A Guide to Wildlife Management Areas in Kentucky

September 2003

Using This Guide: The areas listed in this guide are arranged west to east and divided into sections based on major watersheds and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources’ wildlife regions: Purchase, Green River, Bluegrass, Northeast and Southeast. Areas with access for mobility impaired permit holders are marked**. The guide uses icons to indicate available facilities, recreation and common species and lists fairly specific directions to each area. Using this guide along with a current Kentucky highway map should help you reach your chosen destination. Maps of some areas are available by calling the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources toll-free at (800) 858-1549, Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

 Vehicles: Misuse of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road vehicles (ORVs) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles has caused a great deal of destruction on wildlife management areas (WMAs). 1ATV use is prohibited on all WMAs. Only licensed, street-legal vehicles can be used, and must remain on a WMA’s established, permanent roadways. If a roadway is gated, no motor vehicles are allowed beyond that point.

 Habitat: Wildlife management practices on these areas provide food, cover and water for a wide variety of species. Plantings and farm crops left standing in the field are important food sources. Brushy areas, unmowed fields and woods provide both natural foods and places for wildlife to hide. Ponds and watering holes supply additional sources of water for terrestrial creatures and provide homes for aquatic and amphibian species.

 Viewing Wildlife: Since wild creatures are more active at dawn and dusk, these are the best times to watch wildlife. The widest variety of species can be seen during spring and fall migrations. Although few of these public areas have developed recreational facilities, wildlife areas are excellent places to go hiking, birding or simply enjoy the outdoors and get back in touch with nature. Kentucky Wildlife Viewing Guide gives descriptions and directions to 66 locations where visitors have reasonable opportunities to view wildlife. The paperback book is available from the Kentucky Afield Gift Shop, Frankfort, state park gift shops and bookstores.

 Hunting Notes: Where hunting is permitted, check the KENTUCKY HUNTING & TRAPPING GUIDE for season dates and other laws. Also, check for signs and bulletin boards on the areas themselves for special regulations or requirements. It’s a good idea for anyone, whether planning to hunt or not, to obtain current hunting information on an area before visiting.

 Purchase Region

 1. REELFOOT LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (2,500 acres): Fulton Co., on KY 94 W. of Hickman; adequate trails within area. Flat river bottomland, mixture of woods and cleared areas. Special hunting regulations and seasons. Observation platform near main entrance to Long Point Refuge off county road 1282 and KY 311. Offering historical and wildlife-related exhibits, the visitor center, located between Samburg and Union City, Tenn. on Hwy. 157 and E of Walnut Log, is open weekends, January-mid-March. For more information contact Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, 4343 Hwy. 157, Union City, TN 38261, (731) 538-2481. Owned by U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

2. OBION CREEK WMA (3,521 acres): Hickman, Fulton, Carlisle cos. Wallace tract (1099 acres) is W. of Hwy. 307 at Obion Creek bridge. Bottomland hardwood swamp. Travis Slough(329 acres), off Hwy. 80 W. of Milburn, has good numbers of waterfowl during wet winters. No developed access. L. E. Schaaf tract (1199 acres), Fulton Co., off Upper Bottom Rd. N. of Hickman. Wintering bald eagles. Letourneau Woods tract, Fulton Co., 870 acres of old growth hardwood forest, seasonal flooding. Access to be developed in 2002; best view from Schaaf tract. (270) 753-6913. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

3. MEADWESTVACO WMA (3,600 acres) Hickman, Carlisle cos., S. of Wickliffe along Mississippi River. From Bardwell take KY 123 to Berkley, watch for area sign. Bottomland hardwood swamp and cropland. Great blue heron rookery. Free hunting permit required. See listing below for additional contact information; (270) 753-6913. Closed Nov. 1-March 15. Owned by MeadWestvaco.

4. WINFORD WMA (237 acres): Carlisle Co., 6 mi. NW. of Bardwell on US 62. No roads or trails within area. Primarily flat creek bottomland with several lakes. Fishing available. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

5. BOATWRIGHT WMA (6,975 acres): 9 units in Ballard, Carlisle cos., Peal Unit (1,724 acres): 4 mi. W. of Barlow on Mounds City Landing Rd. River bottomland with marshlands and cypress swamps; 2 roads, access to 3 oxbow lakes. Special regulations for waterfowl hunting. Upper Blenderman Unit (204 acres): same address as Peal. Special regulations for waterfowl hunting. Zola Taress Unit (100 acres): same address as Peal. Open under statewide regulations. Stevens Unit (98 acres): same address as Peal. Special regulations for waterfowl hunting. Mitchell Unit (245 acres): 1 mi. W. of Wickliffe on US 60. Swan Lake Unit (2,200 acres): 6 mi. NW. of Wickliffe on US 51/60. Primarily bottomland and flood plain area of the Ohio River, with several lakes and some interior gravel roads. Wintering ring-billed and herring gulls, double-crested cormorants, waterfowl, bald eagles. Special regulations for hunting, advance application for waterfowl hunting. Except for designated observation area, Swan Lake Unit closed Oct. 15-March 15 as waterfowl refuge. Public hunting closed when floodwaters prevent safe entry to blinds by wheeled vehicles. Fishing and boating available. Open under statewide regulations, Olmstead Unit (2,096 acres): 4 mi. W. of Barlow on Salle Crice Rd. Closed to deer hunting after Nov.1. Special regulations for waterfowl hunting. Other units include the Stalling Unit (148 acres) and the Perkins Unit (160 acres). Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (270) 224-2244. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

