Barren River Lake State Resort Park
00 review1149 State Park Rd, Lucas, Kentucky, 42156-9709, United States
Barren River Lake State Resort Park
$25.00 - $100.00 / 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
Golf cart permits are $25 for the week or $100 for the calendar year. Utility hookups available in campsites. The park prohibits firewood from outside Kentucky due to Emerald Ash Borer concerns.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of a sprawling 10,000-acre lake, this 99-site campground offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and natural adventure. Whether you're hooking up your RV at one of the many utility-equipped sites or pitching a tent under the stars, you'll find yourself at the heart of endless outdoor possibilities. Wander through shaded woodland trails, tee off at the nearby golf course, or saddle up for a memorable horseback ride through Kentucky's rolling countryside. Families return year after year to create lasting memories in this outdoor playground where lake activities, forest exploration, and comfortable camping come together seamlessly.
Barren River Lake State Resort Park offers a mix of accommodations, including standard electric campsites, cabins, cottages, and lodge rooms.
Historical SignificanceSince opening its gates in 1965, this campground has served as a gateway to one of America's most remarkable natural wonders. Just a short drive away lies the legendary Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the world's longest known cave system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The campground itself has witnessed over half a century of family traditions, first dates around campfires, and children catching their first fish. Its proximity to historic sites allows visitors to seamlessly blend outdoor recreation with cultural exploration, making it an ideal basecamp for discovering the rich heritage of south-central Kentucky.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant blooms of spring to the golden hues of autumn, each season paints this Kentucky landscape with its own unique charm. Summer transforms the campground into a bustling hub of activity, with warm temperatures from Memorial Day through Labor Day creating ideal conditions for swimming, boating, and evening campfires. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and perfect hiking weather, while fall brings crisp air and spectacular foliage that reflects brilliantly off the lake's surface. Even the quieter shoulder seasons offer their own rewards, with moderate temperatures perfect for those seeking a more peaceful communion with nature.
ElevationPerched among Kentucky's signature rolling hills, the campground offers a gentle, undulating landscape that creates natural privacy between sites and provides countless vantage points for sunset viewing. This classic hill country terrain means you'll find both hilltop sites with sweeping views and sheltered spots nestled in gentle valleys. The varied topography adds character to every trail walk and makes each campsite feel like its own unique destination within the larger campground community.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to morning mist rising from Barren River Lake, its 10,000 acres of pristine water stretching toward tree-covered hills that seem to roll endlessly into the horizon. The campground showcases Kentucky at its scenic best, where dramatic limestone bluffs and weathered cliffs provide a stunning backdrop to your outdoor adventures. Ancient hardwood forests carpet the surrounding hills, their canopy providing welcome shade and home to abundant wildlife. Whether you're watching the sunset paint the lake in shades of gold and crimson or discovering a hidden cove perfect for an afternoon swim, the natural beauty here transforms even the simplest camping trip into an unforgettable escape.
Geological RegionSet in the heart of Barren County, Kentucky, this campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where ancient limestone formations meet modern reservoir engineering. The magnificent 10,000-acre Barren River Lake, created by damming the historic waterway, now fills a valley carved over millennia through the region's distinctive karst topography. This is cave country, where the same geological forces that created the nearby Mammoth Cave system have sculpted a landscape of sinkholes, springs, and underground streams. The tree-covered hills that embrace the campground tell a story written in stone, from the fossil-rich limestone cliffs to the fertile valleys that have supported both prehistoric peoples and modern adventurers seeking connection with this timeless Kentucky landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground allows golf carts with a permit, and disabled guests can use them without requiring a permit if they display a disability tag. Some cabins and lodge rooms are handicap accessible.
Sites SizeStandard and pull-through sites are available, accommodating mid-size travel trailers and RVs up to 87 feet.
Sites PrivacySome reviews indicate that campsites are close together, reducing privacy. One user stated, 'Campsites were really close together for a state park.'
