Kentucky Tourism in Harlan County

A beautiful spot for Kentucky tourism, Harlan County is about four and a half hours to the southeast of Louisville. It's located in the Eastern Kentucky coal fields that that stretch along the Appalachian Mountains and was began in the 1700's as a log barricade known as Harlan's station. The log stockade was built by pioneer Silas Harlan. There are several mountain systems that run through Harlan County, making it a beautiful Kentucky tourism spot to get away with a day trip from Louisville. Harlan's Big Black mountain is the highest point in the state of Kentucky.

Blanton Forest is the largest old growth forest in Kentucky and one of the oldest in the United States. It is 2, 350 acres of forest and houses Camp Blanton. Camp Blanton is home to the Boyscouts of America and is operated by a private trust. It is also available for rental for family reunions, camping, meetings and events. There is a lake, dining hall and cabins.

In nearby Benham, visitors can view another Kentucky tourism attraction learn about Kentucky coal mining at the Kentucky Coal Mining Museum. Harlan County is also known for beautiful driving and hiking trails like "Little Shepherd Trail", which is a 38 mile narrow road that twists through overlooks and rock outcroppings on top of Pine Mountain.

Kentenia State Forest is also another beautiful Kentucky tourism attraction in Harlan county. The forest is the oldest state owned forest and was given to the state by the Kentenia -Cantron Corporation in 1939. It covers 4, 277 acres and includes the Goss Park Camping Area.

For supplies, Stone Mountain Dock offers Boat rentals, fishing supplies and grocery items while non-camping accomodations can be found at the Holiday Inn Express or at Mount Aire Motel. There is also all types of shopping available from shops like Artist Attic, Abraham Music, Jewels by Jordan and many others. ATV and off road vehicles are popular vehicles to enjoy the many extreme trails available.