📷 Ken Thomas, Public domainNatural Bridge State Resort Park
Slade, KY
A massive sandstone arch reached by a steep trail or a chairlift. Walk across the top for views over the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Natural Bridge in the state resort park of the same name near Slade is a sandstone arch about 24 m (78 ft) across and 20 m (65 ft) high, shaped over millions of years by natural processes. It was opened up as a private tourist attraction as early as 1895, and in 1926 the Louisville and Nashville Railroad handed the land over to the state. The park lies in the Red River Gorge area, within Daniel Boone National Forest.
Several trails lead to the arch. The Original Trail dates from the 1890s, and the park has more than 32 km of hiking trails in all, including Fat Man’s Squeeze and Balanced Rock. If you prefer an easier route, take the seasonal Sky Lift (check its operating times beforehand) and walk a short way from there to the arch, which you can also cross. Allow two to three hours for the arch, or a full day if you add more trails. The lodge and campground are in the park.
- Nearest town
- Slade, KY
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 37.7752, -83.6828
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. Cold, short days in January. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Miguel's CampsiteCampsite1 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort ParkTentsShowersToiletsWi-Fi
- CalliesCampsite7 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Lago Linda HideawayCampsite12 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Clear Creek CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- White Sulphur Horse CampCampsite22 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Claylick Boat-in CampgroundCampsite23 mi from Natural Bridge State Resort Park
All campsites in Kentucky · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Natural Bridge State Resort Park?
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is in Slade, KY, at GPS 37.7752, -83.6828. It is about 36 mi from Berea.
Can you camp near Natural Bridge State Resort Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Miguel's Campsite, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 19 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Natural Bridge State Resort Park?
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Red River Gorge arches and Kentucky crafts.
What is there to see near Natural Bridge State Resort Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Nada Tunnel (3 mi), Sky Bridge (6 mi), Berea (36 mi) and Carter Caves State Resort Park (51 mi).
When is the best time to visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)