Brigadoon State Nature Preserve
is 181 acres of mature woods and old fields bordering the backwaters of Barren River Reservoir in Barren County. Named by the former owners for the 
mythical Scottish village that appears from the mists once every hundred years, the unique character of the preserve does bring to mind the sense of being someplace special.
The preserve was part of a 1,000-acre land grant given to Joseph Renfro, one of Virginia’s Revolutionary War veterans. Renfro and his descendants settled along what was then known as Skegg’s Creek and derived their livelihood from the heavily forested land. In addition to farming, the family made coffins and furniture as a means of income.
Since the early 1800’s, the landscape has been altered significantly. Today Brigadoon is encircled by farmland, and Barren River Reservoir has overtaken Skaggs (formerly Skegg’s) Creek. The preserve’s forested ravines contain some old growth stands of beech and tulip poplar, adding credence to reports that a portion of the Renfro’s forested land was never commercially logged.
A large portion of the old growth located along a narrow slope above the reservoir on the preserve’s northern boundary was disturbed by a tornado in the mid-1970’s. This area is recovering, but the difference in age and condition remains noticeable. The majority of the forest is intact, which helps keep species diversity high. Life sustaining springs feed the creeks, even in the driest summers. The woods abound with colorful spring wildflowers, and over 120 species of birds have been observed throughout the preserve.
The Nature Conservancy was instrumental in assisting with the protection of the first 90 acres of Brigadoon, which were dedicated in 1985. The Commission acquired the remaining acres as a bequest from Dr. Russell Starr and dedicated them in 2001.
The preserve contains approximately one mile of hiking trail open to the public. The trail is of moderate difficulty and runs through ridge tops, mature forest and scenic ravines. The preserve is open to foot traffic from sunrise to sunset. Please be respectful of Brigadoon State Nature Preserve and follow the rules.
From Exit 43 on I-65, travel east on the Cumberland Parkway to its junction with US 31E in Glasgow. Follow US 31E south for 6.5 miles. Turn left onto Browning School Road and travel approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left onto Mutter Road. The parking area is .5 mile on the left.
By observing the rules for State Nature Preserves you will be helping to protect Kentucky’s natural heritage.
1. Preserves are open sunrise to sunset.
2. Trails are open to foot-traffic only. Please stay on the trail so that other visitors don’t get lost following a new path that your feet have made.
3. Horseback riding, bike riding, climbing, and rappelling are not permitted in nature preserves because of their destructive impacts to the trails and natural features. Motorized vehicles are not permitted.
4. Possession of firearms, drugs or alcohol is prohibited.
5. Please leave the things that catch your eye to do the same for the visitor who hikes after you. Collecting, hunting and trapping are prohibited.
6. Camping, picnicking, building fires, radios/tape decks, and pets are not permitted in nature preserves.
7. Please remember to pack out your trash.
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