Explore South/Central Kentucky: Barren, Taylor & Surrounding Counties

From the unique terrain of massive caves, scenic lakes and peaceful pastures, to welcoming small towns and rich history, South and Central Kentucky offer plenty for residents and new visitors alike.

These are the regions United Country Real Estate | Down Home Properties calls home. From our Barren County office in Glasgow in the south, and another office about an hour’s drive northeast of there in Campbellsville (Taylor County), we help clients buy and sell houses, land, recreational property and other lifestyle and rural real estate.

Let’s take a closer look at the adventures, attractions and overall appeal of Kentucky’s central and south-central areas.

Glasgow, Campbellsville and other cities and towns throughout Kentucky’s central and southern areas all share a storied history marked by many events. Some of this history had a national impact, some just made a local mark … but all was significant in the scope of time.

Glasgow, Ky., became a city in 1809 and much of the architecture of that time still stands highlighted by the colonial, federal and Victorian homes throughout town. The Civil War also left its mark on the region with Fort Williams as a must-see tourist spot.

Campbellsville was founded in 1807 and has an entire district dedicated to the legacy of the city. This includes sites such as the prohibition era First Street Brewery, and the Merchant Tower, previously known as The Merchant Hotel. Both are great examples of the kind of historic preservation you’ll find here.

Immerse yourself in all the beauty Kentucky’s southern and central regions have to offer by exploring the great outdoors. Home to some of the most impressive and unique natural landmarks in the United States, these areas – within the state’s Pennyroyal Plateau, or the “Pennyrile” to locals – are ideal for anyone who loves outdoor activities and adventures.

The Brigadoon State Nature Preserve in Frankfurt features 92 acres of mature trees and wildflowers, trails up and down the ravines, and gorgeous birds and animals awaiting eager nature photographers. Campbellsville’s Green River Lake State Park along the same-named lake is a favorite family spot for hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping … and of course, fishing for bass, walleye and muskie.

Close to Glasgow, Barren River Lake State Resort Park in Lucas is another popular place, with an 18-hole golf course, sports facilities and a restaurant, as well as all the usual recreational park offerings.

And be sure to check out Mammoth Cave National Park, one of the best in the country. It features the world’s longest-known cave system with more than 420 miles of surveyed passageways. Discover thousands of years of human history via cave tours, or watch for diverse plant and animal life as you canoe the Green and Nolin Rivers or navigate 80 plus miles of trails by foot, bicycle or horse.

The towns that make up a lot of central and southern Kentucky may be small in size and population, but the rich culture, educational opportunities, local events and other attractions in these areas are all alive and well.

Those seeking higher education might consider one of the many colleges and universities here, such as Western Kentucky University, home of the Hilltoppers. Located in Bowling Green (with regional campuses in Glasgow, Owensboro and Elizabethtown-Fort Knox) the main campus is only 65 miles north of Nashville, and has great athletics programs, and well-ranked business, history, engineering and other degree programs. Another standout is Campbellsville University, a Christian-centered college that values one-on-one teaching and stewardship in community.

Community events are always a big deal across Kentucky, and that includes Glasgow’s Highland Games, an annual celebration of Scottish culture and heritage based on the namesake city of its founder. Operating since 1934, the city’s Plaza Theatre is another place to be for many local events, including plays, concerts, and other group gatherings.

If shops, boutiques and local eats are your thing, you’ll find plenty of options in Barren County, mostly in Glasgow and Cave City. But we can’t leave out Campbellsville in Taylor County. Mainstreet in Downtown Campbellsville is the best spot to start your stroll.

Finally, history buffs can take a self-guided tour of Campbellsville’s historical sites, check out the culture and history of south-central Kentucky at the Museum of the Barrens, or head to Munfordville to visit the Kentucky Stonehenge for a trip into ancient times.