Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers a rich outdoor experience with extensive hiking trails, a large lake for fishing and boating, and wooded scenery ideal for camping and wildlife viewing in western Kentucky.
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park covers over 1,200 acres in western Kentucky’s Christian County and provides visitors with forested landscapes centered around 56-acre Pennyrile Lake. The park's terrain is characterized by rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and open meadows, supporting diverse flora such as oak, hickory, and eastern redbud, along with abundant wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds. Established in 1954, the park has developed into a prime destination for outdoor recreation within the Pennyrile region, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, mountain biking, boating, and camping. The trail system spans several miles and features routes for all skill levels, passing through woodlands and along the lakeshore with scenic views. The resort-style amenities include a lodge with accommodations and a restaurant, making it a popular spot for both day visitors and overnight stays. Fishing enthusiasts can catch bass, catfish, and bluegill in the lake, while paddle sports like kayaking and canoeing are well supported by rental services. In addition to recreation, the park highlights its natural beauty with interpretive displays and provides picnic facilities, playgrounds, and open spaces for family outings. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park appeals both to nature lovers seeking moderate solitude and to active visitors interested in engaging with woodland and aquatic environments.
Pennyrile Lake – a 56-acre lake offering fishing and paddle sports
A network of mixed-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking
The Pennyrile Lodge – historic accommodations with scenic views
Quiet backwoods areas for wildlife observation and photography
A central 56-acre lake stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill, enabling fishing, canoeing, and kayaking activities.
Historic accommodations featuring rooms and a restaurant overlooking the lake and forested hills.
Over 14 miles of trails that accommodate hikers and mountain bikers with varied terrain and scenic views.