Kentucky
25

KINGDOM COME STATE PARK

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Cardinal © stateparks.com
Cardinal
Cool Swim © stateparks.com
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
Campfire and Hotdogs © stateparks.com
Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
Oh Yell © stateparks.com
Small Boy Fishing © stateparks.com
Gone fishin.
Keep On Leash © stateparks.com
Afternoon Hike © stateparks.com
Spring Hike © stateparks.com
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KINGDOM COME STATE PARK
KINGDOM COME STATE PARK
502 Park Road
Cumberland, Kentucky   40823-0420

Phone: 606-589-2479
Email:
With an elevation of 2,700 feet, Kingdom Come is Kentucky¿s highest state park. Resting near the Kentucky-Virginia border on the crest of Pine Mountain, the park offers scenic vistas second to none.

The park¿s name is from John Fox Jr.¿s novel "The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come," a book about an orphaned youth and his journey through the hills and into the furor of the Civil War. Extraordinary rock formations are featured at this park, including Log Rock, a natural sandstone bridge, and Raven Rock, a giant monolith that soars 290-feet into the air at a 45-degree angle.
History of the Area
Located in the Appalachian Mountains of southeastern Kentucky, Kingdom Come State Park was established in 1961. The area's history is deeply intertwined with coal mining; prior to its designation as a park, much of the land was subject to extensive logging and coal extraction.

The name "Kingdom Come" originates from John Fox Jr.'s novel "The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come," set during the Civil War era. This literary connection highlights cultural significance beyond natural beauty.

Within its boundaries are historical features such as log cabins that reflect early settler life and remnants from past mining operations. These artifacts serve as reminders of human impact on this landscape over centuries.

Efforts have been made to restore ecosystems damaged by previous land uses. Recreational facilities were added including hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks showcasing panoramic views like Raven Rock.

As conservation awareness grew throughout late 20th century into the 21st century so did initiatives for habitat preservation within these public lands ensuring protection for diverse flora and fauna native to Appalachia.
Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
November 29 An undiscovered treasure. by Dean
Great black bear watching(bigger bears than the Smokies), stunning views, incredible rock formations, lots of good trails.
November 12 One of Kentuckys most beautiful parks! by Ron
Even though this is one of the lesser known parks in Kentucky it is one of the most beautiful, some of the best views in the whole state are right here in this small but gorgeous park.
Reservations
Arrival Date
Number of Nights
Directions
- Take I-75 South towards Corbin.
- Merge onto US 25E S via Exit 29 toward Cumberland Gap/Middlesboro.
- Continue on US 25E for approximately 60 miles until you reach Harlan County.
- Turn left onto KY Hwy.119 and continue for about 10 miles.
- Turn right onto KY Hwy.160 and follow the signs leading to Kingdom Come State Park.
Kentucky
25

KINGDOM COME STATE PARK

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