The best time to bird watch is in May and June when the woodland warblers and other neotropical birds return and are most vocal and active. The Fall migration is also good, in late September. Winter bird watching at the park can be fun because many of the leaves have dropped, making it easier to view various species of woodpeckers, kinglets, nuthatches, wrens, and sparrows. Year-round residents inlcude northern cardinal, American goldfinch, indigo bunting, song sparrow, belted kingfisher, American crow, great blue heron, wild turkey, pileated woodpecker, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, and Carolina wren. Best places to spot our feathered friends Hoods Branch Trail, Rock Garden Trail, Whittleton Branch Trail, Lakeside Trail, Mill Creek Lake, Picnic Shelter 3 4 area.

The ten hiking trails range from one-half mile to seven-and-one-half miles. Trail maps are available at the Hemlock Lodge. The Nature Center, located on the ground floor of the Activities Center, houses exhibits about the park. Full-time naturalists program events and activities year-round focusing on native plants animals, geology, and local history. Daily summer activitiesare directed by recreation staff.

The parks is adjacent to the U.S. Forest Service Red River Gorge Geological Area which also offers plenty of hiking opportunities.

Pets are not permitted on the hiking trails in Natural Bridge State Resort Park.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers more than just a fun family vacation. Our staff of professional Naturalists is available year-round to provide interpretive programs for groups of all sizes and ages, from school groups to seniors, scouts to corporate outings.

Enjoy fishing in the well-stocked Mill Creek Lake, home to largemouth bass, catfish and bluegill. A Kentucky Fishing License is required.

Tucked between the lake and the cliff beneath Hemlock Lodge is a new pool complex. The complex includes a spacious stone bathhouse, and a zero-depth (one can enter pool without steps) pool that holds 80,000 gallons of water. The main pool has a "river" theme with directional water jets and floor bubblers. Next to the main pool is a new fenced wading pool with floor bubbles and fountain.

Open seasonally and free to lodge and cottage guests. Open to the public Memorial Day through Labor Day when lifeguards are on duty. Weekdays $3 adult, $2 child W weekends $4 adult, $3 child. After mid-August, lifeguards are at the pool Saturday and Sunday only from 11 AM-6PM.