FAQs

Welcome to the Kentucky State Parks Frequently Asked Questions page!

We want planning your visit to be as simple and enjoyable as the experience itself. Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about reservations, lodging, dining, events, and park activities—plus helpful tips from real guest feedback. Whether you’re booking a weekend getaway, planning a family reunion, or just stopping by for the day, this page will guide you step-by-step so you can make the most of your time at Kentucky State Parks.

 

1. Reservations & Cancellations

Q: How far in advance can I make a reservation?
A: Lodge rooms, cottages, and campsites can be reserved up to one year in advance online or by phone.

Q: Do I have to make a reservation to stay overnight?
A: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times. Walk-ins are accepted based on availability. You must be 21 years of age to reserve a room or campsite.

Q: What is your cancellation and refund policy?
A: Cancellations made before the park’s deadline (usually 48–72 hours prior) are refunded, minus a small cancellation fee. Refunds are generally processed back to the original payment method within 7–10 business days.

Q: What if I booked the wrong park or need to change dates?
A: Contact the park or customer service immediately. We will work to transfer your reservation or adjust dates without penalties when possible.

Q: How do I request a receipt for my stay?
A: Email or call the park with your reservation number and stay dates. Receipts can be emailed for reimbursement or recordkeeping.

Q: Do you offer extended stay/monthly campsite rates?
A: Select parks offer monthly camper rates that typically include water, electric, and sewer. Contact the park office for availability and rates.

 

2. Payments, Gift Cards & Discounts

Q: I haven’t received my refund or gift card. What should I do?
A: Contact customer service with your order number or cancellation confirmation. We will assist with tracking or reissuing.

Q: Are there discounts for seniors or state employees?
A: Yes. Guests age 62+ receive 10% off lodging and camping (with ID). Seasonal Kentucky state employee discounts are also offered—ask when booking.

Q: Do I have to pay sales tax at state parks?
A: Yes, state sales tax applies to lodging, camping, golf, boat rentals, and most purchases.

 

3. Lodging & Amenities

Q: What amenities are included in cabins, cottages, and lodges?
A: Most accommodations include towels, linens, and basic kitchen items (where applicable). Some cabins have microwaves and dishes.  Here is what each are equipped with: cottage-amenitiesb6cfe3863dd5430aa5bc588edbd0a280.pdf

Q: Can I request a pet-friendly or non-smoking room?
A: Yes, pet-friendly rooms/cabins are available for an additional fee ($30 + tax lodge, $50 + tax cabin). Non-smoking rooms are available upon request.  For additional information, please reference our pet policy.

Q: What if I need housekeeping or linen exchange?
A: Daily housekeeping is provided by request. Contact the front desk for service or linen exchange during your stay.

 

4. Dining & Seasonal Events

Q: Are park restaurants open to the public?
A: Yes. Lodges and golf courses welcome the public—overnight stay is not required.

Q: Do you offer special holiday meals?
A: Many resort parks serve Easter, Thanksgiving, and Mother's Day. Check the park’s event calendar or call ahead for menus, pricing, and seating times.

Q: Are bars and lounges open year-round?
A: Hours vary by season—contact the lodge front desk for current hours.

Q: Do you offer healthy menu options?
A: Menus are updated regularly and include fresh salads, soups, and lighter entrees where available.

 

5. Park Activities & Rules

Q: Are pets allowed in parks and on trails?
A: Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas but must be leashed. They are restricted from nature preserves, beaches, and some historic sites. Service animals are always permitted.  Please see our pet policy here.

Q: Where can I find park maps and brochures?
A: Printed maps are available at park offices. Digital maps and trail info are on the Kentucky State Parks website and soon, in our brand-new mobile app.

Q: Can I fly a drone or use a metal detector?
A: Drone use requires a permit, proof of insurance, and license. Metal detecting is prohibited in all state parks.

Q: Which parks have equestrian trails?
A: Carter Caves, Dale Hollow, Greenbo Lake, Green River Lake, and Taylorsville Lake offer equestrian trails. Horse camping is available at select parks.


Drone applications must be accompanied by a copy of the user license and proof of insurance. Without these 2 documents the application cannot be processed.  

6. Events, Groups & Conferences

Q: How do I book a wedding, reunion, or conference at a park?

A: Parks offer event spaces, catering, and lodging. Fill out our Request for Proposal and the park’s group sales coordinator will contact you for your event.

Q: Are special permits required for events?

A: Yes, a Special Use Permit may be needed. The park office can guide you through the process.  Begin by filling out a special use permit.

7. Website & Communication Help
Q: How can I give feedback or file a complaint?
A: Use the “Contact Us” form online or speak to a park manager during your stay. We value guest input and use it to improve service.
Q: How do I get a Kentucky State Parks park brochure mailed to me?
A: Submit a brochure request online or call any park office and provide your mailing address.

 

8. General Questions
Q.  What is the difference between a resort park and a regular state park?
A. Resort parks include a lodge with restaurants and overnight accommodations. We have 17 State Resort Parks in all. We have an additional 28 9 regular state parks that include State Historic Sites and State "Recreation" Parks. The distinction is not clear cut, however. Many of our recreation parks and resort parks have historical significance. One of our resort parks, Blue Licks Battlefield, sits on the site of a Revolutionary War Battle.

Q. How much is the admission charge to a Kentucky State Park?
A. We charge no general admission fee.

Q.  How can I get involved helping out my local park?
A. Join one of the many Kentucky State Parks Friends Groups. CLICK HERE for more!

Q. Do your golf courses have a dress code?

A. All players are asked to wear a shirt with a collar or a "mock neck." Guests are asked to refrain from wearing cutoffs.

Q. How does the 100th Anniversary Craft Beer support the Kentucky State Parks system?
A. Five percent of sales will go toward future improvements to the Kentucky State Parks system.  Craft Beer Locations