6. BALLARD HUNTING UNIT (400 acres): Ballard Co., 4 mi. S. of Oscar off KY 1105 on Salle Crice Rd. Area is not part of Ballard WMA. No roads or trails within area. (270) 224-2244. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

7. BALLARD WMA (8,473 acres): Ballard Co., 30 mi. W. of Paducah; from Paducah take US 60 17 mi. to LaCenter, take KY 358 N. 5.6 mi. to KY 1105. Turn W. through Bandana, follow KY 1105 to KY 473. Travel 6 mi. to Lodge Rd. Several roads within area. Sloughs and agricultural bottomlands, some hardwood stands. Wintering bald eagles, eagle nests. Fishing in 11 lakes on area. Special regulations for hunting and fishing. Fee, advance application required of deer, waterfowl hunters. Write Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources for additional information. Area closed Oct. 15-March 15. (270) 224-2244. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

8. WEST KENTUCKY WMA (6,463 acres): McCracken Co., 7 mi. from I-24, exit 4, in Paducah, on US 60 in Future City. Turn n. on KY 996 for 3.6 mi. Turn W. on KY 358 for 2.6 mi. to office. Primarily flat terrain, old farms, small woodlots, 500 acres of woodlands. Seven fishing ponds; picnicking, hiking; kennels and stalls for use during field trials. Site of Invitational Quail Championship Field Trial, first Sat. after Thanksgiving, featuring nation’s 12 top dogs. Horseback riding on designated trails only. (270) 488-3233. Owned/leased by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

9. OHIO RIVER ISLANDS WMA (1,375 acres): Livingston Co., Ohio River upstream from Smithland Lock and Dam. Birdsville Island and surrounding river area is a waterfowl refuge closed Oct. 15-March 15; public hunting allowed prior to closure. Twin Sisters, Pryor, Rondeau islands and a large marsh area located between Pryor and Twin Sisters islands provide waterfowl hunting from temporary blinds. (270) 753-6913. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

10. KALER BOTTOMS WMA (1,930 acres): Graves Co., 8 mi. NE. of Mayfield between Hwys. 131, 408 and Tim Owen Rd. Cypress swamps, hardwoods, low terrain throughout. Limited access, especially when bottoms are wet. Swamp rabbit, great blue heron rookery, black vulture roost. No developed facilities. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

11. CLARKS RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (5,000 acres): Marshall Co., along an 18-mile stretch of Clarks River; nearest town is Benton. No established roads or trails. Clarks River is the newest national Wildlife Refuge. Land is still being purchased to complete projected size of 18,000 acres. Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing. (502) 527-5770. Owned by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

12. KENTUCKY LAKE WMA (3,500 acres): Calloway, Marshall, Lyon cos. Public areas consist of islands, mud flats and lowlands at back of bays and a narrow strip along much of Kentucky Lake shoreline. Access by boat and several TVA-access points and rural roads. Fishing and boating on Kentucky Lake. Owned by TVA.

13. BEECHY CREEK WMA (122 acres): Calloway Co. 1 mi. E. of new Concord off Hwy. 444; borders portion of Kentucky Lake WMA area. Bottomland hardwoods, some fields. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

14. LAND BETWEEN the LAKES NATIONAL RECREATIONAL AREA (107,000 acres): Trigg, Lyon cos., between Kentucky and Barkley lakes. Access by KY 453 (The Trace) and KY 80. Many secondary roads and trails within area. Terrain varies from gently rolling to fairly steep; much of area is forested with many clearings, old farm sites, plantings. Special hunting regulations. Scheduled field trials Sept. 1- March 31. For specific information, write Land Between the Lakes, Natural Resource Section, 100 Van Morgan Dr., Golden Pond, KY 42211-9001, or call (270) 924-2065. User permit ($20) required. Horseback riding on designated trails. Also hiking, camping, fishing, boating, nature and educational centers, captive elk and bison herd. Owned by U. S. Forest Service.

15. LAKE BARKLEY WMA (5,429 acres): Trigg, Lyon, Livingston cos. Public lands consist primarily of islands in lake with one maintained as waterfowl refuge. Fishing, boating and other water-related sports. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

16. FORT CAMPBELL MILITARY RESERVATION (85,000 acres): Christian, Trigg cos.; 15 mi. S. of Hopkinsville on US 41A. Hunting permits and information available at Bldg. #6645, near road intersection of Woodlawn and Lafayette. Vast system of inter-post roads, some hard surfaced. Terrain varies from gently rolling to steeply hilly, with a variety of forest wildlife and farm habitat, sinkholes and beaver lakes that attract wood ducks and shorebirds. Trout streams available and 2 lakes with warm water fish species (permit required). Post also provides courses for bird-dog field trials. Special hunting regulations. (270) 798-2175. Owned by U.S. Army.

17. PENNYRILE STATE FOREST (17,000 acres): Christian Co., 8 mi. S. of Dawson Springs. Many trails, roads (some paved) within area. Hilly terrain, primarily timbered. Quality Deer Management: special regulations. Hiking trail. Food, lodging, camping and recreational facilities at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. Fishing in Beshear, Pennyrile lakes. Owned by Ky. Div. of Forestry.

