Beech Bend Park provides unique destination for racers and fans • By Van Abernethy

In addition to its legendary NHRA-sanctioned quarter-mile dragstrip , the neighboring amusement park offers everything from roller coasters to bumper cars to the Splash Lagoon Water Park . The sprawling 379 acres of rolling Kentucky hills is shaded by numerous beech trees , while the Barren River snakes its way through the property , and even features a campground that contains 400 camping spots , including full electrical hookup , as well as primitive tent camping along the river .

Amazingly , Beech Bend Park dates back to 1898 , when it offered just two attractions to the community : A swimming hole in the Barren River , and pony rides . The facility has seen many changes over the last 125 years , as the original swimming hole in the river was replaced by a large swimming pool , while other attractions that came and went include a roller-skating rink , dance hall , and bowling alley to name a few .

The original dragstrip at Beech Bend dates back to the 1950s and was dirt , eventually being repositioned within the park and paved . The late Dallas Jones is credited with the revitalization of the dragstrip ( as well as the amusement park ), which was not even in operation when he bought the dragstrip in 1984 .

The entire facility is operated by Jones ’ heirs , including his widow , Alfreda Jones , and a host of other family members . Jones ’ grandson , Broc Porter , manages the dragstrip and has for years , with an involvement that dates back multiple decades . “ I basically grew up here at the track ,” Broc says . “ Between Music City , the amusement park , and the dragstrip , it ’ s a family affair .”

The dragstrip ’ s schedule in 2023 is as robust

PHOTOGRAPHS BY VAN ABERNETHY , BEECH BEND PARK

Track manager Broc Porter

July / August 2023 DragIllustrated . com | Drag Illustrated | 85