The Best Outdoor Recreation in Western Kentucky

In a state as diverse and interesting as Kentucky, there's never a dull moment. In fact, in Kentucky there are thousands of miles of land and water trails to explore, and a variety of adrendaline-pumping activities to take part in. Whether it's the lakes and caves of Western Kentucky, the central rolling hills where horses and bourbon reign supreme, or the rugged hills of Daniel Boone Country and the Kentucky Appalachians in the east, Kentucky is home to a variety of distinct regions.  Though each region is different in their own right, the unbridled spirit that runs through the veins of Kentucky natives can be found everywhere you go. No where else is this more true than in the western reaches of Kentucky.  Come explore the unbeatable outdoor recreation in rough-and-tumble Western Kentucky this summer.  Book a room at any one of our incredible Kentucky Inns, and discover the fascinating western corner of this amazing state.

Kentucky's western region is both timeless and unique.  Western Kentucky is bordered by the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and is home to the two largest lakes in the state.  Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area are a popular vacation destination.  Who doesn't want to be on the water during the hottest months of the year?  With all the water recreation imaginable, from fishing, waterskiing, sailing, tubing, kayaking, and more, Western Kentucky has it all. The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is arguably the best place to spend time in Western Kentucky.  It is an outstanding 170,000 acre outdoor playground extending from Western Kentucky into Tennessee.  This popular outdoor recreation area is located on a peninsula between Kentucky and Barkley lakes.  In total, there are 300 miles of shoreline and 500 miles of trails for hiking, biking, off-road riding, and horseback riding to explore.  The lakes are easily accessible for activities like camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and water sports.  You'll also find authentic Kentucky experiences at the Woodlands Nature Station, Elk & Bison Prairie, Homeplace 1850s Working Farm, and Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory. Though the Land Between the Lakes Area is certainly worth a visit, there are also plenty of other great places to visit.  The 784-acre Lake Beshear is one of the best fishing and pleasure-boating lakes in Western Kentucky.  Fish include crappie, bluegill, green sunfish, longear sunfish, channel catfish and blue catfish.  Both Grapevine Lake and Lake PeeWee are excellent kayaking or canoeing destinations.  Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is filled with opportunities for bird and wildlife watching, fishing, and miles of equestrian, mountain bike riding and hiking trails.  You'll also find wonderful birding opportunities at the Tradewater River Wildlife Management Area. Whether you're seeking a quiet respite in nature or an extreme adventure in the Kentucky Wilderness, you'll find it in Western Kentucky. The accommodations in Kentucky are just as warm and familiar as you'd expect when you choose one of our Kentucky member Inns. Book your vacation with us today, and then get busy making plans in Western Kentucky to get in touch with your inner outdoorsmen.