Best Camping near Louisville, KY

Camping near Louisville, Kentucky

Camping near Louisville, Kentucky offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene state parks to bustling campgrounds with all the amenities. Whether you're looking to hike through lush forests, fish in tranquil lakes, or simply relax by a campfire, the campgrounds around Louisville have something for everyone. With options for tent camping, RVs, and even glamping, there's a perfect spot for every type of camper.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the best campgrounds near Louisville, what activities you can enjoy, what campers love and dislike, and tips for families and RVers. From the peaceful Charlestown State Park Campground to the convenient Louisville South KOA, you'll find all the information you need to plan your next camping adventure.

What to do

Camping near Louisville offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and fishing to exploring historic sites, there's no shortage of things to do.

Hiking and Trails

Many campgrounds offer access to beautiful hiking trails. For example, Charlestown State Park Campground is known for its great hiking opportunities and the historic Rose Island Theme Park. As Makada L. mentioned in their review, "Great hiking opportunities and cool exploration of historic Rose Island Theme Park."

Fishing and Water Activities

If you enjoy fishing, Deam Lake State Rec Area is a great choice. Lindsey M. shared in their review, "We had a great time fishing, kayaking, and swimming."

Family Fun

For families, campgrounds like Louisville South KOA offer amenities such as playgrounds and dog parks. Lisa M. noted in her review, "Full hookups, dog park, lots of places to walk, even trails."

What campers like

Campers have shared many positive experiences about camping near Louisville. Here are some highlights of what they love.

Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities

Many campers appreciate the cleanliness and maintenance of the campgrounds. Wesley S. praised Charlestown State Park Campground in their review, saying, "Clean and quiet. Very nice park. Clean restrooms and showers."

Friendly Staff

The staff at these campgrounds often receive high marks for their helpfulness. Ian O. mentioned in his review about Louisville South KOA, "Great cozy area with good hookups, friendly staff and good spacing."

Scenic Beauty

The natural beauty of the campgrounds is another big draw. Paul highlighted in his review about Charlestown State Park Campground, "Great park for quiet camping. Multiple hiking trails which can be mixed and matched for longer hikes."

What you should know

While there are many positives, there are also some things campers should be aware of when camping near Louisville.

Noise Levels

Some campgrounds are located near busy areas or flight paths, which can lead to noise. Derek P. pointed out in his review about Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest, "Unfortunately it’s in the departure path of Louisville’s airport, so be prepared for once-a-minute takeoffs."

Crowded Weekends

Popular campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. Dyan F. mentioned in their review about Deam Lake State Rec Area, "Super crowded on the weekends but not too bad during the week."

Facilities

Some campgrounds may have limited facilities. Michelle noted in her review about Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest, "My 2 downfalls for this campground is that there is no full bathhouse, only portapoties."

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families can be a wonderful experience, especially with the right preparation. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip near Louisville enjoyable.

Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds

Look for campgrounds with amenities that cater to families. Kelsey R. shared in her review about Charlestown State Park Campground, "My children loved all the playgrounds around the state park, great trails."

Plan Activities

Keep the kids entertained with planned activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring. Cynthia K. mentioned in her review about Deam Lake State Rec Area, "The playground looked fairly new. The bathrooms/showers had a plastic type lining on the walls."

Bring Essentials

Make sure to bring all the essentials, including earplugs if you're camping near a noisy area. Ella L. suggested in her review about Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest, "The ground is SUPER SOFT due to all the pine needles that have fallen over the years."

Tips from RVers

RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from experienced RVers who have camped near Louisville.

Full Hookups

Look for campgrounds that offer full hookups for a more comfortable stay. Lisa M. highlighted in her review about Louisville South KOA, "The site we had was for a 38’ RV. Full hookups, dog park, lots of places to walk, even trails."

Friendly Staff

A helpful and friendly staff can make a big difference in your camping experience. Stephanie W. shared in her review about Louisville South KOA, "We live here full time love the camp site an the people who run the place an live here as well."

Avoiding Crowds

Try to plan your trips during the off-season or weekdays to avoid crowded campgrounds. Stephen D. mentioned in his review about Charlestown State Park Campground, "Quiet campground especially off season. Would come again."

Camping near Louisville, Kentucky offers a variety of experiences for every type of camper. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, the campgrounds in this area provide plenty of options to suit your needs.

