Cities and Towns in Powell County, Kentucky
Founded in 1852, Powell County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Powell County was formed from Clark County, Estill County, and Montgomery County. The city of Stanton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 197, Powell County has a population of 13,133 and area of 180 square miles (466 km²).
List of all cities in Powell County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bowen, KY | 40380 | 606 |
| Campton, KY | 40376 | 606 |
| Clay City, KY | 40312 | 606 |
| Natural Bridge, KY | 40376 | 606 |
| Patsey, KY | 40380 | 606 |
| Rosslyn, KY | 40380 | 606 |
| Slade, KY | 40376 | 606 |
| Stanton, KY | 40380 | 606 |
| Westbend, KY | 40312 | 606 |
Major Cities and Towns in Powell County, Kentucky
Stanton
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 2.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,800 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40380
- Latitude: 37.8453° N
- Longitude: 83.8592° W
Location and History
Stanton, the county seat of Powell County, is located in east-central Kentucky along the Mountain Parkway. Established in 1852, the city was named after Richard H. Stanton, a prominent U.S. Senator. Stanton grew slowly as a regional trade and agricultural center, with tobacco and lumber serving as the economic backbone for much of its history. In the 20th century, the development of the Mountain Parkway and the city’s proximity to the Red River Gorge increased tourism, helping to shape the local economy. Today, Stanton serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, making it a key stop for tourists heading into the Appalachian region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stanton is served by the Powell County School District, which includes Powell County High School and Stanton Elementary School. Major landmarks in and around the city include the Red River Gorge Geological Area, a world-renowned destination for rock climbing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. Stanton is also home to the historic Fitchburg Furnace, an iron furnace that dates back to the Civil War era. Natural Bridge State Resort Park, located nearby, is another key attraction offering breathtaking views, trails, and camping facilities. The annual Powell County Fair and Woolly Worm Festival celebrate the town’s rural heritage and bring together residents and visitors for entertainment and local crafts.
Clay City
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40312
- Latitude: 37.8631° N
- Longitude: 83.9266° W
Location and History
Clay City is located in northern Powell County, along the banks of the Red River. Founded in the late 1800s, the town grew rapidly after the discovery of natural clay deposits, which fueled a thriving brick and tile industry in its early days. The town was named after the industry that defined its economy and contributed to the development of the area. Clay City also benefited from its location along the railroad, which facilitated the transport of goods. Although the brick industry has since declined, the town remains a small but important community in Powell County, with its economy now centered around agriculture and tourism, particularly due to its proximity to the Red River Gorge.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clay City is served by the Powell County School District, with students attending Clay City Elementary School and Powell County High School in nearby Stanton. A key landmark in the town is the Red River Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the area, including its clay industry and railroad heritage. Clay City is also close to several outdoor attractions, such as the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, offering hiking, camping, and scenic views. The town hosts an annual Fourth of July Celebration and fireworks show, which is a major event for the local community, bringing together families and visitors for food, fun, and festivities.
Bowen
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40380 (Shares with Stanton)
- Latitude: 37.8231° N
- Longitude: 83.7838° W
Location and History
Bowen is a small, unincorporated community located southeast of Stanton in Powell County. Historically, Bowen developed as a small agricultural settlement, with tobacco and corn as the primary crops grown by local farmers. Its rural setting and proximity to the Red River Gorge and the Daniel Boone National Forest have made it a quiet, scenic community, popular with nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle. While Bowen remains a small residential area, it has seen some growth due to the popularity of nearby outdoor recreational activities, particularly hiking, rock climbing, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bowen is part of the Powell County School District, with students attending schools in Stanton. While Bowen does not have major landmarks of its own, it is located near several significant attractions, including the Red River Gorge, which is world-famous for its geological formations and outdoor recreation. Bowen is also close to the Nada Tunnel, a historic one-lane tunnel that provides access to the Red River Gorge area and has become an iconic feature of the region. The community’s scenic countryside offers beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a quiet retreat for those who love nature and rural living.
Slade
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40376
- Latitude: 37.7914° N
- Longitude: 83.6757° W
Location and History
Slade is a small, unincorporated community located in the eastern part of Powell County, near the border with Wolfe County. Nestled within the Daniel Boone National Forest, Slade serves as the primary gateway to the Red River Gorge Geological Area and Natural Bridge State Resort Park. The community was established in the early 20th century, primarily as a base for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the surrounding forest and rock formations. Today, Slade is a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, and campers, offering easy access to some of Kentucky’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Slade is served by the Powell County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Stanton. The community’s main landmarks are its proximity to Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which features a 65-foot-high natural sandstone arch, and the Red River Gorge, which offers some of the best rock climbing in the Eastern United States. Slade is also home to several camping resorts, hiking trailheads, and scenic overlooks, making it a hub for outdoor recreation. The town hosts visitors year-round who come to enjoy the breathtaking views and outdoor activities that the Red River Gorge and Daniel Boone National Forest have to offer.
Rosslyn
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40380 (Shares with Stanton)
- Latitude: 37.8548° N
- Longitude: 83.8185° W
Location and History
Rosslyn is a small, unincorporated community located just east of Stanton in Powell County. Historically, Rosslyn developed as an agricultural community, with local farms producing tobacco, corn, and other crops. The town has maintained its rural character over the years and remains a quiet, peaceful area. Rosslyn’s location near the Mountain Parkway and its proximity to Stanton make it a convenient location for residents who enjoy country living but still want access to nearby amenities and services. While small, Rosslyn is representative of the many rural communities that make up the fabric of Powell County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rosslyn is part of the Powell County School District, with students attending nearby Stanton schools. The community is close to many of Powell County’s key attractions, including the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Resort Park. While Rosslyn itself does not have major landmarks, its location provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. The scenic landscapes of the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest offer endless opportunities for exploring the natural beauty of the region. Residents of Rosslyn often participate in countywide events, including festivals and fairs, which celebrate the agricultural and natural heritage of Powell County.
