Follow Summer Into Fall At Kentucky State Parks

No matter how you like to enjoy the waning days of summer and approaching autumn, there's an opportunity at a Kentucky State Park to suit you.

Looking for a fun family weekend before school begins or just a fun weekend getaway? Visit Barren River Lake State Resort Park for Family Night Out(side) in the campground Aug. 13-15. This is a great opportunity to experience camping, whether in a tent or an RV.

Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site will be hosting a special exhibit about the Chickasaw Nation’s history from Aug. 1-March 31, 2011.

Carter Caves State Resort Park is once again hosting the Bil Lepp “Liar” Comedy Dinner Theater on Aug. 27 and 28.

Carter Caves State Resort Park is celebrating the 40th anniversary of a musical tradition with the Fraley Mountain Music Gatherin’ Sept. 8-11.

The Kentucky State Parks are offering several “girlfriend getaways” during the upcoming months at its resort parks across the state. The parks offer lodge rooms and cottages that make for great weekend gatherings for friends and family members. The parks also have full-service restaurants, hiking trails, picnic areas, golf and other activities. Click here for a listing of the special weekends being offered. Most packages include some meals.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park will host this year’s PhotoScenic Kentucky Weekend Sept. 24-25.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park is offering a great weekend opportunity for anyone interested in fall colors and wildlife viewing with its Hawktoberfest Oct. 1-3.

If you’re thinking about getting a little boating in before summer ends, Barren River Lake State Resort Park has a great deal for you. Rent a pontoon boat for all day for $175 plus tax and the park will throw in a lodge room for free. The lodging offer is good for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights with the boat use for the following day. The park is also offering a two-night package with the use of the boat for two days for an additional $150 plus tax.

Find out more at www.parks.ky.gov.

And in Frankfort, Beat the summer blues with a little Kentucky music therapy in downtown Frankfort with the Voices of Kentucky Concert on Thursday, Aug. 26 and the Bill Monroe Centennial Kick-Off Concert on Thursday, Sept. 9. Sponsored by the Kentucky Folklife Program, an interagency program of the Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) and the Kentucky Arts Council, both concerts will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Cralle-Day Garden, located behind the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History.