Bath County, Kentucky

Bath County is located in eastern Kentucky, roughly an hour from Lexington. Around 13,000 residents call the county home, with Owingsville serving as the county seat.

The county takes its name from the mineral springs that were once popular with visitors. Cave Run Lake is another major attraction, drawing people for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.

Part of the Daniel Boone National Forest stretches across the county, providing plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. Tobacco farming has long been part of the local landscape, adding to the county’s agricultural character. Just remember—if you’re visiting, it’s probably best to follow local smoking rules.

CategoryDetails
County NameBath County
County SeatOwingsville
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesOwingsville, Sharpsburg, Salt Lick, Olympia Springs
Interstates and HighwaysI-64, US-60, KY-36, KY-211
EtymologyNamed for the natural springs believed to have healing properties
FIPS Code21-011
Total Area (Land and Water)284 sq mi (Land: 279 sq mi; Water: 5 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Fleming County (North), Rowan County (East), Menifee County (Southeast), Montgomery County (Southwest), Bourbon County (West), Nicholas County (Northwest)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
StateKentucky
Coordinates38.1404° N, 83.7193° W
Major LandmarksDaniel Boone National Forest, Cave Run Lake, Bath County Historical Society Museum
PopulationApproximately 13,000
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