Things for Kids to Do and See
1. Swimming
Our lake and waterways offer lots of opportunites for swimming and other forms of water recreation.
2. The Cordell Hull Birthplace State Historic Park
This area is rich in state parks that offer a wide array of outdoor possibilities, along with a few enjoyed indoors. Cordell Hull Birthplace State Historic Park boasts a hiking trail, cave, picnic tables AND a museum that houses Cordell Hull’s Nobel Peace Prize as well as a multitude of other mementos and stories of his life and service to the world during his time as secretary of state for President Roosevelt. The park offers a variety of programs throughout the year suitable for all ages – sometimes specially created workshops and programs for the children. Stop by and learn more about “The Father of the United Nations” who came from such a humble beginning.
3. The public library
While in Byrdstown, be sure to check out the public library. We may be small, but our library is awesome! There is something there for any age. Want to rent movies? The Pickett County Library has you covered! They have a good selection.
4. Public parks
We have a park for the children to play in across from the First Christian Church, located at 310 N. Main St. The Byrdstown Activities Park offers a walking trail, pavilion, restrooms (during events) and picnic tables.
5. The restored Gulf Museum
At the edge of the park is the restored Gulf Station Museum. It is a veritable time capsule from days gone by. The museum is open during Town Hall business hours and can serve as a photo op.
6. Board games and puzzles
Board games and jigsaw puzzles are yet another rainy-day option. You can find them at the local marinas and a few of the merchants.
7. The history of WWI Hero Sgt. Alvin C. York
WWI Hero Sgt. Alvin C. York was from nearby Pall Mall, Tennessee, where the State of Tennessee has established a park in his honor. The picturesque grounds and facilities share with visitors a lot about what life was like during the early 1900s in the peaceful Wolf River valley. They love to share Sgt. York’s accomplishments and prized possessions with the public. There is a playground on site, picnic shelters and much more. The gristmill no longer operates due to a flood that washed the wheel away years ago. The gristmill always fascinates the visitors by its mere existence and the artifacts on display. There is so much there and at the homeplace that you will surely find interesting. They have displays from WWI-era warfare, farming and gardening exhibits, and more to explore.
8. Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps State Park
The Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps State Park was created through a project from the Great Depression era. They have a museum dedicated to the effort, along with several gorgeous trails, camping facilities, activities and more. Learn more on their website. It’s just a short drive from Byrdstown, Tennessee, and Dale Hollow Lake. Pickett State Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, with programs scheduled throughout the year to help visitors get the most out of the experience.
9. Great BIG adventures at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
The Big South Fork has been described as the “Grand Canyon of the East” and is second only to the Smoky Mountains in variety of flora and fauna. It’s just another short drive from Dale Hollow Lake and worth a day trip for sure if you love the great outdoors, scenic overlooks, fascinating rock formations and miles of trails – including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and 172 miles of designated wagon roads. They also allow hunting in season, paddling opportunities, rock climbing and swimming in the vast wilderness terrain. Plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife to observe in their home space.
10. Standing Stone State Park
Standing Stone State Park is located to the southwest of Byrdstown and offers a plethora of opportunities to explore. Several trails, activities, a marble festival and more.
11. The Twin Lakes Family Wellness Center
The Twin Lakes Family Wellness Center, located in nearby Albany, Kentucky, offers indoor swimming, a gym, physical fitness equipment and many more activities as a part of their membership plan.