Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is already one of the four largest state resort parks in Kentucky, and, with nearly one million visitors annually, it is the most visited state park in Kentucky.
This doesn’t mean that the park is resting on its laurels.
The Kentucky General Assembly has earmarked $10 million for renovations to Dupont Lodge in the park, which hasn’t been renovated since the 1990s. Efforts are also underway to make repairs to trails.
This Christmas season the park plans to have five theme decorated cabins available to rent for the Christmas holiday, and hopefully – pending approval from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet – to have Gatliff Bridge, which joins Whitley and McCreary counties, lit up with Christmas lights, wreaths and other decorations this coming holiday season. In addition, other areas of the park, such as the Dupont Lodge entrance, will also be decked out with Christmas decorations this holiday season.
“We are just going to create a full on Hallmark Christmas town,” noted Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Manager Maggy Monhollen.
This was part of the message that Monhollen delivered to those in attendance Tuesday at the Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s monthly membership luncheon, which was held at The Corbin Center.
Out of the 44 Kentucky state parks, Cumberland Falls is one of the 17 resort parks, which feature their own lodging, dining and camping.
The park is nearly 1,000 acres large with a state nature preserve, and it is surrounded by nearly 600,000 acres of Daniel Boone National Forest.
“We are definitely an outdoor adventure oasis paradise for folks looking to get away and relax,” Monhollen added.
The park’s gift shop brings in almost $1 million in sales annually, which is the most of any state park in Kentucky.
Monhollen noted that the park recently hired a new chef, Zachary Calvert, who specializes in “elevated Appalachian cuisine.”
She promises that the park is working on its menu, and encouraged those in attendance to give it another try if they haven’t eaten there in quite some time.
Monhollen is also working on a new program to decorate the lodge with artwork from local photographers that highlights the park. In addition to the work being displayed, those visiting the park will also be able to purchase this artwork, which will be a benefit to both the park and the artists.
“I want you all to rediscover Cumberland Falls Park and explore more and discover more,” Monhollen said. “One of my goals in my leadership position is to continue to make Cumberland Falls State Resort Park a family destination.”
Monhollen took over as manager at the park about five months ago after working 10 years as Corbin Tourism Director.
Minuteman Press sponsored Tuesday’s luncheon.
Old Town Grill catered the event.
Next month’s chamber luncheon will take place on Oct. 8 at the Williamsburg Tourism and Convention Center.
