Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park

Tucked into the rugged Daniel Boone country of Perry County, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park spreads across 856 acres of eastern Kentucky’s most dramatic Appalachian landscape. The park wraps around Buckhorn Lake, a 1,200-acre impoundment of the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River, where steep forested hillsides plunge directly into clear mountain water.

What sets Buckhorn Lake apart is its sense of remoteness. Unlike busier Kentucky resort parks, this one feels genuinely secluded — the winding mountain roads that lead here filter out casual visitors and reward those who make the trip. The lake itself is less developed than many in the state, which means quieter coves, less boat traffic, and better fishing. Anglers come for bass, crappie, and bluegill, and the lake’s sheltered inlets make it particularly good for kayaking and canoeing.

The park’s trail system winds through mixed hardwood forest typical of the Cumberland Plateau, offering moderate hikes with ridgeline views over the lake and surrounding hollows. Swimming is available at the park’s seasonal pool, and a small beach area provides lake access during warmer months.

Buckhorn Lodge, perched above the water, offers comfortable rooms with lake views — a solid option for visitors who want to explore the area without roughing it.

Spring wildflower season and fall foliage are the standout times to visit, when the surrounding mountains put on their best show. Summer brings warm water and full amenities, while winter offers solitude and misty mountain mornings that feel worlds away from anywhere.

Explore Nearby

• Boone Creek Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Kentucky
• Red River Gorge Scenic Byways — Scenic Byway in Kentucky
• Daniel Boone National Forest — National Forest in Kentucky
• Hillsboro Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky
• Ringos Mill Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky