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Kentucky
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Kentucky State Parks

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Pine Mountain State Resort Park
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PINE MOUNTAIN STATE RESORT PARK
PINE MOUNTAIN STATE RESORT PARK
1050 State Park Road
Pineville, Kentucky   40977

Phone: 606-337-3066
Email: park email button icon
History of the Area
Pine Mountain became Kentuckys first state park in 1924. When the Kentucky State Parks Commission was created in the 1920s, there was considerable interest among the citizens of Bell County in establishing a state park. Accordingly, the newly appointed chairman of the parks commission, Dr. Willard Rouse Jilson, was invited to meet with local citizens to discuss the possibilities.

The region of the nearby Cumberland Gap was first considered as a possible state park site, but its great cultural significance and potential as a future national park led Jilson to look elsewhere. Eventually, dozens of local citizens would join with the county officials to assemble and donate land in a community effort for the establishment of a state park.

The parks commission accepted this generous gift, originally consisting of present-day Laurel Cove and adjacent areas, and named the new site Cumberland State Park. By 1938, the name had been changed to Pine Mountain State Park to avoid confusion with the similarly named Cumberland Falls State Park, which had since come into the park system.

In the early years, little development took place at Pine Mountain. There were few facilities and a limited system of roads and trails. Substantial development began in 1933 with the inception of the Civilian Conservation Corps CCC, a federally funded program to put young men to work and relieve some of the financial strain of the Great Depression.

The facility development program initiated through the CCC included the construction of roads, bridges, shelters, and hiking trails. Also constructed were log cabins the original accommodations of the park, today Cabins 215-224, and a main office building. The original office building today serves as the upper lobby adjacent to the dining room of the present park lodge. The construction utilizes native sandstone and American chestnut logs.

During the 1960s, the Kentucky State Parks embarked upon an era of major expansion. Pine Mountain was recognized as a park deserving greater development, and substantial funding was allotted for new on-site projects. This massive program included the complete renovation of the old lodge with the addition of a wing of 30 guest rooms, 10 cottages, swimming pool, golf course, and road improvements. Facility renovation was again undertaken in 1997-99 and periodically thereafter to achieve needed repairs and improvements.

Today, core park facilities originally constructed by the CCC reflect the splendid craftsmanship and work styles of their creators. These historic structures lend a special old-fashioned charm to Pine Mountain. The park is widely regarded as one of the finest resorts Kentucky has to offer, boasting magnificent natural landscapes steeped in cultural history.
Cottages
Enjoy rustic charm in one or two-bedroom cottages. The nine one-bedroom log cabins have stone fireplaces and private decks. The eleven two-bedroom cottages have porches or decks surrounded by woodland settings. Grills are furnished for the cabins and cottages. Cottages are available by late afternoon. Check-out by 1000am, local time. A limited number of cottages will be available for pets.
Lodge
You will be charmed by the skilled craftsmanship of stone and wood throughout Herndon J. Evans Lodge. Each of the 30 rooms has a private patio or balcony to enjoy mountain views. Open year-round. AAA 3 - Diamond rating. Rooms are available by late afternoon. Lodge room check-out by 1100am, local time. A limited number of lodge rooms and cottages will be available for pets.
Swimming
Cool off with a refreshing dip in our pool meets ADA standards. The lodge pool is for the exclusive use of overnight park guests. Hours 900 am 900 pm daily, Memorial Day to Labor Day. No lifeguards on duty.
Fishing
Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park's Laurel Cove Lake. Species include bass, bluegill, and catfish among others.

Fishing gear rentals are available for those who need equipment.

A valid Kentucky Fishing License is required to fish within the park boundaries.

Catch-and-release practices are encouraged to maintain a healthy population of fish species in the lake.



Picnicking
Picnic areas can be found at various scenic locations across the park. Tables, grills, rest rooms, and a covered shelter are located near Laurel Cove and the similarly outfitted Dogwood Shelter, on the parks east end, is located adjacent to a playground. Shelters are available for rental up to three years in advance.
Trails
Pine Mountain is a hikers paradise with 12 miles of self-guided trails. Hike to Chained Rock, the Hemlock Garden or various other trails with names like Honeymoon Falls, Rock Hotel, and Timber Ridge. The new Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail, will pass near the park when completed.

Hemlock Garden Trail 0.5 miles

Honeymoon Falls Trail 1.35 miles

Chained Rock Trail 0.35 miles

Laurel Cove Trail 1.75 miles

Rock Hotel Trail 0.75 miles

Timber Ridge Trail 1 miles

Azalea Trail 0.35 miles

Fern Garden Trail 1.2 miles

Lost Trail 0.45 miles

Longhunter Trail 0.2 miles

Ridgerunner Trail 1.9 miles

Living Stairway Trail 0.5 miles

Narrows Overlook Trail 0.5 miles

Clear Creek Hollow 0.4 miles




Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with a variety of species, including warblers and hawks. Birdwatchers can explore the Chained Rock trail or Hemlock Garden for sightings. The annual Warbler Weekend event is popular among enthusiasts. A checklist guidebook aids in identifying different birds within the area.

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Kentucky
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Kentucky State Parks

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