18. TRADEWATER WMA (724 acres): Hopkins-Christian county line, shares boundary with Pennyrile Forest. Access 1 mi. S. of Dawson Springs on KY 109; additional entry points on both sides of road ½ mi. S. of Tradewater River bridge. Steep, hilly terrain, some steep bluffs, almost completely forested. Area under Quality Deer Management regulations. Hiking-birding trail with unique rock overhangs, bluffs, small caves. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

19. JONES-KEENEY WMA (2,250 acres): Caldwell Co., between Princeton and Dawson Springs on US 62. Very few trails, roads within area. Hilly terrain, forested sections, old growth forest, some clearings in bottoms, on ridges. Scenic overlook. Bow and rifle ranges, rules posted. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

20. WHITE CITY WMA (5,472 acres): Hopkins Co., access by gravel road off KY 813, about 3 mi. E. of Morton’s Gap. Level to rolling terrain, woods, wetlands, open fields, abandoned strip mines. Bass, bluegill fishing in Flat Creek wetland complex (can accommodate small johnboats); launching ramp on Pond River for river access; (270) 273-3569 or 3568. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

21. LEE K. NELSON WMA (70 acres): Webster Co., 2 mi. from Dixon, off Robert Gardner Rd. Gently rolling terrain, mostly forested in oak, hickory. Gift to Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources from former wildlife biologist Lee K. Nelson.

22. HIGGINSON-HENRY WMA (5,424 acres): Union Co., 2 mi. E. of Morganfield on KY 56. Rolling hills with hardwood patches, numerous small clearings, wildlife plantings, fire lanes. Quality Deer Management: special regulations. Migratory waterfowl, bald eagles. Hiking on many old roads, 10 mi. of trails; 80-acre lake, launching ramp, 2 smaller lakes, picnic areas. Camping on designated sites only. (270) 389-3580. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

23. SLOUGHS WMA (10,481 acres): 6 units in Henderson, Union cos., Sauerheber Unit: 6.5 mi. NW. of Geneva on KY 268. Up to 30,000 Canada geese and 10,000 ducks winter annually on 1,775-acres refuge, observation platforms, portions closed Oct. 15-March 15. Jenny Hole, Highland Creek units divided by gravel rd., 2.5 mi. W. of Smith Mills;1.5 mi. N. of Uniontown on KY 136. Ash Flats Unit: 3 mi. NE. of Hebbardsville on Mason Landing Rd. Grassy Pond-Powells Lake Unit: 6 mi. N. of Uniontown; 12 mi. W. of Smith Mills on KY 136. Cape Hills Unit: W. access off Hwy. 136 on Martin-Martin Rd. near Smith Mills; E. access off Mill St., Smith Mills. Limited access to all units by gravel roads. Alternating ridges and sloughs, woodlands, brushy areas, open fields. Special hunting regulations. State’s largest great blue heron rookery. (270) 827-2673. Owned/leased by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

24. DAVIESS DEMONSTRATION AREA (72 acres): Daviess Co., E. of Owensboro near Maceo on US 60. Self-guided tour. Flat bottomland, native prairie wildflowers and grasses, small wetland area. Blacktop road to center of area; parking available. Archery deer, turkey hunting only.Wood ducks nest along bordering Pup Creek. (270) 273-3569 or 3568. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources

25. L. B. DAVISON WMA (150 acres): Ohio Co., between Dundee and Hartford on Davidson Station Rd. (off KY 878). Trail through area from old home place to river fields. Hilly terrain, some steep cliffs, almost completely forested, much in virgin hardwoods. Fishing and boating in bordering Rough River. (270) 273-3569 or 3568. Gift to Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources from Mr. L. B. Davison. 

26. PEABODY WMA (60,000 acres): Ohio, Muhlenberg cos.; numerous access points from KY 70, KY 369 and US 62. Additional Muhlenberg Co. property is located at Pond River and Green River N. of Hwy 70 and S. of KY 176. Ohio Co. property is located mostly S. of West Kentucky Pkwy. and between the Green River and KY 269. Numerous access points from KY 369. Gibralter tract (Muhlenberg Co.) has a waterfowl refuge that is closed to all activities year-round. Sinclair tract contains a waterfowl refuge around Goose Lake that is closed from Oct. 15-March 15. In Ohio Co. the waterfowl refuge around South and Island lakes is also closed from Oct. 15-March 15. Rough terrain from swampland to high ridges and deep pits; primarily reclaimed coal-mined land with numerous excavated ridges and water-filled strip mine pits (visitors should be wary). Excellent birding and fishing opportunities. Horseback riding on trails in Muhlenberg Co. (Vogue tract) and Ohio Co. (Ken Hopewell tract) offering a ½mile ride in each county. User permit ($12.50) required, can be purchased wherever Kentucky hunting and fishing licenses are sold. (270) 273-3568 or 3569. Owned/leased by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

27. YELLOWBANK WMA (6,000 acres in 4 tracts): Breckinridge Co., near Ohio River and Meade Co. line; 20 mi. N. of Hardinsburg on KY 259; 20 mi. W. of Brandenburg off KY 144 to KY 259.. Steep to moderate sloping woodlands, hardwood forest and flat river bottom farmlands. Quality Deer Management: special regulations. Horseback riding on designated roads and trails only (approx. 25 mi.) No off-road/field/woods horse use. Hiking trails (.6 mi., 2.5 mi. loops) on tract 3 across from information station on Hwy 259. Self-guided demonstration area on tract 3 features habitat types, prairie grasses, wetlands. 20-stop archery trail located at end of campground is open to public. No broadhead use, field tips only. Archery trail (¾ mi. loop) is also nice hiking trail, all targets are off to the right of the trail for safe walking. Fishing in area ponds and Yellowbank Creek; ramp at creek, access to Ohio River. Visitors must observe posted area regulations; areas within Tract 1 closed Oct. 15-March 15. Waterfowl refuge marked by signs. Primitive camping on designated site only. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (270) 547-6856. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

