Kentucky State Parks Cumberland Falls and Shaker Village
Updated: Oct 8
"Experience, travel – these are as education in themselves." – Euripides
On our way to the Great Smoky Mountains, we took our time and enjoyed the many flavors of Kentucky. What could have been simply a travel day became an enjoyable journey through horse country, historic villages, state parks, and one of the state's most beautiful waterfalls.
After a stop at the Creation Museum near Petersburg, Kentucky, we continued south to Lexington and into the heart of Kentucky horse country.
While the rolling fields and white-fenced farms are visible from the Interstate, the real beauty reveals itself when you venture onto the back roads. Winding lanes pass immaculate horse farms, stately Southern homes, and miles of carefully maintained fencing that seem to stretch to the horizon.
Our overnight stop was at Waveland Historic Site, a Harvest Hosts location on the southwest side of Lexington.
Although the museum was closed when we arrived, the grounds provided a quiet and level place to spend the night. Waveland was once the home of Daniel Boone's nephew, Daniel Boone Bryan, and the property offers plenty of opportunities to stroll and explore.
The site is only a short drive from several dining options and shopping areas, making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through Lexington. I would gladly stay here again.
Kentucky History on a Pleasant Hill
The next morning we headed southwest through Wilmore to visit Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.
This beautifully restored community tells the story of the Shakers, a religious society known for its simple living, skilled craftsmanship, and strong sense of community. Walking through the village feels a bit like stepping back in time.
The restored buildings now serve as museums, shops, lodging, and gathering places. Throughout the village you'll find examples of classic Shaker furniture and design, reflecting their belief that beauty and usefulness should go hand in hand.
Tours are available, and even a self-guided visit provides a fascinating look into an important chapter of Kentucky history. We found ourselves lingering longer than expected, simply enjoying the peaceful setting and well-preserved buildings.
Levi Jackson State Park
That evening we continued south to Levi Jackson State Park near London, Kentucky.
Like many Kentucky state parks, Levi Jackson offers a pleasant camping experience with wooded sites and easy access to local attractions. During our stay we noticed the campground had a strong community atmosphere, with many seasonal and local campers enjoying golf carts and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
For visitors seeking a quieter camping experience, some areas of the campground may be preferable to others. If we return, we would likely reserve one of the more secluded sites that appeared set apart from the busier sections.
One feature we especially enjoyed was the historic mill area and the collection of millstones displayed throughout the grounds. The exhibits provide an interesting look at how grain was processed in earlier ties and add a unique educational element to the park.
Cumberland Falls: The Niagara of the South
The following day we continued toward the Smokies, making a stop at Kentucky State Parks Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. The drive from Corbin follows a winding road through the hills, but the destination is well worth the effort.
The park showcases classic state park architecture and thoughtful landscaping. A network of walkways and overlooks provides excellent views of the falls from many different angles.
We spent time talking with an artist who was painting the falls and a middle-school teacher leading students on an annual field trip. Encounters like these are one of the unexpected joys of travel and often become as memorable as the destination itself.
One especially touching moment occurred as Sue and I walked hand-in-hand toward an overlook. A young woman noticed us and quietly remarked to her friend, "That's what I want in my life."After more than four decades together, it was a simple comment, but one we'll always remember.
Cumberland Falls is perhaps best known for its famous Moonbow, a rare lunar rainbow that appears under the right conditions several nights each month. Visitors can find Moonbow viewing schedules online and plan accordingly.
Because Cumberland Falls sits along a route we expect to travel many times in the future, we're certain this won't be our last visit.
As we continue our travels, we're learning that the journey is often every bit as rewarding as the destination. Kentucky proved to be much more than a route to the Smokies. It became an enjoyable chapter of the adventure itself, and we're sure we'll return someday and maybe find you . . . Along the Pooka Trail.
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🚍 Pooka Trail Notes
Route: Petersburg → Lexington → Pleasant Hill → London → Cumberland Falls → Great Smoky Mountains
Overnight Stops:
Waveland Historic Site (Harvest Hosts), Lexington
• Levi Jackson State Park, London
Trip Highlights:
Kentucky horse country and scenic back roads
• Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill
• Historic mill exhibits at Levi Jackson State Park
• Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Would We Return? Absolutely. We'd happily return to the Lexington area, spend more time exploring Shaker Village, and never tire of visiting Cumberland Falls.
Best Surprise: The beauty of Kentucky beyond the Interstate. The horse farms, winding country roads, and historic sites turned a travel day into a memorable destination of its own.
RV Takeaway: Some of the best days on the road happen when you slow down. Leave room in your schedule for unexpected stops, scenic detours, and conversations with people you meet along the way.
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