Trail Overview

This easy, scenic gravel route in Laurel County winds through dense woodlands and leads drivers past the historic Camp Wildcat Civil War Battlefield.

Photos of Rockcastle Exploring River Bypass

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

This is a very easy gravel road.

History

The route passes through the historic Camp Wildcat Civil War Battlefield, the site of an October 21, 1861 battle. This engagement was one of the earliest of the Civil War and represented the first Union victory on Kentucky soil, where Union forces successfully defended the strategic pass along the Wilderness Road against Confederate forces. Monument markers and interpretive signs are located along the route.

Technical Rating

Jonathan 1806 Adventures

Dec 17, 2025

Open

Hillary Gill

Sep 14, 2025

2023 Ford Bronco

Open

Dusty

Simple gravel road. Restrooms with small parking area on north end.

Andy Kachelmeier

Apr 05, 2025

Open

Muddy/Wet

Austin Shadoan

Sep 21, 2024

2000 Jeep Wrangler

Open

Austin Shadoan

Sep 10, 2024

Temporarily Closed

Closed Gate

Area Currently closed due to KSP search for fugitive involved in the interstate shooting.

WS SS

Feb 18, 2024

Open

Normal

Road recently graveled and in good shape. The river was up too high to cross and there have been big rocks placed on the trail on the opposite side of the river so even if you did cross you couldn't drive out

Scott Gordon

Jan 07, 2024

Open

Brian Lewis

Apr 13, 2023

Open