The Great Outdoors in Burkesville-Cumberland County

This annual event that embraces and fortifies community spirit, fun, and fellowship is held each July in Veterans Memorial Park, Burkesville’s City Park. There are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy! Typical events include 4-H exhibits, amusement rides, a truck pull, Lawnmower Derby, pageants, Demolition Derby, horse show, and much more.

With multiple performances on the River Festivus, The Cumberland Queen Riverboat Review is held every year in Veterans Memorial Park to commemorate Burkeville river heritage. During the 1800s, riverboats were the primary mode of transportation for goods using the Cumberland River as a major thoroughfare. It’s a show not to be missed!

The third weekend in September brings some of the finest Bluegrass music around, but it’s not just pickers and singing. Events include a baby show, beauty pageant, 5K run, health fair, arts and crafts, a river ducky derby, and a classic car “Cruise In.” Held in conjunction with the festival is the Cumberland County Quilt Show featuring antique bed turning, a block contest, and a raffle. You won’t go away hungry with the mouthwatering Southern cooking available around every turn. Don’t miss the chance to nourish your body and soul at this annual festival in Veterans Memorial Park. Check here for details.

During the third weekend in May, riders embark from Veterans Memorial Park on the banks of the beautiful Cumberland River for a day-long ride that winds through county roads enjoying some of the most scenic river views, hills, and valleys that you will ever ride through on two wheels. While it is sponsored by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Nashville, all makes and models of bikes are welcome. Check their website for full details.

Visit this biannual vendor extravaganza at Bodock Farms in May and September. Food vendors and live music round out this weekend sale featuring art, craft items, jams and salsa, candles, clothes, jewelry, treasures, and much more.

The Fourth of July is when the cordial hometown spirit of Burkesville takes center stage. There is a sense of community, fellowship, and Southern hospitality that is so often missing in today’s fast-paced world. Festivities are held in Veterans Memorial Park on the banks of the sparkling Cumberland River. From breakfast and a parade to honor veterans to karaoke and fireworks at the end of the night, there is something for everyone! A couple of special events folded into the day like The Southern Kentucky Softball Classic and The Cumberland Queen Riverboat Revue warrant their own descriptions. Check out their respective sections for details.

The River Festivus is an annual event held the 3rd weekend in August. This multi-day event offers a chance to race your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard during the Mighty Cumberland River Run or just relax during the Festivus Float. There are opportunities to shop and eat, participate in fishing tournaments and hear live music from Grammy winning artist. Visit River Festivus for a schedule of events, and to check out options for lodging and dining to plan your trip.

“The Southern,” as it is called, has been part of the Fourth of July Independence Day celebration since 1965. This men’s slow pitch softball tournament is the longest-running such event in the State of Kentucky. Teams from states beyond Kentucky gather in Burkesville to compete for the honored winner’s trophy. More details can be found here.

This annual motorcycle benefit is held on the fourth Sunday of September. To participate, just buy a ticket and wear your riding gear. All of the proceeds go to a local group, We Care, that helps support Cumberland County cancer patients and the Cumberland County Search and Rescue Squad. After the ride, a delicious home-cooked meal is served to the riders by the churches of Cumberland County. There’s also a lively auction. Details about the event can be found here. 

  Cumberland County's public art scene is constantly evolving, with new installations and projects shaping the cultural landscape. Engage with local artists and residents to learn more about the inspiration behind each piece and the stories they tell. Whether you're strolling through towns of Burkesville and Marrowbone  or attending a community event, there's always an opportunity to connect with the vibrant art community of Cumberland County. Click on the link below to learn more murals and public art. 

Burkesville is the Fishing Capital of Kentucky with the Number One Trout Stream in the Eastern United States. Here you can find sauger, crappie, bream, muskie, walleye, trout, catfish, and five species of bass — largemouth, smallmouth, white, Kentucky, and rock. Upstream, the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, works to stock public waters in Kentucky. Fishing tournaments are a highlight of the River Festivus celebration held each August. 

Cumberland River

Coldwater fishing in the Cumberland River is even possible during the hot summer months. The Wolf Creek Dam created a change in the water temperatures of the lower Cumberland River because the waters that come into the river are pulled from deep under the surface of Lake Cumberland. Trout thrive in this cold tailwater and it’s a boon for fishermen. In fact, trophy brown trout swim in the Cumberland River, as do bountiful numbers of rainbow trout. Fishermen can catch walleye, sauger, and oversized striped bass. Because of the cold temperatures and strong currents, fishing guides are a great resource for a safe and successful fishing trip.

