FRANKFORT, Ky. — As part of an ongoing reconstruction project at John James Audubon State Park, lake levels at the park will be lowered until the project is completed. The reconstruction project is a collaborative effort between Kentucky State Parks and the Kentucky Division of Water and Dam Safety designed to bring the structure into compliance with the commonwealth’s current dam safety regulations.
Phase Two of the $4.5 million project will see construction of a new service spillway and downstream buttress. The work also includes converting the existing spillway conduit to a new low-level drawdown structure. The lake will remain at a lower level until the project is completed in late summer or early fall.
For the safety of park guests, areas around the lake will be restricted from the general public. Fishing and boating in these areas will not be allowed. The campground at John James Audubon State Park will also remain closed as construction continues.
John James Audubon is one of 45 Kentucky state parks that offer a variety of outdoor recreation activities that Kentuckians can continue to enjoy while engaging in social distancing. Park visitors have access to a number of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking and biking, as well as access to wetlands.
The park remains open to the public. The museum and nature center are open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CDT.
Due to the state’s ongoing battle with COVID-19, park guests are required to follow all public health safety guidelines including Red Zone Reduction Recommendations, face-covering requirements and social distancing.
While visiting park grounds, guests should adhere to the following:
- Wear a mask or facial covering;
- Do not use parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms;
- Maintain safe social distancing at least 6 feet;
- Do not congregate in groups;
- Avoid games that require close contact; and
- Move to a different location to avoid crowds.
For more information about Kentucky State Parks or to make a reservation, visit parks.ky.gov.
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To find a place to fish or boat, visit fw.ky.gov.
Travelers looking for the perfect Kentucky “safe-cation” can discover the Bluegrass State by downloading the Kentucky Official Visitor’s Guide.