Stewart Nelson Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stewart Nelson Park, located in the state of Kentucky, is a beautiful and popular destination for visitors of all ages.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This expansive park offers various attractions and recreational activities that make it a must-visit place in the state.

One of the top reasons to visit Stewart Nelson Park is its stunning natural beauty. The park encompasses 28 acres and features lush green landscapes, serene walking trails, and picturesque views of nature. It is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Within the park, there are several points of interest that are worth exploring. The focal point of Stewart Nelson Park is the large lake, which provides visitors the opportunity for fishing and boating. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the wide variety of fish species inhabiting the lake, including bass, catfish, and crappie. Boat rentals are available, allowing visitors to explore the lake's tranquil waters and soak in the scenic surroundings.

For those looking to engage in recreational activities, the park offers tennis and volleyball courts, playgrounds for children, and open spaces for picnicking and barbecue gatherings. Visitors can also make use of the park's basketball courts and baseball fields for some friendly competition.

Interesting facts about Stewart Nelson Park include its historical significance. The park is named after a local family who donated the land to the city of Paducah for public use. It has since become a beloved community space and a hub for outdoor recreation.

The best time of year to visit Stewart Nelson Park largely depends on personal preferences. Spring and fall are generally considered the most pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage. During summer, the park's amenities are particularly in demand, as visitors can take advantage of the lake for water activities and enjoy outdoor sports and events. In winter, the park's serene atmosphere and occasional snowfall offer a unique and peaceful experience for those seeking a quiet getaway.

To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided about Stewart Nelson Park by consulting multiple independent sources, such as official park websites, local tourism websites, and visitor reviews.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks