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.
Located at the base of Raven Rock, the amphitheater is equipped with lighting and seating to accommodate scouting and civic groups seeking a totally natural meeting site. This giant sandstone rockhouse can be reached from a trail at the top of Raven Rock or from the Laurel Trail behind the lake parking area.
Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and trout are fishing game in the 3.5 acre mountain lake. Year-round.
Pedal boats are available at the lake Friday thru Sunday.
April - October. A rental fee is charged.
A nine-hole miniature golf course is near the lake and gift shop. This beautiful course follows the natural contours of the hillside overlooking the lake.
April to October. A $2.50 fee is charged per round.
The 14 hiking trails that crisscross nearly 5 miles of rugged mountain terrain provide the opportunity to explore the park's giant rock formations and scenic overlooks. All of the trails are fairly short in length (1/8-7/8 mile), but many trail routes may be combined for hikes of varying lengths and difficulty.
A trail guide publication is available at the park. Trails are open year-round.
Little Shepherd Trail
This narrow gravel and blacktop road extends 38 miles along the crest of Pine Mountain from Whitesburg to Harlan. The road traverses the park near the summit of Pine Mountain. This is an excellent scenic route for mountain bikes, cars (remember the gravel), and light trucks.
Recreational Activities
For recreational enjoyment, the park has several playgrounds, one basketball court and rental equipment for horseshoes. Year-round.
Gift Shop
Overlooking the lake, the gift shop features Kentucky handcrafts and souvenirs. April-October.