Rockcastle County, Kentucky

Located in southeastern Kentucky, Rockcastle County is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and the rolling hills of the Bluegrass region.

Mount Vernon serves as the county seat, with a total population of about 16,000 people. The county takes its name from the Rockcastle River, a scenic waterway offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and more.

Interstate 75 runs through the county. And if you’re a fan of bluegrass music, be sure to check out some of the local festivals. Just don’t expect any electric guitars. Remember, in Rockcastle, “rock” refers to the geology, not the music. Or does it?

CategoryDetails
County NameRockcastle County
County SeatMount Vernon
EtymologyNamed after Rockcastle River, which flows through the county
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesMount Vernon, Brodhead, Livingston, Renfro Valley, Wildie
Interstates and HighwaysI-75, US-25, KY-150
FIPS Code21-203
Total Area (Land and Water)318 sq mi (Land: 317 sq mi; Water: 1 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Garrard County (Northwest), Madison County (North), Lincoln County (West), Jackson County (East), Pulaski County (Southwest), Laurel County (Southeast)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
PopulationApproximately 16,000
StateKentucky
Coordinates37.3580° N, 84.3137° W
Major LandmarksRenfro Valley Entertainment Center, Lake Linville, Rockcastle River Narrows
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