PLACES WE LOVE
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park Deep in the mountains of southeastern Kentucky, just outside the town of Hazard, lies Buckhorn Lake. By damming the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River for flood control, this 1,200-acre lake became an idyllic setting for a Kentucky State Park, one of many created during the great recreation boom of the 1960s. The land where Buckhorn lodge stands today once held a schoolhouse, and around it, in fact, an entire community. Park visitors can view a miniature recreation of the entire town of Bowlingtown in the lodge lobby, handcrafted by Ance McIntosh Jr. A visit to Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park means being transported away from the
cares of everyday life. A room with a private balcony at the lodge offers views of Buckhorn Lake, the sparkling pool, and forested hills, as well as a quick walk to the lodge restaurant serving park favorites like fried catfish and Kentucky Hot Browns. Two- and three-bedroom cottages are also a great choice for those wishing for more privacy, a full kitchen, and their own deck and grill. While doing nothing at all is certainly enticing in this peaceful setting, a game of miniature golf, lakeside shuffleboard, or a hike on the Leatherwood and Moonshine Hollow Trails can keep the whole family entertained. To fully take advantage of the park’s namesake,
J U N E
2 0 2 2
a sandy beach is open seasonally, or the marina rents pontoon and fishing boats, and has a launching ramp if you prefer to bring your boat. Be sure to explore specialty shops in the town of Hazard and see the famous Mother Goose House, the one-of-a-kind log cathedral built in 1928, or take the long way home to try to spot the 40, 4’ x 4’ quilt blocks that have been painted and displayed throughout the region. Learn more about this mountain gem along with Kentucky’s other 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks with restaurants, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses by visiting parks.ky.gov.
17
