventures. Winter's crisp 32°F mornings invite cozy lodge stays and peaceful lake views, while summer transforms the landscape into a water lover's paradise with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 86°F. The warm months bring that signature Southern humidity that makes jumping into Kentucky Lake all the more refreshing. Throughout the year, moderate rainfall keeps the landscape lush and green, with occasional dramatic thunderstorms adding nature's own light show to your camping experience.
ElevationThe park's gentle terrain makes it accessible for visitors of all abilities, with easy walks to spectacular lake views and comfortable exploration throughout the grounds.
Natural Features and SceneryNature reveals itself in spectacular fashion along Kentucky Lake's pristine shores, where morning mists dance across the water and sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. The park's carefully tended botanical gardens offer a curated glimpse of regional flora, while wild spaces teem with native wildlife. Birdwatchers delight in the abundance of species, from majestic geese gliding across the lake to songbirds filling the air with melody. The nearby Land Between the Lakes expands your playground exponentially, offering access to one of the most biodiverse regions in the eastern United States.
Geological RegionNestled along the sculpted shores of Kentucky Lake, Kenlake State Resort Park occupies a prime position in one of America's most remarkable recreational landscapes. This strategic location on the lake's mid-western shore places visitors at the doorstep of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, where ancient forests, wetlands, and waterways create a mosaic of ecosystems. Here, the meeting of land and water has crafted a geological wonderland that supports an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life, making every exploration a journey through nature's living museum.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome accessibility concerns noted in user reviews, including dangerous wet bathroom floors in handicap rooms and a lack of handrails for steep descents.
Sites SizeSites may be too small and 'sloppy,' as described in a user review.
Sites PrivacyCottages are described as serene and private, but general campsite privacy details are not provided.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose cabins for serenity and privacy (Eric Turner). Lakeview cottages highly recommended (Bob Hartman).
Best CampsitesSite 66 praised for great lake view but noted as not level (Bob Hartman).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in opens at 8:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 1:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum reservation window is 12 months in advance. Longer minimum stays required during holiday periods.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Cabins accommodate families
- specific guest limits per site not detailed.
Groups
No specific information provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNo detailed layout provided, but loops share bathhouses at hilltops; porta potties available at loop bases.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with peak season rules in effect during holidays.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via state park platforms or call centers.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not detailed, but there is a 1-night minimum stay during weekdays and 2-night minimum on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled, but specific rules about refunds or deadlines not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Kenlake State Resort Park provides a plethora of activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and attending seasonal festivals. Nearby attractions include the Elk and Bison Range and a planetarium, making it a well-rounded destination.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available, including the Cherokee Trail. One review praised the hiking opportunities, stating, 'We took our dogs hiking off of Cherokee trail by the resort.'Fishing
Fishing is supported with facilities like fish cleaning stations and a marina. User reviews generally do not expand on fishing quality or species.Biking
Bicycle riding and trails are available within the facility. However, details on trail conditions are not provided.Boating
Boating options include paddle boats and motorized boats for rent. The marina offers pontoon rentals, noted by one user as 'large pontoon rentals.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with mentions of fireflies and the sound of woods at night creating a serene environment.Winter Activities
No specific mention of winter activities.Water Sports
Water skiing and jet skiing are listed among the activities, along with rentals for such equipment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires restricted to fire boxes and must be attended at all times.
- Quiet hours begin at 11:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad construction noise may affect campers across the lake. Wildlife dangers include geese feces on trails and forest animals near cottages (Lee Orrison). Campers should exercise caution around rusted equipment noted in some reviews.
Active alertsRoad construction noise reported in the nearby Land Between the Lakes area.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Greater than 10 miles to hospital and emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Kentucky Lake; boat ramp and marina available. Reviews mention serene lakeside views and access.
Common complaintsFacility conditions often criticized as outdated and poorly maintained. "The grounds were bland..." (Craig Gipson); "rooms are beyond outdated" (Jess Lee).
HostCampground hosts available; details not specified.
Campground Map
542 Kenlake Road, Hardin, Kentucky, 42048, United States
Driving directionsKenlake State Resort Park is located at the intersection of US 68 & US 80 in Aurora, KY, forty (40) miles southeast of Paducah, KY. Arriving from the north, take Interstate 24 to the Purchase Parkway (exit 25) south to Draffenville, KY (exit 47). Take US 68 south 17 mi. to Kenlake. From the east, take Interstate 24 west to Cadiz, KY (exit 65). Take US 68/80 west 25 mi. to Kenlake.
Accessible year-round via major highways like US 68 and US 80. Detailed directions provided, including highway exits from Interstate 24. Roads appear to be paved and suitable for regular vehicles.Nearby places
Paducah, KY (40 miles southeast)
Cadiz, KY (25 miles west)
Draffenville, KY (17 miles south).
Nearby supplies
Fuel and grocery stores less than 1 mile away. Various camping supplies like bait and tackle, firewood, and ice available on-site.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Kenlake State Resort Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. The park offers peaceful and serene settings with beautiful lake views, but recurring issues with maintenance, cleanliness, and outdated facilities are frequently mentioned. Staff friendliness and the breakfast options are often praised.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users frequently commend the scenic views of the lake, the friendly and helpful staff, the serene and quiet environment, and the cabins' cleanliness. Breakfast is also a highlight, described as...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include outdated facilities, poor maintenance of amenities like tennis courts and basketball courts, and unclean bathrooms. Some users described the lodge as 'a 1970s retirement...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water hose and heavy-duty extension cord for water and electric hookups, as connections may be several feet away. Avoid the lodge if you prefer modern amenities. Consider staying in...
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Seasonal Insights
During holidays and peak seasons, breakfast options may be limited, and some amenities like evening snacks may not be available. Users also noted road construction noise in nearby areas affecting the...
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Camper Quotes
- 'The view of the lake in the morning is to die for.'
- 'The entire facility was a true disappointment, uninviting, outdated, filthy.'
- 'Beautiful view of the lake from the dining room.'
- 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
One user mentioned they camped on site #66, which had great lake views but required additional electric and water hoses and was not level. Loops share a bathhouse at the top of the hill, and some...
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Accessibility Features
Concerns include dangerous wet floors in handicap rooms, lack of handrails for steep areas, and inaccessible bathrooms.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. One user mentioned a $50 pet fee per night for cabins.
Last updated August 10, 2025