Barren County, Kentucky
Barren County is located in south-central Kentucky, just a short distance from Mammoth Cave National Park. Glasgow serves as the county seat and sits near the heart of the county.
Despite its name, Barren County is far from barren. The area is filled with rolling hills, farmland, and scenic countryside. Barren River Lake is another major attraction, drawing visitors for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
The county got its name from early settlers who believed the land looked unproductive. They clearly changed their minds over time, as agriculture became an important part of the local economy. Today, Barren County is home to more than 45,000 residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Barren County |
| County Seat | Glasgow |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Glasgow, Cave City, Park City, Hiseville, Eighty Eight |
| Interstates and Highways | I-65, US-31E, KY-90, Cumberland Parkway |
| Etymology | Named for the “barren” landscape discovered by early settlers |
| FIPS Code | 21-009 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 500 sq mi (Land: 488 sq mi; Water: 12 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Hart County (North), Metcalfe County (East), Monroe County (Southeast), Allen County (Southwest), Warren County (West), Edmonson County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Kentucky |
| Coordinates | 36.9704° N, 85.9203° W |
| Major Landmarks | Mammoth Cave National Park, Barren River Lake, Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo |
| Population | Approximately 45,000 |
