Rockcastle River - Kentucky

Rockcastle River

The upper section of the Rockcastle River north of Kentucky Highway 80 bridge is a Class II river recommended for the inexperienced canoeist. Put-in points are Rockcastle River Canoe Access at Peter Branch on KY 89 on the Berea Ranger District and at Wilderness Road ford at Livingston on the London Ranger District. The take-out point is KY 80 bridge.

The section from the KY 80 bridge to the backwaters of Lake Cumberland is a state designated wild river and is one of Kentucky's most popular white-water runs. This 16.9-mile section is classified as Class III and Class IV and is not recommended for the inexperienced canoeist. Special features include the "Loop," the "S" Turn, the "Stair Steps' and the 'Narrows.' These areas with blind turns, drops, undercut rocks, and in-stream obstacles require scouting and considerable expertise in water reading and whitewater tactics. Persons who wish to run the lower section of the river can camp at the Bee Rock Campground for a day or two and hike along the Narrows or Bee Rock trails to get an idea of what to expect when they canoe this section of the river.

More on paddling the Rockcastle

Go to : [ Daniel Boone National Forest ]