28. ROUGH RIVER LAKE WMA (3,425 land acres at summer pool): Portions of lake shoreline, Breckinridge, Grayson cos.; access by KY 737, 259, 108 and 79 and by boat. Rough terrain and high banks limit access to established areas. Wooded, with a few cleared fields. Hunters use care: areas surrounding public lands are heavily developed. Laurel Branch Campground open year-round; no camping on the management area. Camping, swimming, overnight accommodations at Rough River Dam State Resort Park, fishing and boating in lake. (270) 746-7130. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

29. NOLIN RIVER LAKE WMA (5,210 land acres at summer pool): Portion of lake shoreline, Grayson, Edmonson, Hart cos.; access by KY 88, 1214, 694 and 728, with many secondary roads leading to within a short distance of lake. Terrain is rolling to rugged, with a mixture of wooded areas and cleared fields, some wildlife food plots. Fishing, boating, other water sports on lake. Hunting in small isolated areas, mostly accessible by boat. Nolin State Park campground open year-round. (270) 746-7130. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

30. BARREN RIVER LAKE WMA (10,100 land acres at summer pool): Barren, Allen cos., access from US 31E and KY 87, 98, 100 and 252, and by lake. Hilly to gently sloping terrain, with woodlands and cleared bottomlands maintained for wildlife. Peninsula Unit, Grass and Narrows islands open to primitive weapons hunting only. Tail-Water Campground open year-round; no camping on management area. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (270) 646-5167. Boating, fishing on Barren Lake, camping, golf, horseback riding, swimming, lodge accommodations at nearby Barren River Lake State Resort Park. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

31. FORT KNOX MILITARY RESERVATION (109,068 acres): Hardin, Bullitt, Meade cos., 30 mi. S. of Louisville on US 31W. About 60 percent of area open to hunting under special regulations. All users of the area must check in at Hunt Control Headquarters, Bldg. 112, on 11th Ave. and Binter St. Since this is an active military reservation, access is only by a strictly controlled and rigidly enforced system. Approximately 120 mi. of roads within area; maps required for each hunter. Rolling upland, broad ridge tops, narrow valleys with steep to sloping cliffs. Hardwood forests with associated open areas. Trout stream and several lakes available for fishing. Hunting and fishing permits required. Special regulations apply. Picnic and camping area at Camp Carleson. Area also features U.S. Gold Depository and Patton Museum. (502) 624-2712. Owned by U.S. Army.

32. JOHN C. WILLIAMS WMA (384 acres): Nelson Co., 2 mi. SE. of Boston. From Bluegrass Parkway, take Exit 10, go north on Hwy. 52 about 1 mi. to area on east side of Hwy. 52 after crossing Beech Fork. Flat terrain with open fields, wetlands, moist soil unit. Fishing opportunity in Beech Fork. (502) 477-9024. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

33. TAYLORSVILLE LAKE WMA (10,571 acres): Spencer, Anderson, Nelson cos., access off Hwys. 44 and 248 E. of Taylorsville and by lake (4 boat ramps on lake). Hilly to gently sloping woodland terrain with open ridge tops. Flat Salt River bottoms, steep hillsides. Waterfowl refuge E. of Van Buren boat ramp. Wildlife viewing area near state park office. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (502) 477-9024. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

34. CENTRAL KENTUCKY WMA (1,847 acres): Madison Co., 9 m. SE. of Richmond, from US 421 take Dreyfus Rd. (also called Bearwallow Rd.) at Kingston. Country road (gravel) through center. Rolling to flat terrain with fields, wooded areas. Oak-hickory timber stands, cedar thickets. Fishing in area ponds for largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish. Area used most for field trials, bird dog training, hiking, birding, trap and skeet shooting. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. Adm. bldg. available for conservation club groups. Berea, Fort Boonesborough State Park and Daniel Boone National Forest are nearby. (859) 986-4130. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

35. BLUE GRASS ARMY DEPOT (14,596 acres): Madison Co., 4.5 miles south of Richmond on US 421. Rolling terrain with open fields and some woodlands along streams and other low areas. Two lakes available for fishing. Since this is an active military reservation, access is only by a strictly controlled and rigidly enforced system; special regulations apply. (859) 625-6420. Owned by U.S. Army.

