Clarkson KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clarkson, Kentucky.
1. Nolin Lake State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Nolin Lake State Park is a popular destination offering 5,795 acres of pristine lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors enjoy spacious campgrounds, hiking trails, and beautiful picnic spots surrounded by natural woodland. Its close proximity to Mammoth Cave makes it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region.
2. Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
INTERACTIVE AUSTRALIAN-THEMED ZOO
Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo features hands-on experiences with kangaroos, lorikeets, and emus in authentically themed Australian habitats. Families can join tours of Mammoth Onyx Cave and learn about the unique wildlife and geology of the area. The attraction also offers educational animal shows and gemstone mining activities for all ages.
3. Cub Run Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Cub Run Cave is renowned for its incredible formations, including rare helictites and massive columns. Guided tours take visitors on a journey through spacious chambers and winding passageways, all illuminated for dramatic effect. The cave maintains a cool, constant temperature, providing a comfortable exploration experience year-round.
4. Moutardier Marina
FULL-SERVICE LAKE MARINA
Moutardier Marina offers boat rentals, fishing supplies, and a general store right on the shores of Nolin Lake. Boaters appreciate the marina's modern slips and direct access to some of Kentucky's best bass fishing. The marina is also a launching point for kayaking, wakeboarding, and lakeside relaxation.
5. Walter T. Kelley Company
BEEKEEPING HERITAGE SITE
The Walter T. Kelley Company is a major manufacturer of beekeeping equipment with roots in Clarkson's history. Visitors can learn about the beekeeping process and explore the company's extensive product showroom. It's an essential stop for anyone interested in Kentucky's beekeeping legacy and agricultural innovation.
6. Clarkson Honeyfest
CELEBRATED ANNUAL FESTIVAL
Clarkson Honeyfest is Kentucky's Official State Honey Festival, held every autumn in the heart of the city. The event features parades, live entertainment, honey tastings, and a wide array of family-friendly activities. It draws visitors from across the region to celebrate the area's beekeeping tradition and vibrant community spirit.
7. Mammoth Cave National Park
WORLD'S LONGEST CAVE SYSTEM
Mammoth Cave National Park is home to over 400 miles of explored passages, making it the longest cave system on Earth. Guided tours range from easy walks to challenging underground adventures, revealing extraordinary geological features. The park also offers hiking, canoeing, and camping above ground in a scenic setting.
8. Rough River Dam State Resort Park
RESORT AND OUTDOOR RETREAT
Rough River Dam State Resort Park is a favorite for fishing, boating, and water sports on its expansive reservoir. The park features charming lodges, riverside cottages, and a campground, all with remarkable lake views. Guests also enjoy golfing, birdwatching, and the serenity of well-maintained hiking trails.
9. Blue Holler OffRoad Park
ATV AND OFF-ROAD PARADISE
Blue Holler OffRoad Park provides more than 1,200 acres of rugged terrain for ATVs, UTVs, and off-road motorcycles. Trails vary from beginner-friendly paths to challenging hill climbs and mud bogs. The park's natural beauty and weekend events make it a destination for adventure seekers year-round.
10. Grayson County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE EXHIBITS
The Grayson County Historical Society Museum offers a thoughtful look at the region's history through curated artifacts, documents, and photographs. Visitors can explore exhibits on pioneer life, the Civil War, and the county's agricultural roots. The museum is housed in a historic building, adding to its authentic atmosphere.
11. Twin Lakes National Fiddler Championship
RENOWNED MUSIC COMPETITION
The Twin Lakes National Fiddler Championship brings talented musicians to Leitchfield every July for a lively, family-friendly music competition. The event features performances from all ages and skill levels, fostering a festive community spirit. Spectators can enjoy bluegrass vendors, food stalls, and impromptu jam sessions.
12. Jack Thomas House
HISTORIC LOCAL LANDMARK
The Jack Thomas House is a picturesque brick structure built in the mid-19th century and is one of Grayson County's oldest residences. Guided tours highlight period furnishings, local artifacts, and stories of the Thomas family's pioneering life. The house is a centerpiece of community events and educational programs.
13. Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum
EXTENSIVE WILDLIFE DISPLAYS
The Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum houses an impressive collection of mounted animals from around the world, displayed in lifelike dioramas. Visitors of all ages can learn about diverse habitats and wildlife preservation efforts. It makes an ideal stop before or after touring the nearby cave systems.
14. Shady Hollow Golf Club
CHALLENGING PUBLIC COURSE
Shady Hollow Golf Club is an 18-hole course known for its rolling terrain, scenic fairways, and welcoming atmosphere. The club offers a driving range, pro shop, and tournaments throughout the year. Golfers of all skill levels find it a rewarding and relaxing outing in the region.
15. Historic Grayson Springs Site
FORMER SPA AND RESORT GROUNDS
The Historic Grayson Springs Site was once a famed mineral spa resort that attracted visitors seeking restorative health treatments in the 19th century. Though the original buildings are gone, the area is steeped in local lore and offers peaceful walking paths. It remains a point of interest for history buffs and those interested in Kentucky's spa heritage.