Kentucky Department of Parks

Pennyrile Forest State Resort ParkNamed for the tiny Pennyroyal plant found in the woodlands surrounding this resort, Pennyrile Forest is the perfect back-to-nature hideaway.

Pennyrile Lodge

The rustic wood and stone Pennyrile Lodge, with 24 rooms, sits serenely on a high cliff overlooking Pennyrile Lake. Open year-round. Rooms available by late afternoon. Check-out by noon, Central Time. Pets are not allowed (with the exception of service dogs).

 
High speed wireless internet service available at the lodge.

Cottages

The park has 12 cottages located in the wooded lodge area and on the shores of Pennyrile Lake. The one and two-bedroom cottages have unique features, offering wooded or lake views, and such amenities as private boat and fishing docks, fireplaces, or screened-in porches. Tableware, cooking utensils, and linens are provided, with fresh linens available daily.Open year-round. Cottages available by late afternoon. Check-out by 11:00 AM, Central Time. Pets are not allowed (with the exception of service dogs).

Clifty Creek Restaurant

 Sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while checking the new menu, which features traditional Kentucky cuisine, such as, country fried chicken, farm raised catfish and the famous hot brown. Chef Charles Underwood's specialties include Smoked Baby back ribs, grilled catfish, pastas and more, plus homemade fried apple pie. The restaurant seats 200, including a private dining room for up to 80. As a supporter of Kentucky Proud program we utilize locally grown meats and produce when available.  

Camping

Enjoy the beauty of the Pennyrile Forest in the 68-site campground. The campground features utility hook ups, a dump station, and one central service building with showers, rest rooms, and a laundry. Pets are allowed if restrained. Closed for season from mid-November to mid-March. 

Things To Do

Miniature Golf

To "par"fect your putting, play a round of miniature golf on an 18-hole course. Rate: $2.50.

Basketball/Tennis

Enjoy a day of competition on our newly refurbished basketball/tennis court. Overnight guests may check out basketball/tennis equipment.

Planned Recreation

Enjoy recreation and interpretive programs under the direction of a full-time recreation supervisor. Daily summer recreational activities are conducted by a seasonal recreational staff.

Picnicking & Playgrounds

Grills are available at all cottages and campsites. Picnic shelters, tables, and playgrounds are located throughout the park. Shelters available for rental up to one year in advance

Gift Shop

Visit the gift shop which offers a large selection of Kentucky handcrafts and souvenirs.

For a fun-filled day on the lake, visit the boat dock. Rental pedal boats, row boats, canoes, and trolling motors are available. Larger motorboats are restricted from Pennyrile Lake. Lake Beshear, located four miles from the lodge, also offers fishing challenges. Larger motorboats are allowed there.

"Tee-time!" Test your skills on the regulation 18-hole golf course. A pro-shop, riding carts, pull carts, and rental clubs are available. Course open year-round, weather permitting. Eighteen-hole golf packages available. View more information.

Grab your fishing pole! Pennyrile Lake is home to bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, and largemouth bass.

Bring your camera, because the photo opportunities are limitless on the nature trails. Seven trails loop around the lake and through the forest areas and are rated from easy to difficult in hiking ability. View trail information.

Take the plunge in the lodge pool or sunbath at the public beach. The pool is adjacent to the lodge and is available for lodge and cottage guests. Enjoy sand between your toes and the gentle waves of Pennyrile Lake at the beach, adjacent to the boat dock. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day.

Make A Reservation

For camping, cottages and lodge rooms make your reservation online today: Campground or Cottage or Lodge.

Group Meeting Facilities

Pennyrile Forest State Resort has the perfect meeting facility for your group. Click to view  Meeting Facilities page.

Naturalist & Recreation News

Through the dedicated work of our state park naturalists, Kentucky State Parks protect and preserve the natural beauty of Kentucky. Check out our Naturalist & Recreation News for more information!

Featured Event

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration
5/23/2008 to 5/26/2008

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park will begin offering daily nature & recreation activities Friday night May 23rd. Activities include, but are not limited to: junior naturalist programs, guided nature hikes, story telling, campfire programs, sports activities, and arts and crafts.

More Information

Contact Information

Pennyrile State Resort Park
20781 Pennyrile Lodge Road
Dawson Springs, KY 42408-9212
Telephone: 270-797-3421
Toll Free: 800-325-1711
Park Manager:  Peter Bowles