Cities and Towns in Rockcastle County, Kentucky
Founded in 1810, Rockcastle County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Rockcastle County was formed from Lincoln County, Madison County, Knox County and Pulaski County. The city of Mount Vernon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 203, Rockcastle County has a population of 16,115 and area of 318 square miles (824 km²).
List of all cities in Rockcastle County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brodhead, KY | 40409 | 606 |
| Climax, KY | 40456 | 606 |
| Conway, KY | 40456 | 606 |
| Disputanta, KY | 40456 | 606 |
| Johnetta, KY | 40460 | 606 |
| Livingston, KY | 40445 | 606 |
| Mount Vernon, KY | 40456 | 606 |
| Orlando, KY | 40460 | 606 |
| Renfro Valley, KY | 40473 | 606 |
| Wildie, KY | 40492 | 606 |
Major Cities and Towns in Rockcastle County, Kentucky
Mount Vernon
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 3.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40456
- Latitude: 37.3570° N
- Longitude: 84.3405° W
Location and History
Mount Vernon, the county seat of Rockcastle County, is located in south-central Kentucky along Interstate 75, providing a crucial link between Lexington and Knoxville, Tennessee. Founded in 1810, the town was named after George Washington’s estate, reflecting the patriotism of early settlers. Mount Vernon grew as a regional hub for trade and commerce, benefiting from its location near the Wilderness Road, a key route for pioneers heading west. The town has a rich history tied to the Civil War, during which it served as a strategic location due to its proximity to the Cumberland Gap. Over the years, Mount Vernon has evolved into a peaceful small town that also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Appalachian region, including the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Vernon is served by the Rockcastle County School District, including Rockcastle County High School and Mount Vernon Elementary School. A key landmark in the city is Renfro Valley, known as Kentucky’s Country Music Capital, which hosts concerts, music festivals, and events year-round, drawing tourists from across the state. The Rockcastle County Courthouse, built in the early 20th century, remains an important historical site. Additionally, Mount Vernon is close to the scenic Lake Linville, offering recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The town is also home to the annual Bittersweet Festival, celebrating local crafts, music, and heritage.
Brodhead
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40409
- Latitude: 37.4034° N
- Longitude: 84.4158° W
Location and History
Brodhead is a small town located in the southern part of Rockcastle County. Established in the mid-19th century, Brodhead developed primarily as a railroad town when the Louisville and Nashville Railroad extended its line through the area in the 1860s. The town’s name is believed to have come from a railroad engineer or official involved in its founding. During its peak, Brodhead served as a bustling transportation hub for agricultural products, especially tobacco and livestock. Over time, the town has retained its historic charm while transitioning into a quiet, residential community with a strong connection to the county’s agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brodhead is part of the Rockcastle County School District, with students attending nearby Rockcastle County High School. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Brodhead Railroad Depot, which has been preserved as a museum to highlight the town’s rich railroad history. The depot is part of the Kentucky Heritage Council’s efforts to preserve historic rail stations across the state. Brodhead is also located near several natural attractions, including the Daniel Boone National Forest, where visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The town celebrates its agricultural and railroad heritage during the annual Brodhead Fair, a local event that brings the community together for food, entertainment, and crafts.
Livingston
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40445
- Latitude: 37.2920° N
- Longitude: 84.2140° W
Location and History
Livingston is a small town located in the southeastern part of Rockcastle County, near the Cumberland River. Established in the 19th century, the town grew as a coal mining and lumber industry center, taking advantage of the region’s abundant natural resources. Livingston was once a bustling town due to its proximity to the railroad and the timber-rich Daniel Boone National Forest. However, as coal and timber production declined, so did the town’s population. Today, Livingston is a quiet, close-knit community known for its scenic location near the Rockcastle River and as a gateway for outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Livingston is served by the Rockcastle County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Vernon. The town is known for its proximity to the Rockcastle River, which is popular for kayaking and fishing. Livingston also has historical significance as a former coal town, and remnants of its past can still be seen in the old buildings and railroad tracks that once supported the town’s economy. The nearby Wildcat Mountain Battlefield, the site of a Civil War battle, is a major historical landmark and a draw for history enthusiasts. Additionally, the Daniel Boone National Forest provides outdoor recreation opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Renfro Valley
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40473
- Latitude: 37.3890° N
- Longitude: 84.3152° W
Location and History
Renfro Valley is an unincorporated community located just north of Mount Vernon. Known primarily for its connection to country music, Renfro Valley was established in the 1930s as a music venue and cultural center. John Lair, a local radio personality and music promoter, founded Renfro Valley as a place to celebrate traditional Appalachian music and culture. It quickly became known as the “Kentucky Country Music Capital,” attracting musicians and fans from across the region. Over the decades, Renfro Valley has hosted some of the biggest names in country and bluegrass music, and it remains a popular destination for live music and festivals.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Renfro Valley is part of the Rockcastle County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Vernon. The community’s most prominent landmark is the Renfro Valley Entertainment Center, which hosts year-round concerts, music festivals, and other events that celebrate Kentucky’s rich musical heritage. The nearby Renfro Valley Barn Dance, a historic radio program that originated in the 1930s, is also associated with the area and continues to be a popular attraction. Renfro Valley’s location near the Daniel Boone National Forest makes it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, including hiking and camping. The community also hosts the annual Renfro Valley Bluegrass Festival, which draws bluegrass enthusiasts from all over the country.
Disputanta
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40456 (Shares with Mount Vernon)
- Latitude: 37.3864° N
- Longitude: 84.4593° W
Location and History
Disputanta is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Rockcastle County. The town’s unique name is believed to originate from a local dispute or disagreement among early settlers, though the exact history is unclear. Founded in the 19th century, Disputanta has always been a rural community, primarily focused on agriculture and small-scale farming. Over time, the town has remained small and has preserved its rural character. Disputanta offers a peaceful, scenic environment, with much of the area surrounded by forests, hills, and farmland.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Disputanta is part of the Rockcastle County School District, with students attending schools in Mount Vernon. While the town itself does not have major landmarks, its location near the Daniel Boone National Forest and Lake Linville provides residents and visitors with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The community’s rural landscape is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, making it a picturesque setting for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle. Residents often participate in local events and festivals in nearby Mount Vernon, including the annual Bittersweet Festival and other cultural celebrations.