36. DR. JAMES C. SALATO WILDLIFE EDUCATION CENTER (132 acres): Franklin Co., on KDFWR Game Farm 3 mi. W. of Frankfort on US 60. Grounds open year-round, sunrise-sunset; 2 fishing lakes, regulations posted. Paved parking, universal access, picnic tables. Call (502) 564-7863 to reserve pavilions. Official watchable wildlife viewing site plus live native wildlife displays at Salato Wildlife Education Center. Free admission. Open Tuesday-Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day; scheduled education programs throughout year. Information Center: (800) 858-1549, M-F, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Owned by and home to central offices of Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

37. T. N. SULLIVAN WMA (155 acres): Franklin Co., 5.1 miles N. of Frankfort, off US 127 on Hwy. 1262 (Sullivan Lane). Old fields and pastures. Provides foot access to Elkhorn Creek. (502) 535-6335. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

38. JOHN A. KLEBER WMA (2,605 acres): Owen, Franklin cos., on KY 368 (Cedar Rd.) between US 127 and KY 227. Steep hillsides, narrow ridge tops and floodplains with a combination of woods, brush and grasslands. Fishing in small pond. Site of annual Christmas Bird Count by Frankfort Bird Club and Frankfort Audubon Society. (502) 535-6335. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

39. DR. JAMES R. RICH WMA (1,567 acres): Owen Co., accessed from KY 227, KY 1474 and Red Oak Rd. Steep hillsides, ridge tops and floodplains with a combination of woods, brush and grasslands. (502) 535-6335. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

40. KENTUCKY RIVER WMA (1,604 acres): Henry, Owen cos., 1 mi. W. of Gest (near Lock 3) on Hwy. 561; ½ mi. S. of Gest; I mi. S. of Gratz on Brown’s Bottom Rd.; 4 mi. S. of Gratz on KY 355. River flood plain and associated uplands, old fields and oak-hickory forest. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (502) 535-6335. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

41. TWIN EAGLE WMA (166 acres): Owen Co., 4 mi. NE. of Perry Park on KY 355. Steep Kentucky River terrace terrain with open land, sloughs, steep wooded hillsides. Fishing opportunities. (502) 535-6335. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

42. CURTIS GATES LLOYD WMA (1,179 acres): Grant Co., ½ mi. SE. of Crittenden; from I-75 take Crittenden exit, follow US 25 S. to left turn across railroad tracks to area. Level to rolling terrain with some steep hills, fields, woods. Nature trail through old hardwoods, one of state’s oldest virgin tree stands. Trap, skeet, rifle and archery ranges. Universal access to small fishing lake. Adm. bldg. may be used by clubs, (859) 428-2262. Fishing lakes, campgrounds nearby. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

43. MULLINS WMA (266 acres): Kenton Co., 1 mi. N. of Crittenden on Eads Rd. Level to rolling terrain, some steep hills, woods, grasslands. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (859) 428-2262. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

44. DR. NORMAN and MARTHA ADAIR WMA (631 acres): Boone Co., US 127 N. to KY 338 E., turn right onto Big Bone Church Rd., parking behind Big Bone Baptist Church. Wooded to open rolling land with some bottomland. Big Bone Lick State Park nearby. (859) 428-2262. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources and Adair family.

45. CLAUDE CUMMINS PROPERTY (100 acres): Mason Co. From AA Hwy. turn N. onto Hwy. 3071, go 2.5 mi. to left turn onto Hwy. 3056, travel 100 ft. to right turn onto Pickett Lane, go 0.3 mi. to parking area. Open to limited hunting as determined by the Mason County Judge-Executive's Office. (606) 564-6706. Owned by Mason County. 

46. OHIO RIVER ISLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (1,450 acres in 12 islands, 2 islands in Ky.): Open during daylight hours for various outdoor recreation. Access by boat. Seasonal hunting on some islands; contact Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge, P. O. Box 1811, Parkersburg, WV 26102; (304) 422-0752. Owned by U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

47. LEWIS COUNTY WMA (1,161 acres): Lewis Co. Located along KY 8, ten miles west of South Shore, KY. Half of area is forested or shrublands and the other half active croplands. Bulk of WMA is bottomlands situated along the Ohio River. Backwater flooding creates seasonal wetland areas. Open to wildlife watching, photography, fishing and hunting. No centerfire rifles permitted for deer hunting. (606) 686-3312. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

73. DANIEL BOONE NATIONAL FOREST (670,000 acres; 141,457 acres in the Northeast Region including Pioneer Weapons WMA.) The majority of the forest lies in the Southeast Region. See SOUTHEAST REGION, area 73, page 23.

48. FLEMING WMA (2,070 acres): Fleming Co., from Flemingsburg, go N. on Hwy. 57 to Hwy. 3301, take Hwy. 3301 to Hwy. 559, turn left toward Wallingford. Two entrances; watch for area signs. Oak-hickory woods, some croplands, woodland openings. Opportunities for fishing, hiking. (859) 289-2564. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

49. CLAY WMA (5,790 acres): Nicholas and Fleming cos., 8 mi. NE. of Carlisle on KY 32. Take KY 3315 (Cassidy Creek Rd.) to area. Two entrances; watch for area signs. Steep to rolling terrain; woodlands, 1,700 cleared acres; Marietta Booth tract in Fleming Co. (800 acres). Old roads, trails and miles of maintained roads. Fishing opportunities. Boat ramp on Licking River, eastern border. (859) 289-2564. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

50. PIONEER WEAPONS WMA (7,610 acres): Bath, Menifee cos., take Hwy. 211 S. of Salt Lick to FS Rd. 129 and travel it to area. Boat access from Cave Run Lake. Scenic Zilpo Rd. on area provides access to Cave Run Lake; access center area by FR 918 (Tater Knob Rd.) Almost completely forested with scattered openings. Rough terrain with some gently sloping areas on ridge tops/creek valleys. Trails and miles of maintained roads; view from restored fire tower. Camping permitted, check with U.S. Forest Service. Hunting limited to longbow, crossbow and muzzle-loading firearms only. One of few areas in nation where crossbow hunting is permitted. For hunting information contact Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources; additional information available from U.S. Forest Service, 1700 Bypass Rd., Winchester, KY 40391; (606) 745-3100. Owned by U.S. Forest Service. 

