Top state parks
State ParkCumberland Falls State Resort Park
State ParkOld Fort Harrod State Park
State ParkPine Mountain State Resort Park
State ParkE. P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park
State ParkLevi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park
State ParkBig Bone Lick State Park
State ParkNatural Bridge State Resort Park
State ParkLake Cumberland State Resort Park
State ParkMy Old Kentucky Home State Park
State ParkNolin Lake State Park
State ParkColumbus-Belmont State Park
State ParkFort Boonesborough State Park
State Parks by county
All state parks (36)
Sky = estimated Bortle class (1 darkest – 9 brightest).
Map
How to photograph state parks
State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.
- Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
- Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
- Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
- Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
- Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.
Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.