Based on a new study by the nonprofit organization SmileHub, Kentucky ranks third across states for outdoor enthusiasts in 2025. The rankings, announced to coincide with the formal start of summer, analyze all 50 states over 18 variables relating to outdoor access, environmental quality and recreational infrastructure.
Despite Kentucky’s gorgeous landscapes and rich traditions in outdoor sports, the state placed 48th overall, with particularly poor grades in the economic effect of outdoor recreation (49th) and acreage designated for parks and wildlife (42nd).
Related
Louisville Declares Operation White Flag Amid Intense Heat Wave
Other disappointing measures include air pollution (35th), number of national parks per capita (32nd), and the share of adults reporting little leisure-time physical activity (38th). While Kentucky scored marginally better in areas like sports and recreation charities (27th) and outdoor gear retailers per capita (33rd), those figures weren’t enough to raise its overall standing.
Montana scored the highest among all states at a total score of 63.24, with Mississippi ranking the worst at 17.92. Kentucky sat at 48th out of 50 with a score of 24.98.
To view the full report and your state’s rank, visit smilehub.org.
This article appears in Jun 20 – Jul 3, 2025.