| Barren River Lake State Resort Park | |
| Type: | Kentucky state park |
| Location: | Barren County, Kentucky |
| Map: | Kentucky#USA |
| Created: | 1965 |
| Operator: | Kentucky Department of Parks |
| Open: | All year |
| Coords: | 36.8656°N -86.0692°W |
Barren River Lake State Resort Park is a 1053acres park located in Barren County, Kentucky and extending into parts of Allen County and Monroe County.[1] Barren River Lake, its major feature, is an artificial lake created with the building of a 146adj=midNaNadj=mid dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers begun in 1960. It covers approximately and has 141miles of shoreline.[2] The park was dedicated in 1965.[3]
Fishing is a major attraction at this park. The largest hybrid striped bass ever taken in Kentucky (20 lb., 8 oz.) was caught in Barren River Lake in 1991.[4] The lake contains several other species of fish, including crappie, smallmouth bass, white bass, and big channel catfish.
The lake also includes 4 marinas to support boating and water skiing. Numerous trails provide hiking and biking opportunities. The most popular hiking trail is the 1miles Lewis Hill Trail[3] which is also known as the Connell Nature Trail.[5] Guided horseback rides are available seasonally. The park also features an eighteen-hole golf course.
The Trashmasters cleanup day is a popular volunteer event that helps keep the park clean. Also, each June, the park plays host to Glasgow's Highland Games, a miniature version of the Glasgow, Scotland tradition.