Looking into maybe a four or five day vacation with the wife and kids at Lake Barkley, Kentucky. I've read a few articles on the net and everything sounds pretty decent. Anyone have any suggestions? Places to stay, things to do, best time of year, etc...

Thanks for any info!  Dan 

Lake Barkley State Park has a restaurant and a playground.  There are cabins or rooms.  Lots of wildlife roaming around (watch out for the deer, they are everywhere).  Of course there is a boat ramp too with good fishing.

Not a lot in the way of shopping unless you drive to Paducah, Clarksville (Tn) or Nashville. 

If you're coming in summer, the kids will love Venture River.

Thanks for the reply Deb. I read a little about the Venture River online. Sounds like a good time.

This is an excellent site to get info: http://www.explorekentuckylake.com/

and if your planning on doing some fishing check out what Dave Stewart has to say.