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Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
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BUCKHORN LAKE STATE RESORT PARK
BUCKHORN LAKE STATE RESORT PARK
4441 Ky Hwy. 1833
Buckhorn, Kentucky   41721

Phone: 606-398-7510
Email: park email button icon
On June 28, 1938, under what has come to be known as the Flood Control Acts of 1938, Congress authorized the construction of a dam and reservoir about 43 miles above the mouth of the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River and about a half mile upstream from Buckhorn, Ky. The dam is 162 feet high, 1,020 feet long, and 842 wide at the maximum base. The reservoir located in both Leslie and Perry Counties covers 550 acres, and the seasonal pool is 1,230 acres.

The Kentucky State Parks Board approved the acceptance of Buckhorn Lake into the commonwealths parks system on January 18, 1961. The area has some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in Kentucky. However, the seclusion of the park caused a great deal of difficulty in obtaining road access during the early 1960s. The Kentucky Department of Highways constructed a road over the mountain to the park, but the stabilization of the road took two years before commercial traffic could utilize it. The park did not officially open until 1965.

Located in the northern portion of the Daniel Boone National Forest in the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau, Buckhorn Lake State Park has 856 acres of lush Kentucky mountain land. The name for the park and nearby town came from the discovery of a bucks horn at a nearby saltlick. Another story recounts how Jerry Smith, the first white settler in the area killed a four snag buck, thus giving the name to the community. The surrounding forest is filled with wildlife and Buckhorn Lake has excellent fishing. Bluegill, large and smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, and muskie abound in the lakes waters.

By August 1964 Buckhorn Lake had a 24-room lodge, a beach, bathhouse, picnic facilities, and camping sites. On May 22, 1967 the Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration approved a project to further develop the park. New lodge rooms, resort pool, boat slips, horseback riding trails, fishing pier, and miniature golf course were added to the park.
Cottages
If you desire seclusion, but need convenience, we have the perfect accommodations for you. Two, two-bedroom executive cottages and three, three-bedroom executive cottages are available. Tableware, cooking utensils, and linens are provided, with fresh linens available daily. Open year-round. Cottages available by late afternoon. Check out by 1000am, local time. A limited number of cottages will be available for pets.
Lodge
Surrounded by rolling, tree-covered hills, the lodge overlooks the beautiful 1,200-acre lake. The lodge has 36 rooms offering full amenities as well as two 2-bedroom cottages and three 3-bedroom cottages. Cottage check out by 1000am, local time.

Open year-round. Rooms are available by late afternoon. Lodge room check-out by 1100am, local time. A limited number of lodge rooms will be available for pets.
Swimming
The lodge swimming pool is for the exclusive use of lodge and cottage guests. The public beach has a bathhouse complex for visitor convenience. Swimming is seasonal. Beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Boating
Water sports enthusiasts will find entertainment on Buckhorn Lake. The marina has 95 open slips, two launching ramps, rental pontoon boats, and fishing boats. Open April - October $.
Fishing
You can cast away your cares at Buckhorn Lake The lake is home to largemouth and Kentucky bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and muskie.

A Kentucky Fishing License is required.

Don't have a fishing pole No problem Stop by the marina and ask about their fishing loaner program where you can check out FREE equipment.


Location
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park is located near Hazard, Jackson and Manchester

Picnicking
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park offers scenic picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for family outings or romantic lunches.
Trails
Hikers can explore the natural beauty and resources of Buckhorn Lake with a stroll along a 1.5 mile, self-guiding, moderately strenuous walking trail.
Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts should be aware that the park does not offer designated biking trails. Exercise caution when cycling on roadways.

While there are no specific bike rentals available within the resort, visitors can bring their own bicycles.

The terrain is hilly and may pose a challenge for inexperienced riders or those with physical limitations.

Roads in this area have limited visibility due to dense forestation; cyclists must stay alert at all times.

Riders need to share roads with vehicles as separate lanes for bikes aren't provided here, so safety measures are crucial.

Remember: helmets and other protective gear should always be worn while bicycling around these parts of Kentucky.
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding options, with over 140 species recorded. It's home to waterfowl and songbirds during migration seasons. The lake attracts ducks, geese and loons while the surrounding forests house warblers, vireos and thrushes among others. Birdwatchers can explore various trails or participate in guided tours for an enhanced experience.

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