Rolling Fork originates in Boyle County, Kentucky, and flows westward through Marion County before turning north to form the border between LaRue and Nelson counties. The river continues northward into Bullitt County, where it merges with the Salt River near the boundary of Bullitt and Hardin counties. This 108-mile tributary of the Salt River drains a significant portion of south-central Kentucky's Knobs region, characterized by steep valleys and rugged terrain that gradually transitions to broader bottomlands as the river approaches its confluence.

The river offers multiple paddling opportunities concentrated primarily in Marion County, where two distinct day trips have been established. The upper section runs approximately 11 miles from Calvary Dam off KY 208 to the bridge near St. Joseph at KY 412, featuring limestone rock outcroppings ideal for smallmouth bass fishing and a notable heron rookery between the KY 55/US 68 bridge and Old Mill Dam. This section includes one technical challenge at Old Mill Dam requiring portage on the right side, with whitewater ranging from Class I in low water to Class III in high water conditions. The lower section extends 9.55 miles from St. Joseph to Raywick off KY 527/Scotts Ridge Road, traversing more remote terrain including the distinctive Horseshoe Bend where the river nearly doubles back on itself.

Advanced paddlers in efficient boats typically complete each section in five to six hours, while recreational paddlers in shorter kayaks should plan for seven to nine hours. The upper section remains floatable year-round during normal rainfall years due to deeper pools created by Old Mill Dam, while the lower section can become extremely shallow in July and August, requiring frequent boat lining.

The river corridor supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, beavers, river otters, and bald eagles, particularly visible during spring and summer. The endangered Indiana Bat inhabits the surrounding forests, and the river itself hosts healthy populations of smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass, and various sunfish species.

Access points include public ramps at Calvary Dam, near St. Joseph, and in Raywick, all constructed by the Marion County Fiscal Court. The river passes through communities including Calvary, Raywick, and Howardstown in Marion County, New Haven in Nelson County, and Boston in Nelson County near the Beech Fork confluence.

Paddlers must navigate significant logjams, particularly at the KY 527 bridge near Raywick, where a massive debris pile requires careful portaging. The river's location in the upper watershed means water levels rise and fall rapidly after rainfall. No river gauges exist on these sections, requiring visual inspection before launching. The river flows through predominantly private property, though public navigation rights apply to the waterway itself.