51. TYGARTS STATE FOREST (800 acres): Carter Co., W. of and adjacent to Carter Caves State Resort Park off KY 182; county road on west edge of area, also accessible by short hike from state park. Hilly with some gently sloping ridge tops, forested in hardwoods. No developed/marked roads/trails. Lodging, recreational facilities at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Owned by Ky. Div. of Forestry.

52. GRAYSON LAKE WMA (10,598 acres in land at summer pool): Carter, Elliott cos., 7 mi. S. of Grayson, can be reached by KY 7, KY 1496 and by boat. Few primitive interior roads. Mainly hilly and steep, with some gently sloping upland areas and fairly flat creek bottoms. Mostly forested, primarily in hardwoods, with openings in most bottoms and upland flats. Hiking on 20-mi. marked trail. Hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake. Horseback trails, campground with water and electrical hookup at adjacent Grayson Lake State Park, (606) 474-6856. Managed by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources (local office: (606) 474-8535). Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, (606) 474-5815. 

53. YATESVILLE LAKE WMA (17,370 acres in land at summer pool): Lawrence Co., 15 mi. S. of I-64. Take Hwy. 32 to Blaine or Hwy. 3 from Louisa. Hilly, wooded terrain with fairly broad bottoms. Primarily hardwood forest with significant wetlands, openings. Opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake; hiking on marked trails (approximately 15 mi.). Managed by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife (regional office: (606) 686-3312). Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, (606) 686-2412. 

54. PAINTSVILLE LAKE WMA (12,103 acres in land at summer pool): Johnson, Morgan cos., approximately 4 mi. NW. of Paintsville on old Hwy. 460. Access by several perimeter roads. Rolling hills, two-thirds in hardwood forest, some old fields, crop fields. Quality Deer Management: special regulations. Opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. (606) 297-6312. Managed by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

55. DEWEY LAKE WMA (9,870 acres in land at summer pool): Floyd Co., shoreline portions, 6 mi. E. of Prestonsburg on KY 194 or by boat. Extremely steep and rugged; forested, primarily in hardwoods, with scattered openings. Quality Deer Management: special regulations. Opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake. Camping allowed only in corps-maintained campgrounds. Lodging, recreational activities, camping at nearby Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. (606) 789-4521. Managed by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

56. FISHTRAP LAKE WMA (10,691 acres in lake at summer pool): Pike Co., shoreline portions. Travel US 460 S. of Pikeville to KY 1789 to dam area, KY 1499 to upper lake. Can access by boat. Very steep, rough terrain with narrow ridges and valleys; completely forested, primarily in hardwoods, with scattered openings. Opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. Managed by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

57. GEORGE WASHINGTON-JEFFERSON NATIONAL FOREST (961 acres; 116 acres are in Pike County. The rest lies in the Southeast Region). See SOUTHEAST REGION, area 57.

Southeast Region 

57. GEORGE WASHINGTON-JEFFERSON NATIONAL FOREST (961 acres): Two portions of this national forest extend into Ky., 845 acres in Letcher Co. on KY 932 and 116 acres in Pike Co., access also by trail up Vanover Hollow from KY 197. Both tracts on the Kentucky-Virginia border offer extremely steep and mountainous terrain. For camping check with owner. Owned by U.S. Forest Service. 

58. HENSLEY-PINE MOUNTAIN WMA (6,000 acres): Letcher Co., take Little Shepherd Trail (Trail 1679), 5 mi. SW. of Whitesburg off US 119. Mountainous and steep, with narrow ridges and numerous rock outcroppings, entirely forested in mixed hardwoods. Sightseeing, hiking, on Little Shepherd Trail. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

59. CARR CREEK LAKE WMA (2,849 acres): Knott Co., 20 mi. E. of Hazard on KY 15. Rough, mountainous terrain, primarily forested with big hardwoods, some brushy areas. Camping allowed in corps-maintained campgrounds only. Fishing, boating at Carr Creek Lake. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, (606) 642-3308.

60. ADDINGTON ENTERPRISES WMA (16,000 acres): Breathitt, Knott, Perry cos. From Hwy. 80 between Hazard and Hindman, take Hwy. 476 W. about 3 mi. to Ary; turn right on Hwy. 1087 (Ball’s Fork) and travel approximately 2-3 mi. to left turn onto uphill gravel access road. Sign at base of hill says "Coal Truck Traffic Only," but temporarily, this is the only access to the WMA. Use caution on this road. Addington Enterprises and Robinson Forest WMAs are the result of a unique partnership of Addington Enterprises, the University of Kentucky and the Ky. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Surface-mined and forested land. Numerous songbirds and other forest wildlife. User permit ($12.50) required; also valid for Robinson Forest WMA. Permit and area map available from local sellers of sport licenses and from the KDFWR’s central office in Frankfort. Owned by Addington Enterprises, (606) 378-3474.