Total Campsites99 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 50 is heavily sloped and not recommended. Sites 1-15 are suitable for RVs. Site 79A was said to be extremely off-level.
Best CampsitesSites 1-15 recommended for RVs and travel trailers according to users.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 5 PM for cabins.
Check-out
Unknown
Stay Limit
- Up to 2 consecutive nights during peak season weekends
- holiday periods may require longer stays.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity per site is 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are built into hillsides, with some being highly sloped.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 15 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made up to 12 months in advance through the call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable, but sites fill quickly during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled as per the park's official cancellation policy, but exact details are 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
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a wealth of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, biking, golf, horseback riding, and swimming. Seasonal events and guided nature programs are also available.
Hiking
The park features four miles of woodland trails for hiking. A user noted a paved 2.5-mile loop as 'great if you have difficulty with rough trails.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in the lake, which is home to largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie. A marina offers rental boats and fishing equipment.Swimming
Swimming options include a pool reserved for lodge and cottage guests and a public beach with a bathhouse, open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day.Biking
A paved biking trail of 2.5 miles is available around the property; users describe it as 'outstanding' and located mostly in wooded areas.Boating
The lake features a marina with over 100 slips, and boats such as pontoons and kayaks are available for rent.Wildlife viewing
The park is surrounded by wooded areas and a lake, offering opportunities for observing various species of birds and other wildlife.Beach activities
The beach features sandy areas and gradual lake entrances, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers guided nature programs and daily summer activities led by a trained recreation director.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not highlighted, as the park operates from March 15 through November 15.Water Sports
Water skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular on the lake, with rentals available at the marina.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must comply with park regulations. Firewood must be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsUneven and sloped campsites; risks from wildlife such as stink bugs and spiders noted in reviews.
Active alertsNone explicitly noted.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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
Emergency services, including hospitals, are greater than 10 miles away. Glasgow houses medical clinics and larger hospitals.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available; users note that these are well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Barren River Lake; sandy beach available.
Common complaintsSeveral sites are sloped. Noise from nearby highway. Limited dining options during weekdays and off-season. Lack of Wi-Fi in many areas.
HostHosts reportedly friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
1149 State Park Rd, Lucas, Kentucky, 42156-9709, United States
Driving directionsThe resort is located 44 miles southeast of Bowling Green. Take I-65 to the Cumberland Parkway East, to US 31E South.
Accessible via major highways including I-65 and US 31E. Roads leading to the campground are paved and manageable for vehicles of varied sizes.Nearby places
Bowling Green (44 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Glasgow (approximately 15 miles, around 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Less than 1 mile: Bait and tackle store, firewood, vehicle fuel services
Within 10 miles: Supermarkets and additional supplies.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Barren River Lake State Resort Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users highlight the park's natural beauty, variety of recreational options, and friendly staff. However, complaints about uneven campsites, outdated facilities, and limited dining options during off-peak times are common.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful staff, a beautiful lake, and a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Many users also praise...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include uneven campsites, limited privacy, outdated lodge and cabin facilities, and restricted restaurant hours during off-peak times. Some users found the proximity to the highway...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own food during off-peak times when the restaurant is closed. Golf carts are popular for getting around the campground. For RV visitors, ensure you have long cords and hoses due to awkward...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often praise the beach and water activities, while spring and fall reviews highlight the hiking trails. Winter reviews are absent as the park closes from November to March.
Camper Quotes
'What a beautiful place!!!' - Heather B. | 'The lake itself is a gem, mostly tree-lined with some bluffs and cliffs.' - John Paul Combs | 'Showers didn't work at all, but the lake was great.' - Renee...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1–15 are recommended for RVs due to their size. However, users mention uneven ground and awkward water hookups in some areas like 79A. Site 50 is noted as having a dangerous drop-off.
Accessibility Features
The park accommodates disabled guests by waiving golf cart permit fees for those with disability tags. However, some areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the villas and some cabins. Pet owners appreciate the spacious outdoor areas for walking their dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025