Big Twigs at Lake Malone

Explore Kentucky at Lake Malone State Park and the Big Twigs!

Big Twigs at Lake Malone

The Big Twigs attraction is a family of wood giants and worth the visit.

Visit the Big Twigs at Lake Malone!

We recently took a trip down to Lake Malone State Park in Dunmor, Kentucky, just west of Bowling Green. Our goal was to visit the “Big Twigs” attraction – a family of 14-foot wood giants that now inhabit the park: “Happy Malone” is at his campsite, “Bobber Malone” is right by the lake, and “Oakley Malone” is at the end of the Laurel Trail.

 


We parked at the lower pavilion, right in front of “Oakley Malone.” They are easy to spot, if you can’t tell from the photos! From there you can go left, toward the water and visit with “Bobber Malone” or right, up the hill toward “Happy Malone.” 

Big Twigs at Lake Malone

Or you can take the long way to “Happy,” taking the 2.25 mile trail down by the water and rock ledges over two miles to visit “Happy.” The kids will get a real kick out of these. They are so expressive and have great details to them. Prepare to walk!

Big Twigs at Lake Malone The Big Twigs at Lake Malone are spread out. We took the Laurel hiking trail over two miles to get to the third Twig. Be prepared to get your steps in and wear comfortable shoes. Snacks and water are always a good idea when hiking with kids. However, if you don’t want to hike, you could drive over to the RV camping parking lot for a much shorter walk.
Big Twigs at Lake Malone
This is all at a state park so there are many other things to do while you are there. You could stay there and go camping if you want to make a weekend out of it. While at Lake Malone State Park, you can make it an overnight adventure, camping at one of their 34 primitive sites or 24 RV sites.

We enjoyed looking at “caves” along the rocks, flowers, trees, and the lake all on our hike to “Happy.” It’s an adventure around the park exploring to see all of the Big Twigs at Lake Malone. We stopped to play on the playground, swing on the swings, and watch the birds and animals. Pack some lunch and find place to picnic. 

On our way out of Lake Malone State Park, we stopped by the beach and boat docks. It’s not a huge beach and swimming area, but I can definitely see my kids having a blast there swimming and watching the fishing boats speed by making waves. (There are many swimming lakes in the range of a day trip from Louisville). While they weren’t open yet during our visit, we will be back to enjoy it in hot weather soon! It’s a good thing to put on your summer bucket list. 

We also stopped by the man-made waterfall at the levee. We love finding waterfalls all over the state. This spot is great for fishing, exploring, and taking pictures. If you make the trip to see the Big Twigs at Lake Malone, you know there are other sites to explore at the park. 
Big Twigs at Lake Malone
Lake Malone State Park is a little over two hours from Louisville. You may want to break up the drive by visiting Kentucky’s other resident giants at Bernheim Forest. Or feel free to stop by Elizabethtown to break up your trip. It’s directly on the way to and from Dunmore and has some great things to see and do including a wonderful new playground!

We know that Louisville families love to explore nearby cities, parks, and attractions. Visit our list of travel options to see what’s doable nearby. 

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