Long before Buckhorn Lake was created and the state park established in 1964, a small community flourished for many generations here, along the middle fork of the Kentucky River.
Early records refer to this area as the Bowling District, founded by Reverend Jesse Boling, his wife Mary Pennington, Reverend Duff and 50 other families. They were led to this remote area under the guidance of Daniel Boone. By the late 1800's Bowlingtown was a thriving community of hundreds. There was a post office, school, churches, grocery, saw mill, blacksmith and the Frontier Nursing Service. Local officials included a sheriff, magistrate, justice of the peace, and tax commissioner. The citizens were primarily farmers and coal miners. They were known to be patriotic, honest, kind, and well-educated people.
In 1960, when the construction of Buckhorn Lake began, Bowlingtown had to be abandoned and families relocated. Family graves (873) were re-interred to Buckhorn Cemetery. All were sad to leave their homeland of seven generations. so Where you see water was once The town called Bowlingtown in KY.

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Lodges in Owsley County

Charming 4-bedroom with Mtn. Views, WIFI, & Cold Plunge Tub in Pine Ridge, Ky

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Top Owsley County Hotel Reviews

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

10/10 Excellent

"Great property for summer. Going in November we missed out on a lot of benefits it has to offer. Room was clean, bed comfy. Property could use a little updating of carpet in halls and elevator but it is a state park and has a lot to offer. Very close to what we needed. Staff super friendly and great suggestions in the area. We are already looking to return during summer months! "