Carter County, Kentucky
Carter County is located in northeastern Kentucky, within the scenic Appalachian foothills. Home to about 27,000 residents, the county has a peaceful rural character, with Grayson serving as the county seat.
Nature is a major attraction in the area, with Carter Caves State Resort Park drawing visitors for hiking, cave exploration, and outdoor recreation. The park’s extensive cave systems and surrounding landscapes make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Grayson Lake is another popular recreational destination, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and water-based activities. Together with the county’s wooded hills and quiet communities, these attractions give Carter County a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying the outdoors.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Carter County |
| County Seat | Grayson |
| Etymology | Named after Colonel William Grayson Carter, a state senator |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Grayson, Olive Hill, Hitchins, Denton, Willard |
| Interstates and Highways | I-64, US-60, KY-1 |
| FIPS Code | 21-043 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 412 sq mi (Land: 409 sq mi; Water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Greenup County (Northeast), Boyd County (East), Lawrence County (Southeast), Elliott County (South), Rowan County (Southwest), Lewis County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Kentucky |
| Coordinates | 38.3169° N, 83.0520° W |
| Major Landmarks | Carter Caves State Resort Park, Grayson Lake State Park, Olive Hill Historical Society Museum |
| Population | Approximately 27,000 |