61. ROBINSON FOREST (15,000 acres): Breathitt, Knott and Perry cos. From Jackson, travel S. on Hwy. 15 to Lost Creek; turn E. on Hwy. 476 and travel approximately 8 mi. to left turn onto gravel Buckhorn Creek Rd., proceed approximately 3 mi. to Camp Robinson (UK work station) on Clemons Fork Rd., or from Hwy. 80 between Hazard and Hindman, turn W. onto Hwy. 476 to Breathitt Co. line, travel about 1 mi. to right turn onto gravel Buckhorn Creek Rd., proceed as stated above. Robinson Forest and Addington Enterprises WMAs are the result of a unique partnership of the University of Kentucky, Addington Enterprises and the Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. Unique example of an old growth forest ecosystem on the Cumberland Plateau. Numerous songbirds and other forest species. A 10,000-acre block is refuged. Remaining acreage in 3 blocks is open to public hunting. User permit ($12.50) required; also valid for Addington Enterprises WMA. See previous listing about obtaining permit. (606) 378-3474. Owned by the University of Kentucky.

62. BUCKHORN LAKE WMA (3,480 acres): Lake shoreline in Perry Co. KY 15 and KY 28 W from Hazard, KY 257 N. from Hyden; from Daniel Boone Pky. take Hyden exit, turn left; 2 old roads follow lake shore; primary access by boat. Mountainous terrain, primarily forested with some open land in bottoms. Picnicking, swimming, boating facilities at Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (606) 398-7154.

63. REDBIRD WMA (25,529 acres): Leslie and Clay cos., 7 mi. W of Hyden. Hilly to steep with gentle slopes in bottomlands and on ridge tops; mostly forested with approximately 100 acres of openings and 25 mi. of improved hiking trails. No developed facilities. Mobility impaired access to permit holders on designated area. For camping check with owner. Within Daniel Boone National Forest. Owned by U.S. Forest Service.

64. BEECH CREEK WMA (1,260 acres): Clay Co., 4.5 mi. NE of Manchester on Beech Creek and Littleton roads. Sloping hills, ridge top flats, narrow valleys primarily in hardwood forests with some overgrown fields in bottoms. No roads within area. Fishing in 34-acre Bert Combs Lake for trout, channel catfish, bass, crappie, bluegill. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

65. KENTENIA STATE FOREST (3,624 acres): Harlan Co., take US 421, 3.5 mi. N. from intersection with US 119 to Trail 1679 (Little Shepherd Trail; only road through area). Mountainous, steep terrain, with narrow ridge tops and numerous rock outcroppings; completely forested, primarily in hardwoods. Also sightseeing and hiking on Little Shepherd Trail. Owned by Ky. Div. of Forestry.

66. CRANKS CREEK WMA (2,167 acres): Harlan Co., 15 mi. SE. of Harlan on Stone Mountain Rd. (off US 421). No roads within area. Mountainous, extremely steep terrain with long, deep hollows, heavily forested, primarily in hardwoods. No camping. Fishing in Herb Smith Lake; rental boats available at Stone Mountain Boat Dock. Picnicking at adjoining Stone Mountain, a scenic gorge area. The 600-acre Smith-Young tract (a gift from Mr. Phillip Smith and Mack Young) connects the original tract with the 190-acre Hedrick tract (gift from Herman Hedrick), which includes the unique wagon road tunnel at the top of Stone Mountain. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

67. MARTINS FORK LAKE WMA (1,394 acres): Harlan Co., From Harlan take US 421 to Hwy. 987, approximately 4 mi. to lake. Mountainous terrain, forested primarily in second growth hardwoods. No roads within area. Fishing, boating in 340-acre Martins Fork Lake. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

68. BEGLEY WMA (20,000 acres): Bell, Harlan and Leslie cos. From Pineville, take Hwy 66 E for approximately 1.5 miles; turn right on Hwy 221 (Straight Creek) and travel approximately 16 miles to Big Run Road on the left at the Harlan County line, or travel another 2.5 miles to the Peter’s Branch road on the left. Begley WMA is the result of a cooperative agreement between Begley Properties, LLC and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Reclaimed surface mined and forested land. Active surface mine sites, deep mines and the coal washing facility are off limits to the public. Owned by Begley Properties, LLC.

69. SHILLALAH CREEK WMA (2,640 acres): Bell and Harlan cos., along Brush Mountain N. of Cumberland Gap national Historic Park. From Pineville, take US 119 N. approximately 10 mi. to Hwy. 987, then S. to Cubage to Mill Branch-Hensley Flats Rd. (undeveloped road requires 4WD); from Hwy. 119, take Hwy. 1344 to end, turn left onto Hwy. 217, travel ¼ mi. to Park Service road. Mature forest, extremely rugged, steep terrain, many high cliffs. Fishing opportunities for brook trout. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

70. KENTUCKY RIDGE FOREST WMA (3,600 acres): Bell Co., 4 mi. W. of Pineville on KY 92, borders Kentucky Ridge State Forest. Access roads closed except during open hunting seasons. Mountainous terrain, primarily forested with some early succession stages on reclaimed mining land. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources and Ky. Div. of Forestry.

71. KENTUCKY RIDGE STATE FOREST (11,363 acres): Bell Co., 5 mi. SW. of Pineville on KY 190; fire trails provide limited access to interior of area. Mountainous terrain, primarily forested. Recreational opportunities and lodging at Pine Mountain State Resort Park; many scenic overlooks in area. Owned by Ky. Div. of Forestry.

72. MILL CREEK WMA (13,558 acres): Jackson Co., 2 mi. S of McKee. Primarily hilly with steep slopes and long, narrow ridge tops, with flats only in bottoms and on tops of ridges. Mostly forested with approximately 30 acres of openings. No developed facilities. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. For camping check with owner. Owned by U.S. Forest Service.

