This 1,025-acre property, located in Harlan County, was dedicated on Dec. 8, 2004, and is jointly managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) and the commission. This preserve was established to protect rare species and high-quality examples of the natural communities occurring on Stone Mountain’s north face. Public ownership also provides opportunities for wildlife and nature-related recreation and education. Dedication and management of this area help to protect at least nine rare plant species that have been documented there, including Appalachian sedge (Carex appalachica), rock harlequin (Corydalis sempervirens), Fraser's sedge (Cymophyllus fraserianus), tufted hairgrass (Deschampsia caespitosa), showy gentian (Gentiana decora), variable-leaved heartleaf (Hexastylis heterophylla), jointed rush (Juncus articulatus), southern bog clubmoss (Lycopodiella appressa) and mountain decumbent goldenrod (Solidago caesia var. curtisii). Once facilities are completed, the area will be open for hiking, nature study and wildlife-related recreation, including hunting and fishing in accordance with regulations established by KDFWR.

Visit KDFWR's Stone Mountain Wildlife Management Area and State Natural Area page.