Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, located near Corbin in southeastern Kentucky, is home to one of the region’s most striking natural attractions. Known as the "Niagara of the South," this park features the impressive Cumberland Falls, a 68-foot waterfall that plunges into a rocky gorge, creating a breathtaking scene any visitor will remember. What sets this spot apart from others in the area is the rare lunar rainbow—also called a "moonbow"—visible on clear, full-moon nights, a phenomenon found almost nowhere else in the Western Hemisphere besides Africa’s Victoria Falls.

The park is surrounded by dense hardwood forests that display vibrant seasonal colors, especially stunning during autumn. The geology of the area is equally remarkable, with layers of sandstone and shale shaped by millions of years of natural forces. Wildlife is abundant here, including species typical of the Appalachian region, making it an attractive destination for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Well-maintained trails wind through the park, offering access to scenic viewpoints, peaceful riverbanks, and other smaller waterfalls such as Eagle Falls. A deeper history touches this land too, with remnants of early 20th-century developments nearby that hint at the area’s evolving relationship with tourism and conservation. Facilities include a visitor center, gift shop, picnic areas, and lodging options, allowing guests to comfortably take in the natural beauty day or night.

Whether it’s the thunderous roar of the main waterfall, the ethereal moonbow, or the peaceful forest walks, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers a distinctive mix of natural wonders and Southern Appalachian charm that keeps visitors returning year after year.