Horse campgrounds near Mount Washington, Kentucky offer accessible trails through mixed hardwood forests across central Kentucky and southern Indiana. The area sits in the rolling hills between Louisville and Bardstown with elevations ranging from 400-900 feet. Weather can be unpredictable in spring and fall, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Trail riding through Jefferson Memorial Forest: Accessible from Louisville, this 6,600-acre forest provides diverse riding terrain. "Loved hitting the bourbon trail and being able to head back into nature! This place afforded us the ability to enjoy the city and then kick back at a nice scenic spot," says Molly G. about Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Fishing at local ponds: Many campgrounds maintain stocked fishing areas. At Cecilia Campgrounds, one camper reports "I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish." The farm setting provides a relaxing backdrop for anglers.
Explore the Blue River area: The river offers boating opportunities with natural scenery. "O'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on blue River, a beach at the park," notes Justin B. The park maintains mixed-use trails with access to water features.
What campers like
Proximity to bourbon country: Campsites serve as practical bases for distillery tours. "We camped here for three days in early August and used it as a 'home base' while we explored Louisville (Louisville Slugger Factory, Churchill Downs, etc.), bourbon country, etc.," shares Sara U. about Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground.
Easy lake access: Multiple campgrounds feature direct water access. "The lake looked very nice and is electric motor only. It will be nice to head back with the kayaks," explains Tom J. about Deam Lake State Recreation Area. Some lakes enforce motor restrictions for quieter conditions.
Fall foliage viewing: The hardwood forests provide seasonal color displays. "Beautiful in the Fall!" notes Audria J. when describing O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground. The mixed forests showcase vibrant autumn colors throughout October and early November.
What you should know
Airport noise affects some sites: Campgrounds near Louisville may experience jet traffic. "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," warns Derek P. at Jefferson Memorial Forest.
Large groups can impact smaller campers: Some campgrounds mix group and individual sites. "The large group sites are peppered throughout the family sites so if you happened to have a loud crowd on your weekend then you'll hear the music and shouting sometimes well into the night despite quiet hours," notes Matt at Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Limited staff at certain parks: Some locations have minimal attendants. "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," reports Justin S. at Taylorsville Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: When booking sites, check proximity to play areas. "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted)," shares Kelsey R. about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground. The better playground is located in loop A.
Halloween events create family fun: Some campgrounds host seasonal activities. "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. 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!" explains Amber S. about Otter Creek Park Campground.
Nature centers provide educational opportunities: Many parks include learning stations. "My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails," mentions Kelsey R. about O'Bannon Woods, which maintains educational exhibits with local wildlife specimens.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many equestrian campgrounds have uneven pads. "Smaller campground and narrow roads. Many sites were not level and some sites were very short so make sure you review the site description," advises M&P M. about My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground.
Water access varies: Not all sites provide direct hookups. "There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," explains Derek J. regarding O'Bannon Woods. Bring extra hose length to reach distant spigots.
Check pad dimensions: Site sizes may not match online descriptions. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," notes Shelly S. about equestrian camping areas. Measure your trailer before booking to ensure adequate space.
