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Access Site KY

Trace Branch Ramp

Middle Fork Kentucky River - Buckhorn Lake Middle Fork Kentucky River Middle Fork Kentucky River

Source: kentucky_department_of_fish_and_wildlife_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Hyden, KY
County: Leslie County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 37.27202000, -83.37056000
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
**Location & Access**
Trace Branch Boat Ramp is located off Campbell Creek Road, approximately 8 miles southwest of Krypton in Leslie County. The ramp provides access to Buckhorn Lake on the Middle Fork Kentucky River in the Cumberland Plateau. From Hyden, follow directions toward Bull Creek Road; detailed directions are available from Trace Branch Campground (606-672-3670).

**Facilities & Paddling Conditions**
The ramp is situated at Trace Branch Campground, which offers shaded and open areas along the scenic Appalachian landscape. Buckhorn Lake is known for calm, sheltered paddling conditions ideal for kayakers and canoeists. The area sees relatively light fishing pressure and is popular with anglers targeting white crappie, trout, and bluegill. A full-service marina at nearby Buckhorn Lake State Park offers additional amenities including fuel and supplies. Camping is available at Trace Branch Campground (reservable through Recreation.gov) as well as at Buckhorn Campground within 10 miles.

**Before You Go**
Call ahead at 606-672-3670 to confirm the ramp is open and accessible, as seasonal closures may apply. The rugged Cumberland Plateau terrain makes this a scenic destination for a paddling trip, but plan accordingly with supplies and navigation.
Federal Facility Information
606-672-3670 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
The Trace Branch Campground, located on Buckhorn Lake, is a great launchpad for outdoor activities in Kentucky's lush Cumberland Plateau. The facility features plenty of shade and open grassy areas for spreading out and enjoying the landscape of the Appalachian Mountain Range.Recreation
Buckhorn lake offers ideal conditions for anglers including seclusion from fishing pressure and boat...

Overview
The Trace Branch Campground, located on Buckhorn Lake, is a great launchpad for outdoor activities in Kentucky's lush Cumberland Plateau. The facility features plenty of shade and open grassy areas for spreading out and enjoying the landscape of the Appalachian Mountain Range.Recreation
Buckhorn lake offers ideal conditions for anglers including seclusion from fishing pressure and boat traffic, producing some of the best muskie fishing in the area. With comfortable water temperatures,swimming and water skiing are popular in summer months and hikers are encouraged to take advantage of the area's many miles of trails.Facilities
Trace Branch Campground boasts mostly waterfront campsites with electric and water hookups. Amenities include a shower house, playground, horseshoe pits, and a convenient fishing area.
Natural Features
Buckhorn Lake is situated in the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Kentucky. The rugged plateau landscape is deeply traversed by a series of narrow, winding valleys separated by steep watersheds with branching streams. The Kentucky River feeds the lake, originating in the southeast of the state and flowing generally northwestward.
Nearby Attractions
Nearby destinations include the Lilley Cornett Woods, Daniel Boone National Forest, Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Red River Gorge Geological Area.

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Nearby Campgrounds (2 within 10 miles)
TRACE BRANCH CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
BUCKHORN CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Nearby Recreation Areas
Buckhorn Lake Located within
Amenities
parking
restrooms