Kentucky has some of the most enchanting spots to relax in the U.S. Some you'll find at well-traveled Kentucky State Parks; others are hidden gems you might have to search a bit to find. Whatever you're searching for, you're sure to find it right here in the Bluegrass State! Here are 11 hidden parks and places in Kentucky that will completely enchant you.

1. Blue Licks Battlefield

This campground, park, and lodge with a restaurant are located at 10299 Mayesville Road in Carlisle. It is the site of the 1782 Kentucky militia defeat via British and Native American troops, so the area is alive with history. The thought that a battle of such brutality could take place here is truly surprising given the gorgeous atmosphere. The food at the lodge is quite delicious if you don’t feel like packing a meal. You're sure to be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful scenery Bluegrass Battlefield.

2. The Chain Rock at Pine Mountain

Located off 1050 State Park Road, this beautiful portion of Kentucky can compel you to stay for days. The bountiful Pine trees are fragrant and the trails allow you to disappear from society for a while and commune with nature. There are an abundance of places to visit in the forest. Each one can be magical to an individual, so pick your own destination and absorb the beauty. Come and take the scenic hike to this wondrous place!

3. Caspian Terns and Lake Barkley Lodge

Lake Barkley is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. The resort is a great place to stay while in the area. This serene part of our beautiful Kentucky gives visitors all the modern conveniences in the middle of nature. This is a perfect place to get away for a few days. Reservations can be made at 270-924-1131.

4. Carter Caves

Though not as popular as Mammoth Cave, Carter Caves is just as incredible to visit. Cruise under the earth in an underground river and you will see seemingly magical surroundings. The entire area is rich in nature and wildlife, but the underground river is really something special. Come and take one of the amazing hikes at Carter Caves State Park!

5. Buckhorn Lake

Buckhorn has some fantastic fishing and beautiful nature trails ready to be explored. During the summer, there's perhaps no better place to be in Kentucky, than Buckhorn Lake. Come and enjoy a swim in its cool, blue waters!

6. Cedar Pond Pavilion at Bernheim Forest

Bernheim Forest is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are some gorgeous trails, bridges and lakes in Bernheim, along with a wondrous arboretum. Bernheim is a great place to fish, take nature walks and just absorb your surroundings. The Cedar Pond Pavilion is a wonderful, hidden little spot, that's a great place to go with your thoughts (or, hide from the benevolent giants who call Bernheim home!).

7. Doe Run Lake

One of Kentucky's most beautiful hidden parks, Doe Run Lake is located at 501 Bullock Pen Road in Covington. While well-known to locals, not many outside of Covington know about Doe Run Lake; however, it is precisely this lack of publicity that makes it the perfect area to enjoy some peace and quiet. The lake has plenty of fish and the surrounding trees provide a blanket of foliage to hike under and around. If you are looking for something a little off the beaten path, Doe Run is nice and quiet.

8. Lost River Cave

One of the most under-the-radar hidden places in Kentucky, Lost River Cave has an underwater river tour that is a bucket list must. On the tour, you'll discover an enchanting underground world of unique formations and clear water. During the spring months, there is a beautiful butterfly garden, but there are hiking trails all year round that are available for adventure-seekers.

9. Swift Camp Creek Overlook at Red River Gorge

The Swift Camp Creek Overlook at Red River Gorge is the equivalent of a Kentucky mic drop, as it's easily one of the most spectacular nature scenes you'll ever behold. The views -- especially if there's a little fog in the air on a crisp, autumn morning, will render you utterly speechless. You can access this overlook via the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.

10. Green River Bluffs at Mammoth Cave

Though this cave system is renowned around the world, there are a lot of places to explore here. The park is massive -- not just the cave -- and it is brimming with nature, wildlife, and areas of extreme beauty. Something that might surprise you are the number of above-ground overlooks and wonders at Mammoth Cave, including the Green River Bluff. This overlook offers visitors a gorgeous view all year-round, with even winter providing breathtaking views.

11. Kentucky Castle

Once known as Martin Castle, this enchanting medieval castle sitting at 230 Pisgah Pike in Versailles is now a veritable Bluegrass State destination. The Kentucky Castle is a premier boutique hotel, world-class restaurant, renowned spa, and sought-after event venue that offers a wide range of experiences throughout the year. From rooftop workout classes to themed dinners, the Kentucky Castle is now the king of creative events and experiences on its property, which, it should be noted, is an incredibly beautiful slice of the Bluegrass State.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or just some time alone in nature, each one of these hidden parks in Kentucky offers a unique and memorable experience. Which one would you like to spend the weekend at? Or, what is your favorite place to relax in Kentucky?

For more beautiful places in the Bluegrass State, be sure to check out these relaxing places.