Best Camping Sites Near Louisville, KY (66)

    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground

    1.

    Charlestown State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    145 Photos
    192 Saves
    Charlestown, Indiana

    Welcome to Charlestown State Park Campground! This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure. Nestled near Charlestown, Indiana, this campground offers year-round access and a solid 4.4-star rating from visitors.

    One of the standout features here is the variety of accommodations available. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking an RV, or looking for a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. The campground is big-rig friendly and offers electric and sewer hookups, making it a convenient choice for RV travelers. Plus, pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    Visitors have raved about the cleanliness of the park. The restrooms and showers are well-maintained, and the sites themselves are tidy. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for those evening campfires. Firewood is available on-site, so you won't have to worry about bringing your own.

    For those who love hiking, the park offers several trails that can be mixed and matched for longer hikes. One of the highlights is the historic Rose Island Theme Park, which adds a unique twist to your outdoor adventure. Just be prepared for a bit of a climb if you decide to explore this area.

    Families will appreciate the playgrounds scattered throughout the park, providing plenty of entertainment for the kids. And if you're into a bit of history, the park's proximity to Louisville offers additional opportunities for exploration.

    So, whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Charlestown State Park Campground has got you covered. Enjoy the natural beauty, the clean facilities, and the friendly atmosphere. Happy camping!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $7 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisville South KOA

    2.

    Louisville South KOA

    20 Reviews
    58 Photos
    58 Saves
    Shepherdsville, Kentucky

    Bring the whole family for an ideal getaway in the Bluegrass State! We have endless activities, themed weekends, top notch accommodations and are located only minutes from downtown Louisville. While on the campground, observe the Indian cave dwelling burrowed in limestone cliffs, enjoy movies on our big outdoor movie screen, explore the area with a hike right from your site and enjoy our natural pond area! Make a splash in our crystal clear pool- open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Summer campers can join in the fun with our themed events every weekend from June until September. Please visit our events or Facebook page for more information on our seasonal events. With 90 foot pull-through and 50-amp sites available, our campground is truly big rig friendly. No RV? No problem! Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of our cozy one or two bedroom air-conditioned Camping Cabins. For those who like the comforts of home, try our fully furnished Deluxe Cabin, with full kitchen and bathroom. For more rustic accommodations, spend the night on a grassy tent site, all sites have fire pits and picnic benches. When we say bring the whole family, we mean your four legged friends too! Offering pet friendly cabins as well as a dog park for them to play in.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest

    3.

    Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest

    17 Reviews
    92 Photos
    106 Saves
    Fairdale, Kentucky

    Jefferson Memorial Forest features a campground for tent camping and can accommodate both families and groups. Although the Forest is only minutes from Metro Louisville, camping here seems like a much more remote camping experience. Located within the Horine Reservation, the campground is in the uplands of the Forest and has good separation between individual campsites. Seven family campsites and four group campsites are available. Latrines and water are near to all the sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $15 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground

    4.

    Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    53 Photos
    144 Saves
    Mount Eden, Kentucky

    Camp out in Taylorsville Lakes RV campground, which has a central service building with laundry. Ten sites of the campground are set aside for horse camping. These sites have water and electricity and share the RV camp's laundry room.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $21 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake  State Rec Area

    5.

    Deam Lake State Rec Area

    17 Reviews
    26 Photos
    68 Saves
    Borden, Indiana

    Deam Lake State Recreation Area is a solid spot for camping, especially if you're into a mix of activities and don't mind a bit of rustic charm. The campground offers a variety of amenities like electric hookups, drinking water, and showers, making it a comfortable place to set up camp. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    The lake itself is a highlight, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Just be prepared for some crowds on the weekends. The trails around here are pretty decent too, with the Knobstone Trail starting right at the park. It's a 60-mile backpacking trail, but there are shorter, more rugged trails if you're not up for a long haul. The Lake Vista Trail, for instance, is a challenging 1.6-mile hike with some steep inclines.

    The campground is near Borden, Indiana, so if you need to stock up on supplies or grab a bite, Sellersburg is just a short drive away with restaurants and grocery stores. The sites are generally well-kept, though some can be a bit uneven or have a steep incline. If you're particular about your spot, it's a good idea to call the park office directly.

