Red River Gorge Geological Area

Area Status: Open

The Red River Gorge is a unique, scenic natural area that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Spectacular rock features, including sandstone arches and towering cliffs, are just part of the attraction. Outdoor enthusiasts come to the gorge year-round to enjoy hiking, camping, canoeing, wildlife viewing and other recreation opportunities.

The Red River Gorge is a federally-designated National Geological Area, National Natural Landmark, National Archaeological District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Gorge is also home to the federally-designated Wild and Scenic Red River and Clifty Wilderness.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources regulations allow hunting and trapping in the gorge. All visitors should take appropriate safety precautions to protect themselves and pets when using the gorge during hunting and trapping seasons.

At a Glance

Passes:	No fee for trail use. All vehicles on KY 15 or in the Red River Gorge and Indian Creek area north of KY 15 must display a recreation permit for backcountry camping between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. $5/day; $7/3 days; $50/annual pass. Recreation Passes and Permits
Information Center:	Gladie Office Contact Information

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Recreation areas with activity Mountain Biking:

Campground Camping

Recreation areas with activity Campground Camping:

Koomer Ridge Campground

The Koomer Ridge Campground is the only developed campground near the Red River Gorge that occurs on national forest land. Dispersed camping in the general forest area of the gorge is permitted.

Dispersed Camping

Recreation areas with activity Dispersed Camping:

Tunnel Ridge Road

River and Stream Fishing

Recreation areas with activity River and Stream Fishing:

Red River

Day Hiking

Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:

Viewing Wildlife

Recreation areas with activity Viewing Wildlife:

The Red River Gorge offers unique habitat for various plants and animals. The rare white-haired goldenrod occurs no other place in the world. The gorge is also Kentucky's only known breeding site for red-breasted nuthatches.

Species