There are 45 state parks in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, but did you know there are 6 state parks within an hour's drive of Lexington?

Let’s take a short trip down some Kentucky backroads to unplug + unwind.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, 2135 Natural Bridge Rd., Slade | This popular state park is worth visiting over and over again because of its sweeping vistas. If you’ve already explored the famous natural bridge, choose a new path to get you to the top.

Pro tip: Miguel’s is a popular pizza spot for both hikers and climbers, but beat the crowds by trying out the newest restaurant to open in the area — Red Point BBQ.

Fort Boonesborough State Park, 4375 Boonesboro Rd. | Discover the history of Kentucky’s 2nd settlement, established by Daniel Boone in 1775. The fort has been reconstructed as a working fort, complete with cabins + 18th-century craft demonstrations. Modern amenities include a public pool, mini-golf, and a campground.

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, 3380 Beaver Rd., Union | Walk among the giants — both living and extinct. Short family-friendly trails lead to a bison herd + the museum gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of the giant mammals that used to roam the Kentucky landscape.

Lincoln Homestead State Park, 5079 Lincoln Park Rd., Springfield | Immerse yourself in rugged frontier life while exploring the original home of Abraham Lincoln’s mother, 18th-century cabin replicas, and a blacksmith shop.

Old Fort Harrod State Park, 100 S. College St., Harrodsburg | Great for a summer trip, but also fitting for Halloween — this park showcases the oldest cemetery in Kentucky. A full-scale replica of the 1774 fort is also on display.

Taylorsville Lake State Park, 1320 Park Rd, Mt Eden | An angler’s paradice, this state park boasts a ~3,000-acre lake with easy access to gas pumps, bait shops, and a marina store that offers a full service deli. The 24-mile multi-use trail system is also great for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, 3380 Beaver Rd., Union | Walk among the giants — both living and extinct. Short family-friendly trails lead to a bison herd + the museum gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of the giant mammals that used to roam the Kentucky landscape.

Bonus:

Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr., Olive Hill | This park is a bit further — a 90-minute drive — but worth it. This area of Kentucky has the highest concentration of caves in Kentucky + the guided tours of Cascade Cave and X-Cave make for a great, safe subterranean adventure. Other activities include gem mining, mini-golf, canoeing, and camping.