    One thing to note is that the bathrooms and showers are hit or miss. Some visitors have found them clean enough, while others think they could use a bit more attention. But hey, it's all part of the camping experience, right? Overall, Deam Lake offers a good mix of nature and convenience, making it a worthwhile destination for a weekend getaway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park

    6.

    My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground — My Old Kentucky Home State Park

    26 Reviews
    81 Photos
    63 Saves
    New Haven, Kentucky

    Welcome to My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground, nestled near the charming town of Bardstown, KY. This spot is a hidden gem, especially for those looking to explore the bourbon trail. The campground is small but cozy, making it a great place to unwind after a day of distillery tours.

    The campground offers electric and water hookups, though you might need some extra extension cords as the hookups can be a bit far from the sites. It's a good idea to bring plenty of blocks to level your RV, as the terrain isn't the flattest. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

    One of the standout features here is the friendly atmosphere. Visitors often mention the welcoming staff and neighbors, which adds to the overall pleasant experience. The campground is also big rig friendly, and there's a sanitary dump station available for your convenience.

    For those who enjoy a bit of history and culture, the campground is right next to the historic My Old Kentucky Home, which offers tours. Plus, there's a golf course on-site if you fancy a round or two. If you're traveling with kids, they'll love the playground nearby.

    While the sites are a bit close together, the location more than makes up for it. You're just a stone's throw away from Bardstown, where you can explore local breweries, shops, and more. Don't miss out on the local donuts at Hadorn's Bakery—it's a must-visit!

    In summary, My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground is a great base for exploring the bourbon trail and enjoying the local culture. Just come prepared with a few extra supplies, and you'll have a fantastic stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $28 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground

    7.

    Clifty Falls State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    167 Photos
    232 Saves
    Madison, Indiana

    Clifty Falls State Park Campground, near Madison, Indiana, is a gem for those who love a mix of rugged hiking and convenient camping. This place is open year-round, so you can enjoy its beauty in any season. The park itself is known for its stunning hiking trails, which can be quite challenging but reward you with breathtaking views of sheer rock walls, steep cliffs, and vibrant fall colors. The waterfalls, though sometimes just a trickle, add to the park's charm.

    The campground offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. You can bring your pets along, and there's drinking water and electric hookups available. Fires are allowed, and you can even buy firewood on-site. The campground is also big rig friendly, which is a plus for RV travelers.

    Some visitors have noted that the bathrooms and showers could use a bit more attention, but overall, the facilities are functional. The push-button showers might test your patience, but hey, it's all part of the adventure, right? The park also has a sanitary dump and sewer hookups, making it convenient for longer stays.

    One of the highlights of staying here is the proximity to the historic town of Madison. It's a small town with local shops and eateries, perfect for a quick day trip. The park's trails are well-loved, though some have mentioned that they could be better marked. So, plan for a bit of extra time on your hikes.

    In summary, Clifty Falls State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate nature's beauty and don't mind a few quirks. The hiking is top-notch, the scenery is stunning, and the nearby town of Madison adds a nice touch to the overall experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shelby Campground

    8.

    Lake Shelby Campground

    13 Reviews
    27 Photos
    41 Saves
    Shelbyville, Kentucky

    Welcome to Lake Shelby Campground, nestled near Shelbyville, KY. This spot is a mix of charm and practicality, perfect for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. The campground sits right by the lake, offering a peaceful setting with plenty of opportunities for fishing and relaxing by the water.

    One of the standout features here is the availability of electric and water hookups at most RV sites, making it a convenient stop for those traveling with larger rigs. The sites are spacious enough to accommodate big rigs, and there's a sanitary dump station available, though maneuvering can be a bit tight.

    For those who enjoy a bit of outdoor cooking, fires are allowed, and firewood is available on-site. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. The campground also has showers and toilets, ensuring you have the basic comforts covered.

    If you're into activities, there's a nearby swimming pool for a small fee, and the area offers parks with equestrian trails, playgrounds, and even a disc golf course. For a bit of local flavor, you can drive to Louisville or check out the huge mall in Simpsonville. And if you're hungry, don't miss out on Wings n Rings—it's a local favorite.

    Visitors have mentioned the beauty of the lake and the relaxing atmosphere, though some have noted the presence of geese and ducks, which can add a bit of nature's mess to your site. But overall, it's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

    So, whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay, Lake Shelby Campground offers a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities to make your camping experience enjoyable.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
  1. 9.