73. DANIEL BOONE NATIONAL FOREST (670,000 acres): From Tenn. line in McCreary Co. N. to Fleming and Lewis cos. Many US, state and county roads lead into and across area; forest roads, marked hiking trails in many sections. Primarily mountainous with many sections quite steep and rugged, but with some fairly flat river and creek bottoms and ridge tops. Migratory waterfowl, bald eagles often seen around Cave Run and Laurel lakes. Many trout streams, small lakes throughout, several rivers offer float fishing. Several recreational areas maintained by U.S. Forest Service offer camping, picnicking, hiking, etc. Maps, additional information available from U. S. Forest Service, Winchester, KY 40391. NOTE: Much land within forest boundaries is still privately owned and permission should be obtained before entering these private holdings. Owned by U. S. Forest Service. 

74. CANE CREEK WMA (6,672 acres): Laurel Co., approximately 15 mi. W. of London. Access by interior roads. Primarily hilly, steep terrain, mostly forested with only a few openings. No developed facilities. For camping check with owner. Within Daniel Boone National Forest. Owned by U.S. Forest Service. 

75. BEAVER CREEK WMA (17, 347 acres): McCreary and Pulaski Counties., 1 mi. N. of Greenwood off US 27 to Bauer A Rd. Gravel road through center, several ridge and valley dirt trails within area. Steep, mountainous terrain in mixed hardwoods, approximately 150 acres of open fields. Opportunities for trout fishing and sightseeing. Within Daniel Boone National Forest. Beaver Creek Wilderness Area within WMA. No developed facilities. Area is under quality deer management regulations. For camping, check with owner. Owned by U.S. Forest Service. KDFWR regional office (606) 376-8083.

76. BIG SOUTH FORK NATIONAL RIVER and RECREATION AREA (55,000 acres): McCreary Co., US 27 S., then W. on KY 92 to regional office in Stearns. Majority of area is in Tenn. and exceeds 55,000 acres. Extremely mountainous with steep cliffs, deep gorges. Camping, hiking near South Fork of Cumberland River; canoeing, fishing. For map, additional information, contact Big South Fork national River and Recreation Area, 4564 Leatherwood Rd., Oneida, TN 37841; (423) 569-9778 or Ky. Visitor Center, (606) 376-5073. Owned by National Park Service.

77. LAKE CUMBERLAND WMA (39,484 acres in land at summer pool): Lake shoreline in Pulaski, Russell, Wayne, Clinton cos. Fishing in Poynter, Clifty, Coldwater creeks: 10 mi. W. of Somerset on Hwy. 80, then 7 mi. on Piney Grove Rd.; Caney Fork Creek: 8 mi. NE. of Jamestown on KY 619; many other access points, roads and trails around lake. Gently sloping creek bottoms to steep ridges, hardwood forests, old farmlands, wildlife plantings. Fishing and hiking. Opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, birding on lake. Mobility impaired access to permit holders in designated area. For camping, check with owner. Camping facilities and horseback riding trails available at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Fish and Wildlife regional office: (606) 376-8083. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park and General Burnside State Park are nearby. Owned by U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

78. DALE HOLLOW LAKE WMA (3,130 acres): Lake shoreline in Cumberland, Clinton cos. Access at end of Scott-Finley Rd. off Hwy. 449 and end of Casey Branch Rd. off Hwy. 61 and by boat. Terrain varies from gently rolling creek bottoms to steep ridges. Fishing, boating; camping, recreational facilities at Dale Hollow State Resort Park. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, (931) 243-3136. 

79. MUD CAMP CREEK WMA (600 acres): Cumberland Co., 5½ mi. W. of Burkesville on KY 90, then left 4 mi. on Hwy. 100 to Wisdom Rd. Access off Wisdom Rd. on old county road by wading Mud Camp Creek. Terrain varies from steep, narrow forested ridges to narrow valleys. Approximately 40 acres of open land along Cumberland River. No maintained roads or developed facilities. No vehicles allowed. Fishing, hiking. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

80. R. F. TARTER WMA (1,300 acres): Adair, Russell cos. Access from Damron Creek Rd. in northeast Adair Co.: from Hwy 206 take Dunville Rd. 2.6 mi., turn right on Damron Creek Rd. and travel 2.4 mi. to WMA; or in northern Russell Co., travel 3.8 mi. on Damron Creek Rd. from Hwy 127. Terrain is steep with broad, forested ridges and narrow valleys. Approximately 30 acres of open land along Damron Creek Rd. No maintained roads or developed facilities. Variety of songbirds and reptiles. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources. 

81. DENNIS-GRAY WMA (70 acres): Adair Co., borders Green River Lake. Access on Hwy. 206,1 mi. E. of Hwy. 206/76 intersection, and on Hwy. 551, 3 mi. N. Of Hwy. 551/76 intersection. (270) 465-5039. Owned by Ky. Dept. Fish and Wildlife Resources.

82. GREEN RIVER LAKE WMA (20,500 acres): Taylor, Adair cos., 10 mi. S. of Campbellsville along shoreline of Green River Lake. Gently rolling terrain with flat bottoms and ridge tops. Mixed hardwoods with cleared areas in agricultural crops and wildlife food plots. Area under Quality Deer Management regulations. Camping in designated areas only. KDFWR district office: (270) 465-5039. Boating, fishing at Green River Lake State Park. Owned by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.