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| Pink Corydalis |
More than half of the park's acreage is designated as a Kentucky State Nature Preserve. Pine Mountain State Nature Preserve consists of approximately 868 acres. The preserve is situated on the Pine Mountain fault block, known as one of the most prominent geological structures in the eastern United States.
The preserve contains an old growth forest of eastern hemlock, tulip poplar, and white oak - many 200-300 years old. The site is home to an infrequent wildflower known as Pink Corydalis (Corydalis Sempervirens). In Kentucky it is restricted to the southeastern section and is sometimes locally plentiful on sandstone on Pine mountain. A significant archaeological site, a large natural sandstone shelter known as Rock Hotel, is also on the preserve and was formerly inhabited by prehistoric Native Americans.
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| Rock Hotel Natural Shelter |
All state nature preserves are special places, but those located within the Kentucky State Parks are particularly unique locales with specific management priorities. While parks are maintained primarily for outdoor recreation and nature study, nature preserves are set apart for the express use of rare or endangered species or communities that occur there. The Pine Mountain preserve is managed in cooperation with the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission.
