John James Audubon State Park is located just south of the Ohio river in western Kentucky.
The park preserves the peaceful woods where John James Audubon walked as he studied the subjects of his paintings.
This traditionally designed course is located in a park. The course was cut out of the woods and has heavily tree-lined fairways. The signature hole is #1, a 331-yard, par 4, which sits atop the second-highest hill in Henderson County.
Birding
In winter the park plays host to seven woodpecker species, waterfowl, sparrows, and mixed flocks. Occasionally buteos, accipiters, and owls can be seen or heard. During spring, summer, and fall, warblers and other neotropical migrants can be seen. Audubon State Park co-hosts the Ohio Valley Birding Festival and is perfect for all bird watching and activity levels. From late winter through summer, don’t miss the Bald Eagles and Great Blue Heron raising their young north of the park on Stratman Road. Wilderness Lake Trail is an excellent trail for woodpeckers, warblers and waterfowl. The Recreation Lake shoreline provides desirable edge space for fishing species like Great Blue Heron, Green Heron and Belted Kingfishers. Throughout the park, you may see numerous bluebird nest boxes. These are perfect photo opportunities for Eastern Bluebirds, Carolina Wrens, Carolina Chickadees, and occasionally Tree Swallows and Prothonotary Warblers. During the spring and summer, these nesting boxes are hotspots for viewing courtship and nesting activities.
Boating
The park offers pedal boats, canoes, fishing boats, and kayaks available for rent ($) at the Recreation Lake boat dock Memorial Day through Labor Day. CLOSED: Monday & Tuesday
Camping
Surround yourself with unspoiled, natural beauty in the 69-site campground. A central service building has showers and rest rooms. Picnic tables, grills and a playground are also available in the camping area. Pets are allowed if restrained. Wifi available. Call for winter closing information. Closed December 1 – March 15.
Fishing
Cast away your cares at Audubon! The fishermen in your family can cast for largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish from the banks of the 28-acre lake. Ask the recreation staff where you can check out free fishing gear.
Golf
Fore! On the nine-hole golf course you can enjoy beautiful scenery as well as a challenging game. A pro shop with rental clubs, riding carts, and pull carts, caters to the golfer’s every need. Open year round, weather permitting.
Hiking
Whether you're out for a leisurely stroll or really want to work up a sweat, you're sure to find the 6.5 miles of trails at Audubon State Park to your liking. Trails wind through the nature preserve with variations in difficulty and length, including 2.7 miles of back-country hiking. The Eagle Glen Pet Trail is a one-mile trail where dogs on leashes are allowed with their owners.
Museum
The museum interprets Audubon’s life through his art and personal memorabilia, framed within a timeline of world events. Enjoy year-round exhibits and displays. Tours and presentations can be arranged through our Museum Curator.
Nature Center
The Audubon Nature Center comprises three areas to explore: A Wildlife Observation Room gives a tree-high glimpse into the surrounding woodlands and allows for close up observation of birds dining at the feeders. Hands-on exhibits help advance the visitor’s knowledge of birds. The Audubon Theater provides a state-of-the-art venue for viewing our introductory film which explains the park’s origin and shares fascinating insights into John James Audubon’s life. The Discovery and Learning Center becomes the perfect place for visitors to discover details about native wildlife and habitats. Many environmental education and art programs are conducted here by our park naturalist and art educator. Live program animals are on display.
Challenge Course may be reserved for groups.
Picnicking
Four picnic shelters (one with restrooms), offer tables, grills and a playground for the perfect family outing. Shelters may be reserved up to one year in advance by calling 270-826-2247.
Playgrounds
Four playgrounds located at the Sycamore, Lakeview, Cardinal, and Campground shelters. Campground playground and shelter closes when the campground closes for season.
Tennis
Single court located by the picnic shelter open year-round.
