Nicknamed the “Niagara of the South,” this 125-foot waterfall cascades into a boulder-filled gorge, creating a stunning spectacle at any time of day. However, it’s only during a full moon that you can witness something truly unique—a moonbow, a phenomenon that can’t be seen anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere.
Things to do
Marvel at Cumberland Falls
Witness the awe-inspiring 125-foot waterfall, often referred to as the “Niagara of the South.”Explore the Pinnacle Knob 1937 Fire Tower
Take a tour of this historic fire tower, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.Hike Eagle Falls Trail
Embark on a scenic hike along Eagle Falls Trail, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings.Gem Mine for Fossils (Seasonal)
Discover real fossils and colorful gemstones at the gem mine during the season.Horseback Riding Through the Forest
Experience the thrill of horseback riding on guided trails through the beautiful eastern Kentucky forest.
Birding
Enjoy some of the most memorable birding experiences, such as hearing the distinct call of the Pileated Woodpecker or the melodic flute-like song of the Wood Thrush. The Cumberland Falls area is a migration stop for many species of Wood Warblers traveling from South America to the Northern States and Canada. You can spot a variety of bird species from the Riverview Restaurant and the back patio of the DuPont Lodge, including the Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Tufted Titmouse, Carolina Wren, Chipping Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Downy Woodpecker, and Red-bellied Woodpecker.
Camping
Experience the great outdoors at the campground, which features 50 campsites equipped with electric and water hookups. The campground offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, a grocery store, and a dump station. Pets are allowed if restrained. The campground is open seasonally.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the Cumberland River, where you can catch bass, catfish, panfish, and roughfish. A Kentucky Fishing License is required, which can be purchased online through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Gift Shop
Explore the gift shop, which offers a wide selection of Kentucky handcrafts. The shop is open year-round.
Gem Mining
Uncover real, colorful gemstones and fossils at the gemstone flume. Place a scoop of rough material on the screen and rinse it with clean water to reveal vibrant gemstones like Pyrite, Fluorite, Quartz, Ruby, Moonstone, Topaz, and many more. Gem mining is a fun activity for individuals, families, and groups of all sizes.
Hiking
Cumberland Falls is a hiker’s paradise, with 17 miles of trails winding through scenic areas. The Moonbow Trail connects with several backpacking trails in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Please note that pets are not allowed within the McCreary County side of Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, as this area is a dedicated Kentucky State Nature Preserve.
Horseback Riding
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is an excellent place to introduce the family to horseback riding. The park offers guided trail rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. Riders aged 6 and up can enjoy a 45-minute ride through the beautiful Kentucky forest. The stables are open daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, with additional weekend availability in May, September, and October. The cost is $25.00 per person. Personal horses are not permitted on the trails within the park, but there are opportunities in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest and The Big South Fork National River and Recreation area.
Picnicking
The picnic area is perfect for family outings, offering tables, grills, and playgrounds. A picnic shelter, equipped with tables, grills, water, and electricity (without restrooms), is available for rental up to a year in advance.
Rafting
Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort provides a variety of activities, including beginner-friendly whitewater rafting trips below Cumberland Falls, unguided canoeing and kayaking above the falls, and guided trips to the base of the falls, such as the Rainbow Mist and Rainbow Mist Stand-Up Paddleboard trips.
Snack Shop
Located across from the Gift Shop, the Snack Shop offers a variety of food and drink options. It is open seasonally.
Swimming
The pool is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For updated days and hours of operation, please contact the park.
Moonbow
Cumberland Falls is one of the few places in the world where you can regularly witness a moonbow, also known as a lunar rainbow or white rainbow. This natural phenomenon occurs when light is refracted in water droplets, similar to a regular rainbow, and is visible for about two days before and after a full moon, provided the sky is clear. Check the current moonbow schedule online.
Lodging & Camping
The historic DuPont Lodge, with its solid hemlock beams and knotty pine paneling, perfectly complements the massive stone fireplaces, making it one of the most beautiful state park lodges. The lodge features 51 rooms, each offering stunning views and full amenities, including interior corridors. If you’re looking for other accommodations, the park also offers 25 cozy cabins and cottages, as well as 49 campsites.
Dining
Dine with a view at the Riverview Restaurant, where you can enjoy stunning scenery alongside your meal. As a proud supporter of the Kentucky Proud program, we prioritize using local meats and produce whenever possible. A deluxe continental breakfast is available every day of the week.
Restaurant Hours
Open Daily
- Breakfast: 7 a.m. – 10 a.m.
- Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Sunday Lunch Buffet: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.)
- Dinner:
- Sunday – Thursday: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Friday – Saturday: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Meetings/Groups
Imagine hosting your event beside a 60-foot waterfall plunging into a boulder-strewn gorge, with a gentle mist that brushes your face. On a clear night under a full moon, witness the enchanting moonbow—a truly unforgettable experience!