Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Shelbyville? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Shelbyville's most popular destinations.
NOTE: Sections of trail between the Spurgeon Hollow Trail Head and mile marker 44s (2016 map version) are very wet and in some cases standing in water. The trail is passable, but will require hikers to walk around these sections to remain dry. Permanent relocation of these wet sections is underway. The relocation will not deviated greatly from the trails current location, but it will eliminate the lakes seasonal high water impact on the trail. The Division of Forestry is a multiple-use system. Please be aware of hunting seasons and what season may be open at the time of your hike. A majority of the Knobstone Trail travels through areas open to public hunting. Users of the Knobstone are encouraged to wear bright clothing (e.g., hunter orange, etc.) or other articles to ensure safety at all times of the year. With the removal of trees in the tornado area, timber harvested sections have become over grown with green brier, tree seedlings, and weeds, etc. To follow the KT through these sections, there are marks with two different color posts. Orange color marks the trail in the tornado area. Brown color marks the trail in the timber harvest sections between US 56 to Oxley Trailhead.
Scoutthere’s parking after a decrepit gravel road and suitable for camping. there are campsites along the trail just have to find them
Traveler
The KT is rugged and has lots of elevation gains over short distances. Everywhere you hike there are lovely vistas and lots of fossils on the trail snd creek beds. You're never too far from water, although the quality may differ depending on the time of year.
Watch out for ticks. My dogs and I got loads of them in April 2020 from Leota to Spurgeon Hollow. There are road crossings every 5 to 10 miles, so if you run out of something or need to bail you can. The KT asks that you respect leave no trace philosophy, and I felt most hikers did.
There is occasional trail magic but don't depend on it if thru hiking. I have not stayed in any campgrounds near the trail, so I can't review those, but the trailheads all have adequate parking and signage, and I found topo maps online for free.
Let someone know your itinerary, have a means for filtering water, and enjoy!
RangerMost people, even Hoosiers don't realize the Knobstone Trail exists. It's often referred to The Little AT by those who know about it. It's no walk in the park. There are continuous ups and downs that will challenge your leg strength and footing at times. There are plenty of great places to camp along the trail. Water can become scarce in the summer/fall months, but if you walk far enough, you're likely to come by a stream of some sort. Be respectful of the leave no trace rules and if you see any dickheads out there on 4 wheelers, take their picture and report them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Shelbyville, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Shelbyville, KY is Knobstone Trail with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
