Autumn Day-tripping: General Butler State Resort Park

Photos and story by Mary Casey-Sturk

General Butler State Resort Park in Carrollton, Kentucky has something for everybody and makes for an easy getaway or day trip. Within the park is a historic home, a lake, a lodge, outdoor sports, birding, hiking and a variety of naturalist programs.

Bird watchers might spy Wood Ducks, Great Blue Herons, American Red-Winged Blackbirds, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and Northern Mockingbirds, depending on the season. Wildlife is in abundance here, you’ll want to stay alert for deer, fox, and squirrels. Late summer and autumn bring an increase in migratory birds, and as the trees take on their autumnal tones, the hills are awash in hues of red and gold.

Located along I-71 about one hour from Fort Thomas, the Park has the option of staying at the Butler Lodge. Featuring updated and some pet-friendly rooms, events and entertainment. Dining at the Two Rivers Restaurant (named for the nearby Ohio and Kentucky Rivers) offers up a buffet or tuck into any number of Kentucky favorites including catfish, Kentucky Hot Brown, and Kentucky Country Ham. Due to ongoing construction, dining is currently located at the nearby conference center.

The Park has many features that were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Created in 1933 as part of the Federal Unemployment Relief Act signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, men were hired for $30 a month (much of which was sent home to their families) and trained to create projects, including parks. Here you can find their work as the CCC built the overlook, dam, several stone buildings and more.

Accommodation Options

The Butler Lodge features a large common area with a fireplace and wooded view. Comfortable overstuffed sofas invite you to sit and read, play a board game, and catch up with family and friends. There is also a swimming pool (outdoor, seasonal) and a gift shop. Camping and cottages are available as well. The cottages have everything you need for a weekend or longer and come in a variety of sizes, making it easy for a couple or a family to have a fun getaway. Grocery stores are nearby for stocking up on supplies in advance and there are several eateries in the area.

During Halloween, the campground goes all out with decorations and costume contests.

Heading outside, explore the lake via canoe or pedal boat rental, play a round of mini-golf, take a hike, bike, play disc golf, picnic and visit the Butler-Turpin Historic House. Some activities are seasonal, so check ahead. Catching the sunset over the Ohio River from the Overlook, that’s year-round!

Historic House Shares Stories

The Butler-Turpin State Historic House (1859) is a Greek Revival treasure with two floors to tour. Once home to several generations of the Butler and Turpin family, today it shares their history with displays of military and family memorabilia. There are objects dating back to the War of 1812 when General William Orlando Butler aided Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans. Later, Butler served in several political offices, and went on to run for Vice-President.   During warm weather months and on select weekends, you can take a tour of the home (small fee) and learn more about this family or attend a concert on the grounds. Nearby, walk to the family cemetery.

Haunted? You decide. Follow the park’s Facebook page for Ghost Tour dates this fall.

Around the Area

Carrollton is a historic Ohio River town and very close to the park.  You can visit local shops and restaurants and see historic buildings including the Masterson House (believed to be the first two-story brick house to be built between Louisville and Cincinnati), Carroll County Courthouse, and the Old Stone Jail (another haunted location?). A stop at Point Park offers great views and there is also the River Walk.

Day-trippers might opt to enjoy a picnic at one of the many tables near the front of the park.  From here, you can explore the trail along the lake or reflect at the Kentucky Veterans Memorial.

For an overnight, a long weekend or a day trip. This historic park has much to offer!

General Butler State Resort Park

1608 Hwy. 227

Carrollton, KY 41008

502-732-4384