Outdoor Barbourville
Fish the Cumberland River, paddle Martins Fork Lake, hike the Cumberland Gap, and explore the Appalachian foothills of Knox County.
Top Destinations
Cumberland River
The Cumberland River winds through Knox County offering excellent kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Launch at Thompson Park in Barbourville or access points near Loyall. Known for smallmouth bass, catfish, and rock bass. The annual Cumberland River Run canoe & kayak race launches from Thompson Park.
Martins Fork Lake
Just east of Barbourville, Martins Fork Lake is a serene Army Corps of Engineers lake surrounded by forested hills. Great for fishing (bass, crappie, bluegill), kayaking, and quiet lakeside relaxation. Boat ramps and shoreline access available; no marina, keeping it peaceful.
Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Site
Located just outside Barbourville, this state historic site marks where Dr. Thomas Walker and his party camped in 1750 — believed to be the first Euro-Americans to explore the area. Features a replica of the first cabin in Kentucky, picnic areas, and short hiking trails through Appalachian forest.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
About 35 minutes south of Barbourville, this national park spans the Kentucky-Virginia-Tennessee border. Hike to the Pinnacle Overlook for stunning tri-state views, explore the Cumberland Gap Tunnel, and walk in the footsteps of Daniel Boone and thousands of pioneers on the Wilderness Road. Over 85 miles of trails.
Things to Do
Fishing
Bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill in the Cumberland River, Martins Fork Lake, and stocked creeks. A Kentucky fishing license is required.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Paddle the Cumberland River with multiple access points. The Cumberland River Run race is a highlight each summer.
Hiking
From short nature trails at Dr. Thomas Walker to the 85+ mile trail network at Cumberland Gap, options range from easy walks to ridge-line treks.
Hunting
Knox County offers deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and waterfowl hunting on public and private land (with permission). Kentucky hunting license required.
Seasonal Guide
Spring
Wildflowers bloom; prime turkey hunting and bass pre-spawn fishing.
Summer
Peak kayaking season; Cumberland River Run; lakeside camping.
Fall
Spectacular foliage in the Gap; deer hunting; perfect hiking weather.
Winter
Quiet trails; small game hunting; frost-covered mountain vistas.
Recommended Outdoor Gear for Barbourville
Essential gear for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping in the Appalachian foothills of Knox County, Kentucky.
Ultralight Hiking Daypack 20L
Water-resistant packable daypack for hiking the trails at Cumberland Gap and Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Site.
Shop on AmazonInsulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle 32oz
Stay hydrated on the trail, at the Knox County Fair, or walking downtown Barbourville.
Shop on Amazon10x42 Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
Spot wildlife along the Cumberland River and in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Shop on Amazon4-Person Camping Tent
Roomy dome tent for camping under the stars at Cumberland Falls or Levi Jackson Wilderness Road.
Shop on AmazonWaterproof Hiking Boots
Sturdy waterproof boots for hiking the 85+ miles of trails at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
Shop on AmazonAppalachian Trail Wall Map
A beautiful poster-size map celebrating the Appalachian region we call home.
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