Dale Hollow Lake

The uppermost fingers of Dale Hollow Lake reach into Cumberland County, crossing over the Kentucky-Tennessee state lines. The world record smallmouth bass, at just over 11 pounds, was caught at Dale Hollow Lake over 60 years ago. Dale Hollow Lake continues to produce large, healthy fish thanks to conscientious fishermen and a healthy ecosystem. While smallmouth bass are the main draw, you can also find crappie, largemouth bass, spotted bass, bluegill, elusive muskie, and even brown trout. While the lake doesn’t support a reproducing brown trout population, wildlife officials stock it with browns that grow to significant sizes. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, with its lodge, boat ramp, and marina, is a convenient access point.

In Burkesville-Cumberland County, you can pick your passion for fun on the water: boating, kayaking/canoeing, tubing, paddle boarding, water skiing, swimming, or all of the above. The crystalline waters of Dale Hollow Lake also make it a prime spot for scuba diving. The massive 28,000-acre lake, with its 620 miles of heavily-wooded shoreline, has plenty of inlets, beaches, islands, coves, and creeks to explore, as well as open water. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park with its lodging, restaurant, rentals, and other amenities, is a great way to access the lake.

The Cumberland River runs right through the town of Burkesville, so it’s no surprise it has its very own celebration: River Festivus. Held every August, the festival presents a true snapshot of why the mighty Cumberland River is worthy of a spot on your travel bucket list. This multi-day event offers a chance to race your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard during the Mighty Cumberland River Run or to just relax during the Festivus Float. Fishing tournaments are also a highlight.

Burkeville is also on the Cumberland River Trail, a 76-mile blue water trail, which starts at the southernmost point of Russell County at the Wolf Creek Dam and finishes on the Cumberland and Monroe County line (close to the Tennessee state line). In Cumberland County, the Cumberland River runs from the northeast corner to the southwest corner, and the trailhead is located adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park. With all of its natural beauty, the Cumberland River requires respect for its strong currents and cold temperatures. Each mile of the 30-mile trail in Cumberland County is marked with signs indicating location and points of historical significance such as previous launch sites of the Cumberland River Queen Steamboat. 

Cumberland County is a destination perfect for exploring on foot, mountain bike, ATV, motorcycle, horseback, or watercraft. There is a trail for every mood and every mode of locomotion. With its status as a Certified Kentucky Trail Town, you know you not only get the great outdoors but great amenities too. Trails are well-maintained, and after an invigorating day, dining and lodging choices abound.

Burkesville and Alpine Hill Trail

This easy-to-difficult 6.5-mile walking, running, and biking trail, with level to steep terrain, connects the Central Business District with the Cumberland River Trail. It includes trails for both beginners and those training for marathon or cross country events. Along the way, trail users can take in all of the ambiance and amenities of Downtown Burkesville and access Alpine Hill.

Cumberland River Trail

Thirty miles of the 76-mile blue water Cumberland River Trail run through Cumberland County. This easy-to-moderate paddling trail starts at the southernmost point of Russell County at the Wolf Creek Dam and finishes on the Cumberland and Monroe County line (close to the Tennessee state line). Cumberland County has a trailhead launch spot located adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park. There are many natural wonders along the way, and mile markers placed along the 30 miles of the river in Cumberland County indicate locations and points of historical significance like former steamboat launch sites. 

Explore Cumberland County Trail

This 105-mile trail is a favorite of motorcycle enthusiasts. With a trailhead adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park, this trail loops through the scenic hills and hollers of Cumberland County, passing by the Cumberland River and Dale Hollow Lake, and over Alpine Hill. Comfortable lodging and food can be found along the way.

Cumberland County parks are well-maintained gems where many community activities and festivals take place. They are a great place to meet up with your neighbor for coffee or to enjoy a Chamber event.

Dr. Joseph Schickel Veterans Memorial Park

214 Upper River Street 
Burkesville, KY 42717

The City Park on the banks of the Cumberland River is the heartbeat of Burkesville. It’s where huge community-wide events are orchestrated like the July Fourth Celebration and River Festivus. Youth and adult sports are fielded here and there is an outdoor theater. Parking is ample.

