Ross Creek WMA expands to almost 1,300 acres

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 13, 2026) — A wildlife management area along the Kentucky River has expanded to nearly 1,300 acres, offering hunters and anglers more opportunities to go afield this spring.

Ross Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) lies on either side of the Kentucky River near Lock and Dam 13. Most of the property is located in Lee County, with a smaller segment in Estill County. The core area, originally acquired in 2012, grew with several additions prior to opening to the public in 2021. The property expanded in late 2025 with the addition of 361 acres, totaling 1296 acres.

Ross Creek WMA is open to statewide hunting under regulations for Lee and Estill counties. During the spring season, only one legal turkey can be harvested per WMA.

Visitors will discover a hardwood forest with steep river bluffs, moderate hills and flat creek valleys. The area holds populations of squirrels, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer.

Ross Creek is an outstanding example of the stream restoration work of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wetland and Stream Mitigation Program.

Prior to its restoration, the Ross Creek channel had been relocated against a hillside to create pastureland. Erosion created high, muddy banks.

After restoration, the lower section of the creek now flows through pools and riffles as it once again winds through the old pasture. More than 15,000 trees and shrubs planted along its banks help control erosion.

Some of the creek’s old channel was used as a foundation to construct adjacent wetlands. Waterfowl are now using these areas.

Fish population sampling conducted on Ross Creek shows usage by smallmouth bass, some large rock bass and darter species such as the rainbow, orangethroat and fantail. Access for anglers along Ross Creek is outstanding.

To reach the area, visitors coming from Irvine should take KY 89 south to a left onto KY 851. Travel 6.5 miles to the next turn. Veer right and continue on KY 851 for 2.8 miles. The parking area is on the right.

Maps and additional information on the area are available on the Ross Creek WMA webpage on the department’s website (fw.ky.gov). There, visitors will find a detailed topographic map to plot hikes and hunting opportunities.​