Best Tent Camping near Louisville, KY

Tent camping around Louisville gives you plenty of options within a short drive of Kentucky's largest city. Jefferson Memorial Forest has spacious tent sites with level ground and enough trees between spots for decent privacy. The sites at Deam Lake State Recreation Area just across the Indiana border have compact soil that holds tent stakes well, though some sites can be rocky. Most tent areas in the region have water spigots within 100 yards of campsites, and bathhouses are typically a 3-5 minute walk away. Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area maintains several tent-only loops where you won't have to deal with RV generators or headlights. The soft, pine-needle covered ground at Taylorsville Lake State Park makes for comfortable tent sleeping, and most sites have trees for hanging gear or tarps. Camping is good from March through November, but July and August can be hot and humid. You can find supplies in Louisville before heading out, with most camping areas about 20-30 minutes from the last grocery store. Many sites need reservations during weekends, especially at the more developed state parks with shower facilities. The tent sites at Hoosier National Forest require a bit more walking from parking areas but reward you with better isolation.

Best Tent Sites Near Louisville, Kentucky (8)

    1. Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest

    17 Reviews
    Fairdale, KY
    9 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Tent sites have so many trees surrounding them. If you're looking for more privacy anything off of the loop will do just fine."

    "The shaded area has 3 large picnic tables, water, fire ring & a private latrine. I purchased firewood in advance & it was delivered to our site before we even arrived."

    2. Deam Lake State Rec Area

    18 Reviews
    Borden, IN
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 246-5421

    "Picnic table. 15 pieces of firewood for 5 plus tax. Friends stayed in the chickadee cabin and d03. Neat cabins all wood with Portable AC.

    A few hikes."

    "I used this location as my FOB for a weekend of hiking in southern Indiana. The campground was nice."

    3. Birdsell Castle

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    Goshen, IN
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 842-8611

    $25 - $75 / night

    4. Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping

    3 Reviews
    English, IN
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 472-3140

    $20 / night

    "Nice size site with fire ring and picnic table. Lots of trees- so great tree canopy and plenty of hammock. Nice size pieces of wood and large bundles."

    "Sites are relatively close but you still have plenty of your own space. Each site comes with a fire pit and picnic table. Plenty of trees to hang up a hammock and empty space to pitch a tent."

    5. Happy Hollow Homestead

    5 Reviews
    English, IN
    40 miles
    Website

    $40 - $65 / night

    "He has firewood for purchase and will set up your fire for free with his propane torch, which was very helpful for us after a rainstorm."

    "We were nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem. Great stay. 20' Ford Transit ModVan. One bar with cell booster."

    6. Wildcat Creek Farm

    4 Reviews
    Lawrenceburg, KY
    47 miles

    $32 - $82 / night

    "A campsite settled upon the bank of the Kentucky River with a friendly farm cat, goats, horses and cow we delighted in a campfire as the sun set and the stars came out."

    "Neighbors were quiet as well. Even though we had an accidental mishap. Kevin was super cool. Would definitely recommend. Will be coming back for sure. "

    7. Bourbon Trail Campground

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    Lawrenceburg, KY
    42 miles
    +1 (502) 316-1712

    $39 - $55 / night

    8. Yellowbank Creek

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    Rome, KY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 273-3568
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Showing results 1-8 of 8 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Louisville, KY

442 Reviews of 8 Louisville Campgrounds



Guide to Louisville

Tent camping near Louisville, Kentucky offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city. With options ranging from well-maintained facilities to rustic settings, there's something for everyone.

Explore Local Activities for Tent Campers

Discover Unique Local Attractions

  • Visit the nearby Marengo Cave after a stay at Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping, which is conveniently located for those looking to explore natural wonders.
  • Take a short drive to the charming town of Sellersburg while camping at Deam Lake State Rec Area, where you can find local restaurants and shops.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of bourbon country while staying at Wildcat Creek Farm, where you can enjoy the peaceful riverside and friendly farm animals.

Tent Campers Should Check Out These Amenities

  • Jefferson County Memorial Forest offers private campsites with generous bundles of firewood delivered right to your site, enhancing your camping experience.
  • At Birdsell Castle, campers can enjoy electric hookups and drinking water, making it a convenient choice for those who want a bit more comfort.
  • Happy Hollow Homestead features well-spaced sites and amenities like showers and toilets, ensuring a pleasant stay in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Louisville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Louisville, KY is Horine Reservation Camping at Jefferson County Memorial Forest with a 4.2-star rating from 17 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Louisville, KY?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Louisville, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.