Equestrian camping opportunities near Lebanon, Kentucky include several county and state parks within a 35-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for trail riding. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler riding conditions with temperatures between 55-75°F.
What to do
Fishing at Logan-Hubble County Park: The park features access to the Dix River inside the property, making it a convenient spot for anglers. As one camper notes, "Close to a convenient put in spot for canoeing, kayaking on the Dix River (inside the park). Beautiful medium size lake in the park plus standard county park amenities. Does have a disc golf course."
Hiking at Jefferson Memorial Forest: Located near Louisville but offering a secluded nature experience, the forest provides numerous trail options. "Lots of trails ranging from 1.5 to 13.0 miles through gorgeous mixed forest of old and new growth deciduous and coniferous hardwoods," shares one visitor, highlighting the diverse terrain and ecosystems available to explore.
Golf near My Old Kentucky Home State Park: The campground shares space with an extensive golf course. A camper mentions, "There is a golf course on site. Plenty to see, including My Old Kentucky Home, the tour was amazing. Scout & Scholar Brewery was great. We will be back to spend time strolling the streets of Bardstown and taking a Distillery Tour."
What campers like
Access to water at Green River Lake State Park: The lake provides water recreation opportunities alongside camping. According to one review, "Easy check in and nice level sites close to the water. The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites." Another camper adds, "We stopped in nearby Greensburg on the way to rent a kayak, as we'd heard the closest marina(s) to the campground only had pontoons and larger craft."
Secluded sites at Taylorsville Lake State Park: The primitive camping area offers more privacy than many public campgrounds. One visitor explains, "The majority of the sites are spaced out and private... It is well kept and the bath house was pretty immaculate for such a full weekend. Several playgrounds nearby if you have kids to occupy."
Wooded camping at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground: Campers appreciate the natural setting despite being near town. "Very small campground and narrow roads. Many sites were not level and some sites were very short so make sure you review the site description... You did feel like you were in the woods so that was a plus," notes one reviewer.
What you should know
Equestrian facilities at Green River Stables: For those seeking horseback riding experiences near Lebanon, this facility offers dedicated equestrian camping. One visitor remarks on the "Southern hospitality! Has horse camping with covered stalls. Great trails on Green River Lake State Park for hiking, biking & horses. Located close to boat ramps."
Site selection at Taylorsville Lake: Choose your site carefully based on your needs. A camper advises, "Choose your site wisely. I took several pictures of each site to help others in the future. I didn't get site 7 or 10 because they were occupied but they are pretty nice as well but 10 is slightly open and not as secluded."
Limited staffing concerns: Some parks have inconsistent staffing, which can affect services. One camper at Taylorsville Lake reports, "The main overall issue is the lack of staffing. I'm not sure if it's the usual or if there is a lack of staff in general but we got in shortly after 7PM and there was no ranger or staff to be found to get firewood."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Jefferson Memorial Forest, campers note the family-friendly setting: "The camp sites are all wooded and primitive, preserving the peaceful serenity of such a beautiful and heavily forested area. Forgot to mention the miles of walking trails ranging from easy to difficult."
Consider noise levels: Airport proximity affects some campgrounds. A Jefferson Memorial Forest visitor warns, "Unfortunately it's in the departure path of Louisville's airport, so be prepared for once-a-minute takeoffs if the airport is using its southbound runways for departures. UPS releases about 100 planes from around 3-5am."
Group site options: For families camping together, dedicated group areas are available. At My Old Kentucky Home State Park, a camper shares: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. At Taylorsville Lake State Park, RVers should "make sure your site description" notes the levelness, as many sites "were not level and some sites were very short."
Utility distances at My Old Kentucky Home: Plan for extended hookup connections. "Sites are a bit uneven and water and electric is about 40 feet away. Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches. Site 28 seems to be the best. Site 30 is also very nice," notes one RVer who stayed there.
Seasonal considerations at Green River Lake State Park: Off-season camping offers more space but fewer services. A camper reports, "We stayed at this beautiful park in early November. There were only a few other campers so it was peaceful and very pretty. We enjoyed the lake views and fall colors everywhere. The downside was the store was closed and the wifi we expected wasn't on."
