Brooks, Kentucky camping spots sit near the Salt River watershed with an elevation of 460 feet. The camping season typically runs April through late fall, though several sites offer year-round access. Winter temperatures average 30-45°F while summer months can reach 85-95°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails at Jefferson Memorial Forest: The wilderness area offers trails ranging from 1.5 to 13 miles through mixed hardwood forests. "Lots of trails ranging from 1.5 to 13.0 miles through gorgeous mixed forest of old and new growth deciduous and coniferous hardwoods," notes a visitor at Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Bourbon distillery tours: Base your camping trip around visits to nearby distilleries. "We stayed at White Acres as we were heading to Texas. Simple campground with full hookups. Big sites. So much to do in Bardstown area," reports one camper at White Acres Campground. The location is convenient for exploring Kentucky's bourbon heritage.
Lake activities: Taylorsville Lake provides water recreation opportunities 30 minutes east of Brooks. "Taylorsville Lake and the marina across the lake offer good access to the water, gets busy in the summer," notes a camper. The lake gets crowded during peak summer weekends.
What campers like
Proximity to Louisville attractions: "This is a hidden little gem in the bustle of Louisville. We visited in the off season and during COVID. But the staff were friendly, grounds were clean," shares a visitor at Louisville South KOA in neighboring Shepherdsville.
Natural seclusion minutes from urban areas: Many campers appreciate the quick escape from city life. "Close to home and close to nature. Overall this campsite is amazing in the sense that its in a very natural setting," mentions a local camper at Otter Creek Park Campground, adding "we go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities."
Full hookup options for extended stays: Most RV parks in the area offer complete utility connections. Brooks RV Park provides 77 dedicated sites with full hookups in a peaceful setting. "Clean park. Decent location. The park manager Annie was very helpful," notes one visitor.
What you should know
Airport noise affects some campgrounds: Jefferson Memorial Forest sits under flight paths from Louisville International Airport. "The campsite rests below the route to Louisville's international airport. For a hour or two in the morning and in the afternoon huge jets fly right over the campgrounds," explains one camper. UPS releases around 100 planes between 3-5am.
Seasonal operations vary by location: Many campgrounds close or reduce services during winter months. Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground operates April 1 to December 15, while My Old Kentucky Home operates April 1 to October 31. Year-round options include Brooks RV Park and Grandma's RV Park.
Site privacy differences: Campground layouts vary significantly across the area. "The campsites seemed almost 'double' in size of other places we have stayed. Each campsite is divided off by trees and shrubs which we liked," notes a visitor at Charlestown State Park Campground across the river in Indiana.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "There is a pool, play/game area, bounce pillow, and 2 miles of hiking trails around the campground," states a visitor about Louisville South KOA facilities.
Halloween camping events: Otter Creek offers special fall programming. "The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat. There is even a group who does a haunted house and it is so fun," writes a camper about their October experience.
Spacious group sites: For family reunions or larger gatherings, seek designated group areas. "If you are looking for a place to take your children for a week or weekend of fun, My Old Kentucky Home State Park is your place. We stayed in spot 22 which is large and spacious. Seven of us camped (two families) with three tents, three hammocks and two cars," says a visitor at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many regional campsites require adjustment. "The sites were close to each other but provided plenty of space for the average sized rig. Many were longer than other KOAs, which enabled the tow vehicle and TT to be parked. Full hook-ups and 30/50 amp services at the sites, some leveling required," advises an RVer.
Limited primitive RV options: Most Brooks area campgrounds cater to hookup campers. "This is a hard to find gem in Louisville, KY! Nice sized sites, reasonably priced compared to the KOA, all good full hookups, nicely kept, and most importantly it is in a safe country setting surrounded by large trees and on a dead end road," reports an RVer about Brooks RV Park.
Reservation planning: Reserve well ahead for peak season visits. Most campgrounds fill quickly between May and September, especially on weekends. Holiday weekends often book 2-3 months in advance.
