Exploring Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky

Daniel Boone National Forest is often referred to as “hidden in plain sight”. Although it encompasses over 2 million acres of diverse Kentucky wilderness, most people have never heard of it. When we began planning our trip, some of the responses we received from family and friends included- “You’re going where?” and “Why there?”. We weren’t sure what to expect when we set out to explore this national forest but any expectations we did have were completely blown away.

History of Daniel Boone National Forest

Originally there was about 1,338,214 acres of protected forest. It has been added to throughout the years through purchasing land and donations from coal and timber companies. There is still some private land within the forest that the owners have been holding on to.

What You Need to Know About Daniel Boone National Forest Before Visiting

Location:

1700 Bypass Road, London, KY 40744

Phone:

(859) 745-3100

Website:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/dbnf/

Entrance Fees:

Access to most areas in the park are free. Permits are required for certain activities such backcountry camping, boat ramp usage, etc.

Entering and Traveling Through Daniel Boone National Forest

Due to the great vastness of this national forest, it’s important to always have some idea of where you’re headed to in order to make the most out of your time here (don’t worry, this blog makes it easy to do just that!) Depending on which section of the national forest you are visiting, there are multiple ways to enter. When we visited, we decided to spend most of our time in the northern and mid sections of the forest, where some of its most renowned features are. We entered off of KY 64. You can take I-75 if you’re exploring the southern section of the forest.

What to Do in Daniel Boone National Forest

Hiking: There are over 600 miles of beautiful trails that often interconnect throughout the forest. These trails vary in difficulty and length. I recommend the trails around Cave Run Lake, in Natural Bridge State Resort Park, and in Red River Gorge National Geological Area.

Biking: There are many trails and roads throughout the forest that allow year-round bike access. The National Forest Service asks that you avoid biking on these trails during wet weather to avoid eroding the soil.

Nature Viewing: Take in the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife.

Climbing: Towering, sandstone cliffs make this an ideal area for climbers.

Photography: There are many opportunities for nature photographers to capture the beauty of this forest.

Swimming: Swimming is allowed in any waterways unless otherwise stated.

Kayaking/canoeing/boating: Explore the lakes and rivers that flow through the forest. Be aware of invasive species and take the proper precautions.

Snorkeling/scuba diving: Experience this national forest from a new perspective. Snorkel or scuba dive in forest rivers or lakes. Just be aware of submerged trees and other objects. Swimming near boat ramps, docks, and marinas is prohibited on Cave Run Lake, Laurel River Lake, and Lake Cumberland.

Where to Stay in Daniel Boone National Forest

Camping: During our visit, we stayed at Twin Knobs Campground located next to Cave Run Lake. There are many easily accessible trails you can reach from this campsite surrounding the lake. There are many other campsites throughout the forest as well.

When to Go

Spring and summer months offer bountiful wildflowers. Visit during the warmer months of the year for ideal weather for water activities.

Best Photo Opportunities in Daniel Boone National Forest

Cave Run Lake: Glimmering, turquoise water in front of a backdrop of rolling hills creates beautiful landscape composures. Don’t miss taking in the stunning view during sunset, as well.
The view from Natural Bridge in Natural Bridge State Resort Park: An incredible viewpoint on top of the natural bridge that allows you to see seemingly never-ending lush, Kentucky wilderness
Lover’s Leap viewpoint along Laurel Ridge Trail in Natural Bridge State Resort Park: This breath-taking viewpoint makes for a great shot from any direction. This was my favorite viewpoint of our entire trip!
Grey Arch in Red River Gorge Geological Area: A towering natural arch that stretches boldly above the treetops. Interesting cave and rock formations, make up the surrounding area at its base.

Other Adventures near Daniel Boone National Forest

Mammoth Cave National Park is located a little over 100 miles away from Daniel Boone National Forest.
Lexington is also located a little over 100 miles away. Check out the weekly farmers market (every Saturday year-round), explore the downtown area, and/or eat a nourishing meal at one of Lexington’s incredible vegan restaurants (Not Your Ordinary Vegan Cafe and The Weekly Juicery are delicious options). You can always check Happy Cow to find vegan options wherever you are.

Safety

Fire: When camping in a new area, always be updated and informed on the fire rules and regulations. Dry weather conditions are closely monitored and fire bans are occasionally put in place.

Wildlife: As with any national park or natural area, it’s important to be educated on the animals that reside there and how to prevent negative interactions with them. Remember that we are in their home. View all wildlife from a distance. Please do not approach, disrupt, or feed any wildlife.

Black bears: If you happen to come across a black bear, it’s important to stay calm. If the bear isn’t aware of you, do not surprise them. Speak calmly and firmly to the bear. Don’t make any sudden noises or scream. Back away slowly and don’t turn your back and run. If you’re with children, pick them up or hold on to them. You can read the National Park Service’s guide to hiking in bear country here. Storing your food properly is another important aspect of bear safety. In order to prevent bears from seeing humans as a potential source of food, it’s critical to store and dispose of food responsibly and always follow the bear safety food regulations set by the National Park Service.

Overlooks: Make sure to keep children close neer steep edges and overlooks. Some overlooks lack gaurdrails and edges can be dangerous due to weathered rock. Never throw anything over the edge. of an overlook. Even a small stone could be fatal to hikers or climbers below.

Leave No Trace

Please be respectful of nature and follow the Leave No Trace Principles. It is important to always stay on trails to avoid destroying fragile ecosystems. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.