It makes up the border between Pulaski and Laurel counties before flowing into the Cumberland River.

Due to the river carving into the Cumberland Plateau, many limestone and sandstone caves are formed.

The river has an important native walleye population that has stabilized in recent years.

The small cave systems formed in the limestone provides a home for several bat species, amphibians, and reptiles.

The Rockcastle Conservation Initiative formed in 2010 works to protect the diversity of this important habitat.