Camp Blanton, Harlan, Kentucky

Blanton Forest State Nature Preserve

      At 3,090 acres, Blanton Forest State Nature Preserve in Harlan County protects the largest old-growth forest in the Commonwealth. This diverse ecological treasure on Pine Mountain's southern slope is one of the largest old-growth forests in the eastern United States.

      Many of the trees are three to four feet in diameter, towering 100 feet above the forest floor. Blanton Forest contains several forest communities, including mixed-mesophytic deciduous forest with many kinds of canopy trees, such as sugar maple, tulip poplar, various oaks, hemlocks, beech and several species of magnolia trees.

      A trail system approximately four and a half miles in length is open for public use. The main trail consists of two loops leading to points of interest on the south face of Pine Mountain. The first loop is a moderately strenuous trail leading to a large sandstone rock outcrop known as Knobby Rock. From Knobby Rock, visitors gain a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the surrounding forest. The more strenuous loop to Sand Cave and the Maze takes visitors higher into the Watts Creek and Big Branch watersheds.

      Depending on the time of year, visitors can expect to see a wide range of wildlife and plant species within the largest old-growth forest in the Commonwealth. In addition, a shorter half-mile trail leading along Watts Creek offers a scenic but less strenuous alternative route to enjoy the preserve. Designated parking is available in a lot adjacent to Camp Blanton. A kiosk and signs direct visitors to the trailhead. The preserve is open year round during daylight hours and is limited to foot travel only.

Features - largest old growth forest in Kentucky

Access - loop foot trail (4 miles) up the south face of Pine Mt, foot trail (0.5 miles) along Watts Creek

Facilities - none

Parking - lot adjacent to Camp Blanton

Hazards - steep slopes, venomous snakes, and hazardous trees

Activities - hiking, birding, nature photography and research