Camping near Goshen, Kentucky offers a range of experiences from primitive tent sites to yurt camping accommodations across several state parks and recreation areas. The region sits at the confluence of multiple watersheds with elevations ranging from 450-900 feet. Fall brings temperatures between 45-75°F, making it popular for overnight stays with minimal precipitation.
What to do
Hiking historic trails: At Charlestown State Park Campground, explore multiple trails with significant elevation changes. A camper noted, "We hiked 4 of the trails, 3 of which were pretty rugged and all had elevation changes for a good hiking challenge." The park contains several historic features that can be reached via moderate hiking.
Fishing opportunities: Wooster Campground at Hardy Lake provides direct lake access where campers can moor boats overnight. "The Wooster Bay primitive area allows campers to moor their boats overnight. It has a very relaxed atmosphere," explains one visitor. The primitive area maintains darkness and quiet, separate from the electric campground.
Paddle sports: Multiple lakes offer boat, canoe, and kayak rentals for water exploration. One visitor at Starve Hollow mentioned, "We brought our canoe and a kayak, and enjoyed fishing the lake for small mouth bass, crappie, and cat fish. It was very nice to camp right on the water!" Rental rates typically range from $10-20 per hour.
What campers like
Secluded sites despite proximity to urban areas: Horine Reservation at Jefferson County Memorial Forest offers surprising seclusion. "You are literally ten minutes from anything you want or need. Once you get to the top of the hill you are far removed from the noise, hustle and bustle of city/suburb living," notes one camper. The primitive sites maintain a natural setting.
Lakefront camping: Many campers appreciate direct water access at several parks. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," shared a visitor at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: Despite their developed nature, many campgrounds maintain natural habitat. A camper at Lake Shelby noted, "Awesome wildlife for a park within the city: herons, geese (except for poop), ducks, turtles, beavers. We didn't see the coons but put food away every night as they visited our camp on a nightly basis."
What you should know
Site variability: Many campgrounds have significant differences between sites. At General Butler State Resort Park, "Heads up to check the map and Google Earth when booking. Some sites have a lot of room and others are super close to neighboring sites." This preparation helps prevent disappointments upon arrival.
Airport noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit under flight paths. A Jefferson Memorial Forest camper warned, "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. Really throws me outta my mood."
Yurt camping availability: For those seeking yurt camping near Goshen, Kentucky, reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance. Permanent yurt structures are limited compared to seasonal canvas options. Water access varies significantly between yurt locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature recently updated play equipment. "The playground is nice and has a pavilion right next to it," noted one visitor at Guist Creek Marina & Campground. Most playgrounds include shaded seating for adults monitoring children.
Swimming facilities: Seasonal swimming areas provide structured water activities. One camper at General Butler shared, "The lodge lets campers use the pool 4-7 pm for free which is nice." Most swimming areas operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Educational activities: Several parks offer educational programs during summer months. "Starve Hollow offers camping from full hookup, electric only (by the lake), tent camping, and cabins. The lake has a swimming area, playgrounds, and bathhouse," explained a visitor, highlighting the diverse amenities available for family engagement.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have significant limitations for larger RVs. At Louisville South KOA, a camper noted, "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."
Hookup variability: Water and electric service varies significantly between campgrounds. One RVer at Starve Hollow explained, "We stayed in the full hookup section... The bathhouse was clean (even though it rained most of the weekend). These sites are a good size and able to get any size Trailer or RV into these sites."
Specialized RV areas: Some parks separate RVs from tent camping areas. At Lake Shelby Campground, "Only 10 RV spots, 9 have electric and water hook ups... It was awesome backing into the spot as there is ample asphalt in front of all the sites." This design allows easier navigation for larger vehicles.
