Creelsboro Natural Bridge – The “Rockhouse”

Attention hikers and nature explorers!

While you’re boating and fishing on Lake Cumberland or staying in one of the many cabins, camping sites and the Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, be sure to visit nearby Lake Cumberland area attractions.  Don’t miss the Creelsboro Natural Bridge — also referred to as “The Rockhouse Natural Bridge” or “Rockhouse Bottom”.

Creelsboro Natural Bridge near Lake Cumberland is a 300 million-year-old natural limestone arch over 60 feet high and over 120 feet wide, and is the largest natural bridge east of the Rockies – and the seventy largest natural bridge in the United States.  The naturally formed structure provided shelter for Native Americans and early settlers against the elements, and a Native American burial ground lies on top.

The Creelsboro Natural Bridge is classified as a meander natural bridge because it was created by river erosion of a cliff on the outer side of a sharp meander in Jim Creek which flows through it before merging into the Cumberland River.

While the historic arch is technically on private property, it is accessible to tourists and hikers at no charge.  A very rugged trail takes you down to the historic bridge formation, and guests can walk all the way to the Cumberland River when the levels are low. This is not a handicap accessible attraction.

If all that hiking and exploring makes you hungry, you will find a wide selection of Lake Cumberland places to eat, including the Creelsboro Historic Country Store & Restaurant, a farm to table restaurant located in an original 1876 building, featuring local meats and vegetables.  Be sure to visit the gift shop for local gifts and crafts.  You will pass the Creelsboro Country Store and Restaurant on your way to “The Rockhouse.”

The natural bridge is located off Highway 379 near the old community of Creelsboro, approximately 7 miles downstream from Wolf Creek Dam.  GPS Directions:  N 36   53.073′   W 085  14.237′.  For additional help, call the Lake Cumberland Tourist Commission at (270) 866-4333 Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm cst.