Hilltop Community Park

445 Spencer Street
Burkesville, KY 42717

Hilltop Park is a perfect location for family reunions, social events, birthdays, and always has a grand Memorial Day Celebration. Features include a playground, basketball court, and restrooms.

Salem Park

45 Salem Park Road
Burkesville, KY 42717

Located on Hwy. 61 just north of Burkesville at the confluence of Little Renox Creek and Big Renox Creek, this park offers green spaces and a walking track.

Marrowbone Community Park

424 Park Road #2
Burkesville, KY 42717

This park offers playground equipment and a pavilion.

Marrowbone Roadside Park

10089 Glasgow Road
Burkesville, KY 42717 

This convenient park offers a serene spot for enjoying Marrowbone Creek.

5970 State Park Rd.
Burkesville, KY 42717

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park is a county treasure in the Kentucky State Park system. Even if you think you know state parks, you may have never seen a state park with these kinds of facilities. Amenities include:

• Lodging & Camping: The Mary Ray Oaken Lodge, with 60 guest rooms featuring balconies and patios, sits regally atop a bluff overlooking Dale Hollow Lake. Additionally, for a more rustic stay, there are nearly 150 campsites, a portion of which are set up for keeping horses.
• Island View Restaurant: Serving Kentucky fare and cuisine from around the world with spectacular lake views.
• Basketball: Courts are located at the campground entrance and in the picnic area. 
• Birding and Eagle Watching: A variety of species can be found throughout the park, however, the most important birding trail in the park is the Eagle Point Trail, with the Boom Ridge-Eagle Point Connector Trail.
• Boating: The park has a marina with 200+ slips, a boat ramp, a shop’s store, and a fuel dock.
• Caving: Explore the underground wonders of Cindy Cave with a wild cave tour led by a knowledgeable guide.
• Fishing: It’s year-round, and the variety of species is extensive. Trophy fish have been pulled out of Dale Hollow Lake.
• Golf: The Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park Golf Course, is a challenging renowned 18-hole course that plays along hilly terrain. There is also a pro shop and driving range.
• Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Horseback Riding: Over 15 miles of trails are designated as multi-purpose trails, open for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
• Miniature Golf: The park features a nautical-themed 18-hole mini-golf course with flowing water throughout and bridges that allow you to cross over the stream to sink your putt.
• Motorcycle Ride Trail: The ride starts right here to access the Cumberland Valley’s scenic roads and beautiful views.
• Picnicking and Playgrounds: Grills, shelters, tables, and play structures are found throughout the park.
• Swimming: Lodge guests enjoy an outdoor pool featuring a sloped entrance, separate wading pool, and wheelchair lift. Park visitors can enjoy a splash in the well-tended community pool inside the campground.

Marrowbone State Forest and WMA is located west of Burkesville, off KY 90 along Marrowbone Creek. Numerous foot trails and creeks run through the 1,983-acre tract of land positioned in Metcalfe and Cumberland counties.

Mud Camp Creek WMA, 572 acres of steep narrow ridges and valleys, play host to deer, squirrel, rabbit, quail, grouse, fox, and includes land along the Cumberland River which provides fishing opportunities. No vehicles are allowed on this land managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. It is located 5.5 miles west of Burkesville on KY 90, then left 4 miles on KY 100 to Wisdom RD, but best access to WMA is by boat or by permission of private landowners to cross their property adjacent to WMA.

Your horses are welcomed, and facilities are available, at some Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park campsites, Ranch-Camping at the Hidden Cave Ranch, and 4C Horse and Cattle Company campsites.

4C Horse and Cattle Company
650 Cedar Creek Road 
Burkesville, KY. 42717 
(270) 406-0020

The 4C Horse and Cattle Company encourages you to bring your horse to enjoy their miles of trails during your custom getaway that can be anything from romantic to working the ranch. You can glamp at their Cowboy Camp or rent one of their seven RV sites.

If you don’t have a horse, but crave an equestrian experience, Hidden Cave Ranch Curly Horses is the place to visit for a relaxing and unique day.

Hidden Cave Ranch Curly Horses 
877 Thrasher Road 
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 209-0907 
(270) 433-3225

Hidden Cave Ranch also has lodging on the premises so you can stay where you play. Riding lessons and guided trail rides are available on their rare hypoallergenic American Bashkir Curly horses.

