Kentucky Nature Preserves

A state nature preserve (SNP) is a legally dedicated area that has been recognized for its natural significance and protected by law for scientific and educational purposes. Dedicated state nature preserves are established solely to protect and preserve rare species, the natural environment, or exceptional natural scenery or environmental education opportunities. They include some of Kentucky's most popular and scenic State Parks, including Natural Bridge and Cumberland Falls Public hiking trails are available when ecologically appropriate, but they are closely regulated to protect the natural integrity of the preserve so that it may be passed on unimpaired to future generations. Some preserves are only open for scientific research at this time. Credit: Kentucky Energy an Environment Cabinet