Jenny Wiley State Resort Park

The setting is beautiful, and the staff were really friendly. I was there for a conference during the week. A few things went wrong, but the small issues were fixed. Some rooms need updating. It also seems this state park gets less funding than some of the others I've visited.

May Lodge is lovely, and the lake is fantastic. I'd forgotten how beautiful the place is since I last visited years ago, and I don't think I appreciated the nature as much then. There's a lot here, from trails and a big playground to a wide range of activities, so there's no way to cover it all in one post. It seems like a great place for kids and adults alike. The campground has showers, restrooms, electric hookups, and water, and takes both RVs and tents. You have to reserve online now, instead of just turning up for a spot like people used to. Sometimes there's live music and bands, country line dancing, square dancing, fireworks, and other activities, especially on holidays like the 4th of July. There's even a camping area you can only reach by boat, which is pretty neat. You can ride bikes, play basketball, volleyball, or tennis, try horse shoes, picnic at the tables or shelters, grill, fish in the lake or by the dam, or rent canoes, paddle boats, and pontoons. They also have jet skiing, cottages to rent, and lodging. I remember coming as a kid to see the live plays, including "Anne" and "The Sound of Music." Pets are allowed inside and outside, though I think the limit is 2. I only stopped to look around a little at the campground and May Lodge. The lodge isn't very accessible for disabled people, and there are a few steps to climb to get inside. I took a few pictures of the grounds and lodge, but had other things on my agenda and wish I'd taken more. I'll try to next time. If you love being outdoors or want to give it a try, I think this is a great place to go.

Lake Dewey and the mountains make for amazing scenery. The May center has a really good buffet, too. Head to Prestonsburg to visit the mountain art center. Even the hairpin turns on the drive make the trip worthwhile.

Set in the heart of Appalachian’s, the state park covers 2,871 acres for camping, hiking, birding, and boating, and has a beautiful resort lodge. The resort is named after Jenny Wiley, a pioneer woman born in PA. Native Americans captured her, and she witnessed the murder of her young brother and 4 Children. She was also pregnant, and after the baby was born, that child was murdered too because it slowed down the journey.