On December 1, 1964, the Kentucky State Parks system approved Lake Barkley State Resort Park; which is named for United States congressman, senator and vice president, Alban Barkley (1877-1956). The secretary of the Army approved the leasing of 1,800 acres of land along the shores of Lake Barkley for a public park and recreation facility. The state purchased 1,400 acres of surrounding land for a total of 3,200 acres. In the spring of 1966 the Economic Development Administration approved the Lake Barkley State Resort Park project to complete the most elaborate and largest state park in Kentucky.
Lake Barkley State Resort Park presently sits on 186,000 acres of land, offering amenities such as an airport, contemporary resort lodge, state of the art fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, public beach and camping. Activities include boating, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, mountain biking, trap shooting, golfing on the 18-hole Boots Randolph Golf Course, and hiking on nearly seven miles of developed trails.
Hiking Trails at Lake Barkley include Lena Madesin Phillips Trail (0.6 miles), Wilderness Trail (2.8 miles), Wagon Wheel Trail (0.3 miles), Cedar Grove Trail (1.7 miles), Blue Springs Trail (1.3 miles), Fitness Center Trail (0.08 miles), Racer Ridge Trail (1.2 miles), and Stable Trail (1.6 miles). Stable Trail is the widest and most well-groomed trail, as it is used for equestrian trail rides. Trail rides run from Memorial Day through Labor Day; and during the summer months you are only allowed to hike Stable Trail before 9:00 a.m. All trails are maintained by Friends of Lake Barkley.
Lake Barkley State Resort Park does not offer tall mountains or massive bluffs; though you may find the occasional limestone outcropping or large boulder. However, you will encounter picturesque lake views, peaceful woods, and rolling knobs and ridges. You will come away from a long day of hiking feeling accomplished and relaxed. A walk through the woods at Lake Barkley does the soul a world of good, and is a great stress reliever. Please be respectful of the natural beauty and wildlife as you visit this state resort park, and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”
