Department of Parks
Rough River State Resort Park Offers Canoe Excursions Beginning May 1

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Beginning May 1, Rough River Dam State Resort Park will offer canoe lessons and/or excursions on beautiful Rough River Lake, the Rough River below Rough River Dam, and to nearby Mammoth Cave National Park. Lessons or trips can be planned to fit a group’s time and skill level.

The Recreation Department at Rough River has eight new canoes for these excursions.  These trips are not limited to vacationing park guests. They also can be presented for corporate groups, Boy Scout Troops, outdoor clubs, family reunions, and other organizations.  Overnight canoe backcountry camping trips also are being planned. Refreshments and meals can be provided.

Highlights include learning the history of the Rough River area and Rough River State Park, Rough River Lake’s origins and the operation of the dam, unique topographical and natural features of the area, and the historic Falls of Rough Mill and Green Farm Mansion.  While in Mammoth Cave National Park, learn about the massive cave system and its unique natural features.

Canoe trips also are offered out of Blue Licks State Resort Park, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Carter Caves State Resort Park and Jenny Wiley State Resort Park.

For more information on Rough River Canoe Excursions, please contact Recreation Supervisor Shawn Pickens at 270-257-2311 or through email at Shawn.Pickens@ky.gov. For information on trips at the other state parks, visit www.parks.ky.gov.

The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 52 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Commerce Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. Each year, Kentucky parks draw 7 million visitors and contribute $317 million to the economy. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our Web site at http://www.parks.ky.gov