LUCAS, Ky. (Jan. 15, 2025) – Building on the New Kentucky Home initiative, Barren River Lake State Resort Park will receive $9.5 million in upgrades to enhance the visitor experience and attract new travelers.
“Our state parks contribute to Kentucky’s thriving $14.3 billion tourism industry, which is why Team Kentucky is committed to investing in these projects to help drive more visitors to our New Kentucky Home,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “These improvements at Barren River Lake State Resort Park mean guests get to experience modern amenities while exploring the great outdoors.”
The $6 million in improvements to the lodge include updating lodge rooms with new finishes, flooring, bathrooms and mini fridges. The restaurant, lobby and meeting room will also receive updates. Other upgrades include $3.5 million for new HVAC and mechanical systems, and a new chiller to improve guest comfort in lodge rooms and common areas.
The renovation will temporarily close all lodge rooms beginning in February 2026, with the new and improved rooms expected to reopen when construction is finished in the fall of 2026.
“This investment in Barren River Lake State Resort Park shows our ongoing commitment to providing the best recreational opportunities for Kentuckians and visitors,” said Kentucky State Parks Deputy Commissioner Mark Kellen. “These upgrades ensure that our parks remain a top destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts for years to come.”
During the 2024 legislative session, Gov. Beshear signed House Joint Resolution 56, releasing $71 million for capital construction projects, including the improvements to Barren River and projects throughout the Parks system, including building system upgrades, accommodation improvements and recreational amenity enhancements. Gov. Beshear also signed House Bill 6, allocating over $66 million for upgrades to various state parks.
Gov. Beshear announced that $720,000 in new grant funding is available for Kentucky Trail Towns to repair, enhance and promote recreational projects.
To capitalize on Kentucky’s historic economic momentum and record-breaking tourism success, Gov. Beshear announced New Kentucky Home, a strategic initiative to further drive economic investment, attract and retain talent and increase tourism across the commonwealth.
Earlier this year, Gov. Beshear announced that 2024 was the strongest year on record for tourism, generating $14.3 billion in economic impact and supporting 97,394 jobs. This milestone marks the third straight record-breaking year for tourism in Kentucky.
Kentucky’s impressive economic success over the last five years is a direct reflection of the Beshear administration’s continued investments in the tourism industry.
In December 2024, Gov. Beshear announced that the commonwealth achieved another historic milestone, marking a new record with 10 new tourism development projects set to generate an estimated $256 million in economic investment. These projects are also expected to create 1,696 jobs once operational.
In 2022, Gov. Beshear announced $75 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to boost the state’s tourism industry and economy. Previously, the Governor dedicated $5.3 million in federal funding to 103 tourism and destination marketing organizations in 88 Kentucky counties.
Since the beginning of the Beshear administration, 33 tourism development projects totaling an estimated investment of $1 billion have received final approval. Once operational, these projects will create roughly 4,825 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history.
For the latest updates and information on events at Kentucky State Parks, visit parks.ky.gov. Kentucky is home to 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses. For more information about Kentucky State Parks, visit parks.ky.gov.