Attractions and Places To See in Laurel County - Top 7

Laurel County offers diverse natural beauty, primarily centered around the Laurel River Lake, nestled within the Daniel Boone National Forest. This lake is ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. You can also explore the rugged, forested terrain of Cane Creek WMA, which is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Other natural features include Pine Island Double Falls, Fishtrap Natural Bridge, and Daylight Twin Arches, offering unique hiking experiences.

Yes, Laurel County boasts an extensive network of trails. The Sheltowee Trace Trail, a 343-mile backcountry route, traverses the region, including sections near Cane Creek WMA and Laurel River Lake. Other notable trails include the 2.9-mile Laurel River Lake Trail, Hoosier Knob Trail, and Infantry Ridge Trails at Camp Wildcat Battlefield. You can also walk along parts of the historic Old Wilderness Road.

Laurel County is rich in history. A significant site is the Camp Wildcat Battlefield, where the Union Army secured its first victory in the Civil War. You can also visit Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park, which preserves a section of the historic Wilderness Road and features the Mountain Life Museum and McHargue's Mill. The Colonel Sanders Cafe and Museum offers a unique look into the origins of KFC. Additionally, the Laurel County History Museum and Genealogy Center provides further insights into the area's past.

Absolutely! Laurel River Lake is a great spot for families, offering swimming, boating, and picnicking. Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park provides educational and recreational activities, including a treetop aerial adventure. The Camp Wildcat Battlefield offers an engaging historical experience for older children. For indoor fun, options like the Air Raid Trampoline Park, The Palace Family Entertainment Center, and Finley's Fun Center are available.

The primary destination for water activities is Laurel River Lake. Its clear waters are perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, and even scuba diving. The lake also features quiet coves and a permanent beach near the Laurel River Dam spillway for relaxation. The Rockcastle River also offers opportunities for water-based recreation.

Yes, Laurel County is home to diverse wildlife. At Laurel River Lake, you might see Canadian geese, wintering bald eagles, and deer along the shoreline. The Cane Creek WMA, within the Daniel Boone National Forest, is an excellent place for wildlife enthusiasts to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species in its dense hardwood forests.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in Laurel County, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summer is ideal for water activities at Laurel River Lake, though it can be warm. Winter provides opportunities for spotting bald eagles and other wildlife, especially around the lake.

Yes, London, the county seat, hosts the annual World Chicken Festival. This event celebrates the county's connection to Colonel Sanders and the origins of KFC, drawing large crowds with its unique festivities. While outside Laurel County, the Laurel Gorge Cultural Heritage Center in Sandy Hook offers insights into Appalachian life and natural resources.

Many of Laurel County's outdoor spaces, particularly its extensive trail networks within the Daniel Boone National Forest and around Laurel River Lake, are generally dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Specific park regulations may vary, so it's advisable to check ahead for any restrictions at particular sites.

Beyond the popular spots, Laurel County holds some hidden natural gems. Cane Creek WMA offers an immersive backcountry experience with rugged terrain and minimal facilities, perfect for those seeking solitude. Pine Island Double Falls is a beautiful, lesser-known waterfall that provides a magical experience for adventurous hikers. Fishtrap Natural Bridge and Daylight Twin Arches also offer unique geological formations to explore.

The Old Wilderness Road is a path blazed by Daniel Boone in 1775, serving as a crucial passage for pioneers heading west. In Laurel County, sections of this historic route are preserved, particularly within Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park. Walking these paths offers a tangible connection to the early American frontier and the footsteps of those who settled the region.