Pine Mountain State Resort Park
Kentucky’s First State Park — Chained Rock, CCC Lodge & Appalachian Trails
Pine Mountain State Resort Park holds the distinction of being Kentucky’s first state park, established in 1924 in the heart of Appalachian coal country near Pineville. Set within 1,500 acres of the Kentucky Ridge State Forest, the park is famed for the legendary Chained Rock — a massive boulder literally chained to a cliff face above the town — and a stunning CCC-built lodge of stone and timber overlooking mountain ridges that stretch to the horizon.
Chained Rock
The park’s iconic attraction is a giant rock formation chained to the cliff in 1933. Local legend held that the boulder threatened to roll down onto Pineville below. A half-mile moderate trail leads to the rock, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Pineville, the historic Wilderness Road corridor, and on clear days, Cumberland Mountain 12 miles south.
Hiking
- 12 miles of self-guided trails through Appalachian forest
- Honeymoon Falls Trail: A 25-foot waterfall hidden in a fern-draped hollow
- Laurel Cove Trail: Winds through dense mountain laurel (spectacular May blooms)
- Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail: A long-distance trail connecting to the Great Eastern Trail passes near the park
Lodge, Cabins & Dining
- Herndon J. Evans Lodge (30 rooms): CCC-built stone and timber lodge with mountain-view balconies, restaurant, and pool
- 11 cottages & 9 log cabins: Some with fireplaces (firewood provided). Fully equipped kitchens.
- Lodge restaurant: Serves classic Appalachian-influenced Kentucky cuisine with mountain views
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: Spring for mountain laurel blooms; fall for Appalachian foliage; summer for swimming and full resort amenities.
- Combine With: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is just 30 minutes away.
- Pets: Welcome in designated lodge rooms and outdoor areas.
Things to Do
Kentucky “resort parks” feature Bluegrass hills and Appalachian foothills. Activities include boating and bass fishing on massive lakes, hiking forested trails, golfing championship courses, horseback riding, and exploring cave networks and Civil War sites.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal. Summer is hot and humid but great for lakes. Winter is quiet, with resort park lodges offering peaceful off-season getaways at discount rates.
Visitor Tips
Kentucky parks have no entrance fee. Famous for 17 “Resort Parks” with full-service lodges, restaurants, and 18-hole golf courses. Book well in advance for summer and fall weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kentucky state parks charge an entrance fee?
No, Kentucky state parks do not charge a general entrance fee for day use. The parks are free to enter. Camping, lodge rooms, golf, marina use, and special activities have separate fees.
What makes Kentucky state parks unique?
Kentucky is famous for its 17 “Resort Parks” featuring full-service lodges with restaurants, 18-hole golf courses, swimming pools, and conference facilities — more resort-style amenities than most state park systems.
Can I stay at a lodge in a Kentucky state park?
Yes, Kentucky’s resort parks feature full-service lodges with hotel-style rooms, dining rooms serving traditional Kentucky cuisine, and extensive amenities. Popular lodges include Natural Bridge, Cumberland Falls, and Jenny Wiley.
What are the best state parks in Kentucky?
Top parks include Natural Bridge (sandstone arch and Red River Gorge), Cumberland Falls (the “Niagara of the South”), Carter Caves (cave tours), and Breaks Interstate Park (the “Grand Canyon of the South”).
Explore More Kentucky State Parks
Pine Mountain State Resort Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Kentucky. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Kentucky guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
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