Did you know waterfalls are classified into 10 different types based on the way the water descends? Those classifications include plunge, punchbowl, cascade, and tiered. And while Angel Falls in Venezuela may be the highest, uninterrupted waterfall in the world at 3,212 feet, our own Niagara Falls is the world’s most visited, drawing more than 30 million visitors annually. There are plenty of waterfalls in the US to visit and experience the thrill of rushing water and marvel at these natural wonders.
Bridalveil Fall, California
At its peak in spring and early summer, Yosemite’s Bridalveil Fall is accessible via a 20 minute easy walk on a paved trail. Take note, you might get wet from the strong spray of the falls – which is why the Indians named it Pohono, which means Spirit of the Puffing Wind! One of the most prominent falls in Yosemite National Park, the fall is 617-feet high and flows year-round.
(Yosemite National Park is less than 10 minutes from Yosemite Lakes RV Campground.)
Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
Have you ever seen a moonbow? If you want to check that phenomenon off your list of must-sees, visit the Cumberland Falls on the night of a full moon. The Cumberland Falls, located in Corbin, Kentucky, also called the “Niagara of the South,” are 25-foot wide falls on the Cumberland River. For full moon dates and general information, visit www/parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/cumberland-falls.
(Corbin, Kentucky, is about a 2-hour drive along the beautiful Cumberland Parkway from Diamond Caverns RV Campground.)
Waterfalls of the Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires, in western Massachusetts, are home to more than 20 waterfalls. Considered by many as the most dramatic of the Berkshire’s falls, Bash Bish is the tallest at 120 feet, while Race Brook Falls offers five stunning waterfalls on Mt. Race which can be viewed after a one mile hike. For a list and locations of the Berkshire’s fall, visit berkshires.org/berkshire-waterfalls.
(The waterfalls of the Berkshires are located between 1.5 and 2 hours from Sturbridge RV Campground.)
Multnomah Falls – Oregon
Oregon’s Multnomah Falls come in at 611 feet tall, making it the tallest waterfall in the state. The falls drop into two major steps, creating upper and lower falls. According to Native American lore, the falls were created for a princess who wanted a private spot to bathe! For the best view of the falls, hike up a paved path to Benson Bridge.
(Multnomah Falls are located approximately 100 miles from Seaside RV Campground.)
Bushkilll Falls – Pennsylvania
Also called the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is actually a series of eight cascades. Located in the Pocono Mountains, you can get up close and personal with these falls via hiking trails and bridges. For information and park hours, visit www.bushkillfalls.com.
(Bushkill Falls are approximately 14 miles from Timothy Lake RV Campground.)
Twin Falls, South Carolina
A quick 15-minute walk will you take you to the viewing deck of these falls that, despite the name, are not twins. In fact, they fall from different heights and there is actually a third smaller fall to the right of the falls! A bonus waterfall, if you will.
(Twin Falls are located about 35 miles from Carolina Landing RV Campground.)
Snoqualmie Falls – Washington
At roughly 268 feet, Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington State’s biggest attractions and possibly most famous as the Falls is a television star of sorts appearing in the opening credit of the cult show, “Twin Peaks.” The Snoqualmie Indians who have lived in the area for centuries look to the Falls as a source of spirituality and believe that mists rising from the base of the waterfall serve to connect Heaven and Earth. Visitors can view the Falls from an observation deck after a short walk (note the walk involves stairs but there is a handicap walk, as well).
(Snoqualmie Falls are less than 5 miles from Tall Chief RV Campground.)