Explore tupelo-cypress swampland and scout abundant wildlife in Ballard County, Kentucky.

In the far western corner of Kentucky lies Ballard County, a rural region at the convergence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Winding riverbanks and 30,000 acres of verdant land make Ballard County a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best ways to enjoy the county’s natural splendor is to visit the Ballard Wildlife Area, an 8,200-acre area in the Mississippi River floodplain that is open to the public from March 16 to October 14 annually. This area is characterized by oxbow lakes, bogs, grasslands, and tupelo and cypress swamps. Viewing opportunities are numerous for birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians—from raccoons, deer, and beavers to transient pelicans, wood ducks, and bald eagles.  Maintained roads provide access to various observation decks and photography blinds, or the more adventurous souls can opt to explore via kayak or canoe, though be warned, some areas are quite remote and are home to venomous cottonmouth snakes (also known as water moccasins).

It's worth noting that the nearby Axe Lake State Nature Preserve, though only accessible by written permission, is an unusual ecosystem in the state. It is known for its large, intact bald cypress-tupelo swamp, a landscape more commonly seen in southern coastal areas of the United States. This fragile biome is home to at least eight rare plant and animal species.  

Back on land and out of the swamps, Ballard County is rife with history. The Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site preserves an ancient Mississippian archaeological site. The museum offers a glimpse of the Native Americans who lived there and in other spots along the Mississippi River. These cultures, which farmed, hunted, and fished, built permanent homes and earthen mounds, the remnants of which can still be seen today. The largest intact mound at the site is known as the Ceremonial Mound, where political and religious activities would have taken place in the prehistoric Native American village.   

The Barlow House Museum in nearby Barlow also opens a fascinating window to the past. This expansive, 11-room Victorian mansion was home to Clifton Jesse Barlow, his wife, and their seven children. The museum showcases the family’s unusual collection of 20th-century artifacts, furniture, crafts, and memorabilia.

The Fort Jefferson Site, overlooking the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, marks the location of the first European settlement in far western Kentucky.  It was a short-lived stronghold for protecting the western border of the United States during the Revolutionary War and, during the Civil War, offered logistical support and supplies for the Union Army. In the 1990s, dozens of local churches worked together to build a 95-foot cross on the site, which is lit at night and can be seen from Missouri and Illinois.

Though the brilliance of Ballard County undoubtedly lies in its quiet, natural beauty, there are some must-stop spots if you’re enjoying the rural back roads and need a bite to eat. Smokey D’s Family Restaurant’s smoked meats are well-loved by locals and travelers alike, and Kentucky Hillbilly BBQ serves up tasty menu items like the “Hillbilly BBQ Tater” and “Pawpaw’s Coleslaw.” The Bluegrass Restaurant is a small-town spot with noteworthy service serving up catfish and fried green tomatoes, and Mimmie’s Pizza and Subs is the perfect stop for some pub food (try their smiley face fries, General Tso’s wings, or dessert pizza if you’re feeling fun!). 

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has insurance agents located in Ballard County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog series produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well.