Conserving Kentucky's Natural Areas - Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet

Close up of orange, green and brown mosses

FAQ and Rules for Visitors

Find answers to commonly asked questions about KNP's Natural Areas and State Nature Preserves.

Low flowing rocky stream in forested woodland with dappled sunlight.

Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund

The KHLCF Board provides grants for the management and purchase of natural areas by eligible applicants with funding generated by "Nature's Finest" license plates and other sources.

Kentucky Wild Rivers Program

KNP conserves the unique scenic, wildlife, botanical, geological, cultural and recreational values of Kentucky's most pristine rivers through the Wild Rivers Program.

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Land Conservation Options

For owners of qualifying natural areas, KNP offers land conservation options, including acquisition of land or enrollment in the Natural Areas Registry program.

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Habitat Management

KNP protects and manages a diverse system of nature preserves and natural areas across the Commonwealth from the Mississippi River wetlands to Pine Mountain on the Virginia border.

Young boy in blue shirt and red backpack bending down to closely examine the creek.

Environmental Education, Research, and Recreation

KNP Natural Areas provide opportunities for hikers, paddlers, field trips, and research.

Four young children hiking through an autumn forest with bug nets.

Find a Natural Area

Take a hike at a State Nature Preserve, paddle on a Wild River, or picnic at a Heritage Land site!

Explore Natural Areas

Group or Research Permits

Interested in bringing your group to a KNP nature preserve or natural area? Email us to request a permit application.

Conserving Kentucky's Natural Areas State Nature Preserves, State Natural Areas, Wild Rivers, Heritage Lands