Red River (Kentucky River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red River |
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Red River in the Red River Gorge Geological Area
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| Country | United States |
| State | Kentucky |
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| Type: | Wild, Recreational |
| Designated: | December 2, 1993 |
The Red River is a river in eastern Kentucky, USA. It flows for about 97 miles (156 kilometers). This river is a branch, or 'tributary,' of the Kentucky River. From there, its water flows into the Ohio River and then into the mighty Mississippi River. So, the Red River is part of the huge Mississippi River watershed.
The River's Journey
The Red River starts in the mountains of the Cumberland Plateau. This is in eastern Wolfe County. It begins about 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of Campton.
The river then flows mostly west. It goes through the amazing Red River Gorge. This gorge is inside the Daniel Boone National Forest. After that, it passes by the towns of Stanton and Clay City. Finally, the Red River joins the Kentucky River. This meeting point is about 11 miles (18 kilometers) southeast of Winchester.
A Special River
In 1993, a part of the Red River became very special. A 20-mile (32-kilometer) section in the Red River Gorge was named a National Wild and Scenic River. This means the government protects it. It keeps the river wild and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Protecting the River
Years ago, there was a plan to build a dam on the Red River. This dam would have changed the Red River Gorge a lot. But a writer named Wendell Berry wrote a book called The Unforeseen Wilderness. He wrote it to help stop the dam from being built in 1971. His book helped protect the river.
Fun on the River
The Red River is a great place for fishing. The biggest golden redhorse fish ever caught in Kentucky was found here. It weighed 4 pounds, 5 ounces (about 2 kilograms)!