    Brooks Mobile & RV Park

    4 Reviews
    19 Photos
    17 Saves
    Brooks, Kentucky

    Brooks Mobile & RV Park

    Brooks RV Park is the safest RV Park in the Louisville area. It is beautifully landscaped with all 50 amp full hook-up RV sites, located just 1.8 miles from I-65! We are the only RV Park in Louisville Kentucky with creek front and concrete pad sites. We are conveniently and centrally located for easy access to all Louisville, KY has to offer yet far enough away from the Freeway so there is no road noise. There are 2 nice golf courses within 3 miles. We are located near shopping, restaurants, Churchill Downs, Downtown Louisville, the Bourbon Distillery Trail, and many other attractions.

    Daily rates for full hookup sites start at $35 a night. Weekly rates start at $220, and monthly rates start at $445. We offer preferred creek front sites, over-sized sites, pull through sites, concrete pad sites, and hill side sites. All sites include 50 amp electric, water, and sewer. There is a dumpster next to lot 62. Lawn care is provided. There are monitored security cameras in our beautiful and very safe park. We have 50 to 30 amp adapters for sale on site. Currently Wi-Fi is broadcast and available near the center of the park at lot 50. Please see our Rates Page for important information regarding weekly and monthly long term stays, deposits, and more.

    Come and enjoy the beautiful new landscaping in this peaceful RV Park with a creek. The park has paved roads, and this is a big rig park that can handle coaches as large as 50 feet. Because we are conveniently located in the greater Louisville metropolitan area, please know there is a nearby train track, and we are only 8 miles from the Louisville International airport as well, but you get used to it! Thankfully there is no freeway noise, which can be very loud. We do not have bathrooms or a shower house, or a pool, but we do have a credit card laundry facility on site.

    We strive to offer excellent customer service, so please feel free to call if you have any issues! We have an on-site Assistant Manager, Annie who is located on Lot 12A, and you can reach her after you arrive by calling (502) 276-6090 or look for Annie doing landscaping in the park.

    We love our long term RV guests! We are open all year long, and we welcome full timers to come stay with us!

    We also love to hear from our guests! Please feel free to send feedback to Scott and Dana, the owners, by emailing info@brooksrvpark.com . This helps us provide you with a fantastic guest experience. Make this your home away from home, whether you are exploring the many attractions in the Louisville area or if you are visiting for work.

    Interested in renting an RV, and even having it delivered to the campsite? Try RVshare!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    10.

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    42 Photos
    126 Saves
    Leavenworth, Indiana

    Welcome to O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, a fantastic spot near Corydon, Indiana. This place has a lot to offer, whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, or just kicking back and relaxing. The campground is open all year and has a solid 4.5-star rating, so you know it's a hit with visitors.

    One of the standout features here is the variety of trails. There's a trailhead right within the campground, making it super convenient for those who want to hike without driving anywhere. If you're up for a bit of adventure, check out the trail to the old abandoned bridge or climb the fire tower for some killer views. Horseback riding is also popular, and experienced cavers will find plenty to explore, though you'll need a permit for the caves.

    The campground itself is well-kept and organized, with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and toilets. Pets are welcome, and you can even bring your big rig. There's also a sanitary dump and sewer hookups, making it RV-friendly. For those who love a good campfire, fires are allowed, and you can buy firewood on-site.

    Families will appreciate the multiple play areas for kids and the nearby pool with a splash pad and water slides. The nature center is a hit with both kids and adults, offering educational exhibits and critters to check out. If you're into kayaking, the Blue River is nearby and perfect for a paddle.

    Cell service is decent, with T-Mobile and AT&T both getting a few bars, so you won't be completely off the grid. Just a heads-up, ticks can be a bit of a nuisance, so come prepared.

    Overall, O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground is a great place for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just chilling by the campfire, there's something here for everyone.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Louisville

Recent Reviews In Louisville

458 Reviews of 66 Louisville Campgrounds


    No Reviews Found



Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Louisville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Louisville, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 66 campgrounds and RV parks near Louisville, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Louisville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Louisville, KY is Charlestown State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Louisville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Louisville, KY.

What parks are near Louisville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Louisville, KY that allow camping, notably Hoosier National Forest and Mammoth Cave National Park.