PENNYRILE FOREST STATE RESORT PARK

Dawson Springs, Kentucky

With the dawn of March comes the itch for shedding winter clothes and embracing warmer weather. Thoughts begin to turn to budding flowers, outdoor activities, and Spring Break. If you’re reading this thinking, “Oh no, I still haven’t made Spring Break plans,” Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park has you covered.

The park’s 24-room stone lodge overlooks Pennyrile Lake near Dawson Springs, Ky., and offers comfortable rooms in close proximity to the park’s restaurant. A large stone fireplace invites visitors to relax, along with the outdoor stone patio that overlooks the lake and forest. Cottages are also available, including a few on the lake with private docks. For those who prefer camping, the campground is open from mid-March through midNovember, with equestrian campsites open year-round.

If you’re a golfer, be sure to check out the regulation 18-hole golf course, which is open all year, weather permitting. A pro-shop, golf carts, and rental clubs are all available. For little ones, an 18-hole miniature golf course is onsite.

Hikers will enjoy the seven trails, with options from easy to difficult, that loop around the lake and through the forest areas. For those who prefer exploring trails aboard their equine friends, a 1.25-mile horse trail near the horse campground connects riders to the 40-plus miles of horseback riding trails in Pennyrile State Forest.

Pining for spring birding prospects?

The Lake Trail offers year-round birding opportunities, with a range of winged creatures on display. To view sightings of specific species, check out Kentucky State Parks’ eBird page: parks.ky.gov/things_ to_do/birding . You can also observe the birds while you dine at the lodge restaurant by requesting a table near the birdfeeders.

Fish for your supper at Pennyrile Lake, where bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and largemouth bass may all be caught. The park offers loaner fishing gear upon request. Just remember to purchase your fishing license online through the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife. While you’re at it, stop by Fisherman’s Rock off the Lake Trail for a terrific fishing spot and a beautiful view of the lake.

Other family fun options include playgrounds, a horseshoe pit, a tennis court, basketball court, and picnic areas.

Come back after Memorial Day for swimming in the park’s pool and lake. Lounge on the lake’s beach, where sandcastles and sculptures are known to pop up in the summer. The boat dock offers rentals of pedal boats, stand-up paddle boards, canoes, and kayaks for seasonal use.

For a reasonably priced Spring Break trip that is full of fun and outdoor activities, book a stay at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park or one of Kentucky’s other 45 state parks, including 17 resort parks with restaurants, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses. Reservations are available through Parks.ky.gov.

KENTUCKY

LEXINGTON,

Original art by Sebastian Duverge

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