Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky (with Map & Photos)

The Daniel Boone National Forest is a United States Forest Service -managed National Forest locaded in eastern Kentucky. Its total area is about 2,800 km², which is about five percent of Kentucky's forested area. The forest area covers 21 counties in the state; from Rowan County in the north to McCreary County in the south. These lands, belonging to the Daniel Boone National Forest, are partly owned by the state and partly privately owned.

Daniel Boone National Forest
Daniel Boone National Forest

Daniel Boone National Forest is divided into six districts, with five of these districts - from north to south these are Morehead, Stanton, London, Somerset and Stearns - forming a contiguous area. The sixth is the Redbird District, which was purchased in 1965 and is a separate district to the east of the other districts. With a combination of wildlife on the one hand and a well-developed tourist infrastructure on the other, the national forest is a popular destination for hikers and, with over 5,000,000 visitors annually, is one of the most visited forests in the southern United States. Among other things, it offers numerous opportunities for recreation and entertainment for vacationers, hikers, climbers, fishermen and hunters.

Daniel Boone National Forest Location
Daniel Boone National Forest


Daniel Boone National Forest Location


The Cumberland Plateau is covered with forests, both deciduous and coniferous, including the Daniel Boone National Forest, named after the famous pioneer who explored Kentucky in the late 18th century. The Daniel Boone Forest is one of the state's tourist attractions, with many caves, beautiful lakes, gorges and hiking trails.

Daniel Boone National Forest Map