Dale Hollow Lake State Park Golf Course
5970 State Park Road
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-7888

Golf Digest magazine consistently ranks Dale Hollow Lake State Park Golf Course as one of the top 10 courses in Kentucky. The course and practice facility was designed by nationally acclaimed architect, Brian Ault, and opened for play in 2003. The beautiful and challenging 18-hole course has five sets of tees to accommodate every level of player. There is also a practice range featuring three large zoysia tees and two target greens, as well as two practice greens and a practice bunker.

1 hour 20 minutes from Burkesville

66 Henderson Street
Stearns, KY 42647

Big South Fork Scenic Railway offers old-time train rides through the beautiful South Fork Recreation Area. A variety of themed tours are available, any of which are a fantastic way to see the beauty of Appalachia.

1.5 hours from Burkesville

7351 Highway 90
Corbin, KY 40701

Kentucky's “Niagra of the South” measures approximately 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit during a full moon to try to catch a glimpse of a moonbow. This extremely rare phenomenon, formed by the mist in the air from the falls, is one of only two naturally occurring moonbows in the world.

1 hour and 15 minutes from Burkesville

1 Visitor Center Parkway 
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Located in Mammoth Cave National Park, the world's longest cave system has over 400 miles of explored caverns. There is little doubt why it’s named “Mammoth.” Take a tour or explore the surrounding forest, either way, it makes for an enjoyable day.

20 minutes from Burkesville
1749 Seventy Six Falls Road 
Albany, KY 42602

A beautiful waterfall on Indian Creek that is around 44 feet high, depending on the level of Lake Cumberland. There are overlooks to view this incredible waterfall and a nice picnic area as well. Boating up near the plunge basin is possible.

30 minutes from Burkesville

50 Kendall Road 
Jamestown, KY 42629

Visitors here come face to face with the region’s underwater friends, explore karst terrain, see the inner workings of an active honey bee hive, and meet Dale, the lifelike animatronic fish biologist — all by stepping into the unique and exciting exhibit hall at the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery Visitor/Environmental Education Center. Visitors are also welcome to tour the working hatchery and fish the well-stocked creek. There’s also a theater, gift shop, picnic areas, wheelchair-accessible fishing ramp, and special events.

These folks have been on the waters of Cumberland County for years and will lend their expertise to make your fishing expedition rewarding and worry-free. If you aren't familiar with navigating the lower Cumberland River or Dale Hollow Lake, a guide will know the prime spots, allowing you to concentrate on not just fishing, but catching. An expert guide can also help you navigate the trickier currents that develop when the gates of Wolf Creek Dam are open.

KY/TN Trophy Fishing Guides

Dale Hollow Lake, Cumberland River, Lake Cumberland, and Barren River Lake.
Aaron Capshaw (270) 459-3193
Willie Capshaw (270) 459-3137
Finis Capshaw (270) 459-3251
www.facebook.com/KyTntrophyfishing/ 

Rainbow Guide Service: Captain John Rush

Trout and Striper on the Cumberland River; Smallmouth on Dale Hollow Lake.
689 Otter Creek Road
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-7674
www.rainbowguideserviceinc.com

StriperFun Guide Service: Captain Jim Durham

Striper on Lake Cumberland and The Cumberland River; U.S. Coast Guard-licensed.
(931) 403-2501
https://striperfun.com/ 

Bobby Gentry's Guide Service

Strictly dedicated to guiding on Dale Hollow Lake.
795 Gentry Circle
Mt. Herman, KY 42157
(270) 427-0419
www.bobbygentry.com

Smith Guide Service

Dale Hollow Lake: spring, summer (night fishing available), fall, and winter.
6644 Mud Camp Road/ P. O. Box 344
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 459-1580
patsmith024@hotmail.com
www.fishingdalehollowlake.com/ 

Whether you need a slip for your own boat or are looking for a houseboat, fishing boat, or ski boat to rent, the marinas in Cumberland County have you covered. These resorts also have comfortable lodging options.

