Buckhorn KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Buckhorn, Kentucky.
1. Buckhorn Lake
SCENIC WATER RECREATION PARADISE
Buckhorn Lake is a stunning 1,200-acre body of water offering breathtaking views and numerous water-based activities in Eastern Kentucky. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and various water sports with 95 boating slips available for convenience. The lake is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
2. Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
COMPLETE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park offers a comprehensive outdoor experience with comfortable lodge accommodations overlooking the beautiful lake. The park features handcrafted attractions, outdoor recreational activities, and serene natural surroundings for all visitors to enjoy. Guests particularly appreciate the polite staff, beautiful views, and the opportunity to experience the relaxing vistas from private balconies or the lodge overlook.
3. The Mother Goose
WHIMSICAL CULTURAL LANDMARK
The Mother Goose is a unique attraction that draws visitors to Buckhorn with its distinctive charm and character. This local point of interest offers travelers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and artistic expression of the region. Visitors often include The Mother Goose in their itinerary as one of the signature experiences when exploring Buckhorn.
4. Buckhorn Lake Hiking Trail
SCENIC NATURE PATHWAY
The Buckhorn Lake Hiking Trail offers a 1.5-mile pathway through the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding Buckhorn Lake. Hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the lake and opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. The trail provides an accessible outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts of all skill levels seeking to connect with Eastern Kentucky's wilderness.
5. Buckhorn Mini-Golf Course
FAMILY FUN ACTIVITY
Buckhorn Mini-Golf Course provides a delightful recreational option for families visiting the Buckhorn Lake area. This family-friendly attraction offers a fun way to spend time together while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Eastern Kentucky. The course is designed to entertain visitors of all ages, making it a perfect activity for creating lasting vacation memories.
6. Buckhorn Wildlife Viewing Area
NATURAL HABITAT OBSERVATION
The Buckhorn Wildlife Viewing Area offers visitors a chance to observe native Kentucky wildlife in their natural environment. Bird watchers and nature photographers will find ample opportunities to spot various species within the diverse ecosystems around Buckhorn Lake. The designated viewing areas provide peaceful settings for connecting with nature and appreciating the biodiversity of Eastern Kentucky.
7. Buckhorn Lake Boat Marina
WATERCRAFT ACCESS POINT
Buckhorn Lake Boat Marina serves as the primary access point for water recreation on the 1,200-acre lake. With 95 boating slips available, the marina accommodates visitors looking to enjoy fishing, boating, and other water sports activities. The facility provides essential services for lake enthusiasts seeking to make the most of Buckhorn's aquatic offerings.
8. Buckhorn Picnic Areas
SCENIC OUTDOOR DINING SPOTS
The Buckhorn Picnic Areas provide well-maintained spaces for outdoor dining amid the natural beauty of Eastern Kentucky. Families and groups can enjoy meals surrounded by picturesque views of Buckhorn Lake and the surrounding landscapes. These designated picnic grounds include convenient amenities that enhance the outdoor dining experience for visitors exploring Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park.
9. Natural Bridge State Resort Park
ICONIC GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Natural Bridge State Resort Park features a spectacular sandstone arch that stands as one of Kentucky's most impressive natural landmarks. Located within reasonable driving distance from Buckhorn, this park offers numerous hiking trails leading to and around the 65-foot-tall natural bridge formation. Visitors can also enjoy additional amenities including a lodge, restaurant, and seasonal swimming pool while exploring this geological wonder.
10. Red River Gorge
WORLD-CLASS OUTDOOR RECREATION
Red River Gorge is a canyon system renowned for its incredible rock formations, natural arches, and world-class rock climbing opportunities near Buckhorn. This internationally recognized outdoor destination features over 100 natural sandstone arches within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Hikers, climbers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts flock to this remarkable area to experience its unique geological features and diverse ecosystem.
11. Kentucky Coal Mining Museum
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Kentucky Coal Mining Museum preserves and presents the rich history of coal mining that shaped Eastern Kentucky's economy and culture. Located in nearby Benham, this comprehensive museum features authentic mining equipment, historical photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of coal miners' lives and work. Visitors gain valuable insights into the industrial heritage that continues to influence the region surrounding Buckhorn.
12. Daniel Boone National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Daniel Boone National Forest encompasses over 700,000 acres of protected wilderness that surrounds the Buckhorn area with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. This expansive forest features countless hiking trails, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and pristine streams for visitors to explore and enjoy. The diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts seeking authentic outdoor experiences in Eastern Kentucky.
13. Kingdom Come State Park
MOUNTAINTOP SCENIC VIEWS
Kingdom Come State Park sits atop Pine Mountain offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Cumberland Valley not far from Buckhorn. Named after the John Fox Jr. novel, this park features unique geological formations including massive sandstone outcroppings and an impressive natural bridge. Visitors can explore several hiking trails, enjoy picnic facilities, and witness breathtaking vistas from overlooks reaching elevations of 2,700 feet.
14. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
LAKE RECREATION DESTINATION
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park offers comprehensive recreational facilities centered around the beautiful 1,100-acre Dewey Lake within driving distance of Buckhorn. The park provides comfortable lodge accommodations, cabin rentals, camping facilities, and a marina for visitors seeking water-based activities. Guests can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife observation while experiencing the natural beauty of Eastern Kentucky's mountain lake environment.
15. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
MAGNIFICENT WATERFALL EXPERIENCE
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park showcases the breathtaking 'Niagara of the South,' a 125-foot wide waterfall that creates a stunning 68-foot drop over a rock shelf. This magnificent natural attraction is famous for displaying a moonbow, a rare rainbow phenomenon visible during full moon periods. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy guided horseback riding, and experience various outdoor activities while witnessing the power and beauty of this iconic Kentucky waterfall.