Fort Boonesborough State Park
🏴 Walk Into Daniel Boone’s 1775 Fort — Living History, Kentucky River Camping, and Frontier Reenactments — A Kentucky state park with reconstructed Daniel Boone frontier fort, living history artisan demonstrations, 1778 Siege reenactment, Kentucky River campground, fishing, swimming pool, boat launch, and Kentucky River Museum — near Richmond, Madison County, Kentucky
Fort Boonesborough State Park brings America’s frontier era to life with a full-scale reconstructed fort modeled after the original 1775 settlement established by Daniel Boone on the banks of the Kentucky River. Inside the fort, resident artisans demonstrate 18th-century pioneer crafts — pottery, candle-dipping, weaving, soap making — in authentic cabins and blockhouses.
The annual 1778 Siege of Fort Boonesborough reenactment (every September) is the park’s flagship event — complete with battle simulations, settler and Native American camps, and frontier demonstrations that draw history enthusiasts from across the country. Beyond the fort, the park offers Kentucky River camping, fishing, and a swimming pool.
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Replica | 1775 Daniel Boone settlement | Cabins, blockhouses, furnishings |
| Living History | Artisan craft demos | Pottery, candle-dipping, weaving |
| Siege Reenactment | 1778 battle simulation | Annual September event |
| Camping | Kentucky River sites | Electric + water hookups |
| Fishing | Catfish, bass, bluegill | KY license required 16+ |
| Swimming Pool | Junior Olympic size | Water slide, seasonal |
| Boating | Boat ramp on-site | Canoe/kayak/motorboat |
| KY River Museum | River commerce history | Locks, dams, steamboat era |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | 50–75°F | 1778 Siege reenactment, foliage, perfect temps |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 70–90°F | Full fort hours, pool, camping, river activities |
| Spring (Apr–May) | 45–70°F | Fort opens, wildflowers, fishing |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 25–45°F | Fort closed, limited activities |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Admission | $8 adult / $5 child | Wed–Sun, Apr–Oct |
| Campsite | $20–$30/night | Kentucky River, hookups |
| Pool Admission | $5/person | Seasonal |
| Fishing License | $23 resident | Required 16+ |
| Family Day Trip | $16–$26 | Fort + living history + pioneer crafts |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the real Daniel Boone fort?
It’s a historically accurate reconstruction. The original 1775 fort is gone, but the replica is built on the same site with authentic-style cabins, blockhouses, and period furnishings. Resident artisans bring it to life daily.
When is the Siege reenactment?
September. The annual 1778 Siege of Fort Boonesborough is the park’s biggest event — battle simulations, frontier camps, and living history demonstrations spanning a full weekend.
Can I camp on the Kentucky River?
Yes. The campground sits along the river with electric and water hookups. Fishing, boating, and kayaking are all accessible from camp. Check current status as facilities may have seasonal limitations.
🏴 Step Into 1775
Daniel Boone’s reconstructed frontier fort, living history artisans, annual Siege reenactment, Kentucky River camping and fishing — American history you can walk through.
Wildlife & Nature
Fort Boonesborough SP — preserves the site where Daniel Boone established Fort Boonesborough in 1775 — one of the first English-speaking settlements west of the Appalachians. The fort survived multiple sieges by Shawnee and British forces. A working replica fort with costumed artisans demonstrates 18th-century frontier life. The Kentucky River, palisades, and forest support bald eagles and white-tailed deer.
Nearby Attractions
Richmond — 10 miles south — Eastern Kentucky University. Kentucky River Palisades — surrounding. Lexington — 25 miles northwest.