Hendricks Creek Resort

Offering rental houseboats, cottages, a full-service marina, a ship’s store, and a service center.  
945 Hendricks Creek Resort
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-7172 
(888) 321-4000
Fax: (270) 433-5692
Email: info@hendrickscreekresort.com 
Website: www.hendrickscreekresort.com

Sulphur Creek Resort

Lodging, camping, and boating.
3622 Sulphur Creek Road
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-7272
Email: scr@duo-county.com 
Website: www.sulphurcreek.com 

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Lodging, camping, and nearly 200 slips with state-of-the-art facilities including a ship's store and fuel dock. Recreational boats, as well as fishing boats, are welcome and may be rented by the day. 
5970 State Park Road
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-6600
Email: jennyb.moon@ky.gov 
Website: https://parks.ky.gov/burkesville/parks/resort/dale-hollow-lake-state-resort-park

Fun on the water is what makes Cumberland County special, but safety must always be kept in mind. Never boat alone, always inform family or friends about your location, and respect the strong currents and cold temperatures of the Cumberland River.

Cumberland River Ramps

Burkesville City Ramp
Paved ramp with parking and no fee in Cumberland County.
Location: KY 90/KY 61 in Burkesville off Square at the end of Upper River Street
Burkesville, KY 42717

Cloyds Landing

Paved ramp with parking and no fee in Cumberland County.
Location: KY 61 south of Burkesville; right on KY 953; right on KY 1424
Burkesville, KY 42717

Traces on the Cumberland

Paved ramp with parking and fee in Cumberland County.
Location: KY 61 south of Burkesville 3 miles
Burkesville, KY 42602

Helms Landing

Paved ramp with no fee in Russell County.
Location: US 127 south of Jamestown; left on KY 55; left on Hwy 1058; left on KY 379; left at "T" to river
Jamestown, KY 42629

Little Indian Creek Access

Carry-down only with no fee in Russell County.
Location: US 127 south of Jamestown; right on road to fish hatchery just before Wolf Creek Dam; right on the first gravel road at bottom of the hill.
Jamestown, KY 42629

Rockhouse (Creelsboro Arch)

Carry-down only with no fee in Russell County.
Location: US 127 south of Jamestown; right on Hwy 55; left on Hwy 1058; left on KY 379 (6 miles); left on Hwy 771
Jamestown, KY 42629

Winfreys Ferry

Rough ramp (4-WD recommended) and no fee in Russell County, 
Location: US 127 south of Jamestown; right on Hwy 55; left on Hwy 1058;
left on Hwy 379; right on Winfreys Ferry Road; (6 miles)
Jamestown, KY 42629

Tearcoat Creek Access

Carry-down only with no fee in Clinton County.
Location: US 127 north of Albany; right on Hwy 3063 to river
Albany, KY 42602

Dale Hollow Lake Ramps

Dale Hollow Lake Resort Park
Concrete launching ramp with a gradual slope; two lots for parking trailers.
5970 State Park Rd.
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-6600
Email: jennyb.moon@ky.gov 
Website: https://parks.ky.gov/burkesville/parks/resort/dale-hollow-lake-state-resort-park 

Sulphur Creek Resort

Two concrete launching ramps with parking.
3622 Sulphur Creek Road 
Burkesville KY 42717
(270) 433-7272
Website: http://www.sulphurcreek.com/

Hendricks Creek Resort

Paved ramp with courtesy dock and paved parking.
945 Hendricks Creek Road
Burkesville, KY 42717
(270) 433-7172
Website: http://www.hendrickscreekresort.com/

Cumberland County is a “wet” county amongst “dry” ones allowing distilleries and wineries to find a home here. Kentucky is famous for its Bourbon Trail, and now Burkesville has a premium beverage establishment of its own: Southern Kentucky Distillery. SKD serves up their own premium Kentucky bourbon, moonshine, and vodka in their well-appointed tasting room.

Up the Creek Winery in Possum Hollow in the heart of Cumberland County grows Kentucky Proud grapes and brambles. They manage over 1,200 wine grapevines and 700 trellised blackberry and red raspberry bushes. Their grape varietals include Golden Muscat (American variety), Chambourcin, Seyval Blanc, Vignoles, and Marquette (hybrid varieties). Call them today to reserve their tasting room.

The Burkesville Farmers Market is open May through September every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon. Located at 204 S. Main Street, one block south of Courthouse Square, the open-air market features locally produced vegetables, eggs, meats, berries, artisan bread, baked goods, and more. There’s even a hot breakfast.