Lake Shelby and Guist Creek provide upscale glamping options close to Shelbyville, Kentucky, with RV and tent accommodations at elevations between 700-850 feet. The area features rolling hills surrounding both lakes, with temperatures typically ranging from 40-75°F in spring and fall. Most campsites sit on level terrain with a mix of shaded and open areas, providing options for different camping preferences.
What to do
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: At Jefferson Memorial Forest, trails range from 1.5 to 13.0 miles through diverse forest. "Lots of trails ranging from easy to difficult through gorgeous mixed forest of old and new growth deciduous and coniferous hardwoods," notes Robert P., who appreciated the natural setting just minutes from Louisville.
Paddling opportunities: Guist Creek Lake offers boating access with a dedicated marina. A camper mentioned, "The lake is beautiful. Dog and I took a little canoe ride," highlighting the accessible water activities available even for short stays.
Fishing spots: Lake Shelby Campground provides lake fishing from multiple access points. "There are several docks and a boat ramp. You have to pay to launch and there is an honor box for that," explains one reviewer, making it convenient for anglers to enjoy the 52-acre lake.
Mini-golf and recreation: General Butler State Park includes family-friendly activities beyond standard camping. "They have mini golf and a gift shop. Tennis courts are down by the Butler-Turpin State Historic House," mentions a visitor who found multiple ways to stay entertained during their stay.
What campers like
Convenient location: Guist Creek Marina & Campground sits just minutes from Shelbyville amenities. "A Rural King store and other retail businesses are less than 5 miles from the location if you happen to forget something," notes Kevin T., appreciating the balance between natural setting and practical accessibility.
Clean facilities: Campground upkeep ranks high on campers' priority lists. One Lake Shelby visitor noted, "The shower facilities were clean. Been camping since I was six months old. Don't remember all the shower houses but I've never seen one this clean and well maintained."
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities enhance the camping experience. A camper at Lake Shelby shared, "Great space between the tent sites, but virtually no real privacy as public traffic into park was steady. Awesome wildlife for a park within the city: herons, geese (except for poop), ducks, turtles, beavers."
Spacious sites: Charlestown State Park Campground offers well-designed camping areas. "Campground is very large and very well kept. All the sites are pretty much the same with good spacing between them," reports Greg S., highlighting the comfortable layout for a variety of camping setups.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campgrounds have varying site quality. "Check the map and Google Earth when booking. Some sites have a lot of room and others are super close to neighboring sites," advises a General Butler State Park camper, emphasizing the importance of research.
Airport noise concerns: Jefferson Memorial Forest sits beneath flight paths. "The campground rests below the route to Louisville's international airport. For a hour or two in the morning and in the afternoon huge jets fly right over the campgrounds," warns Matt, noting this disruption to an otherwise peaceful setting.
Weather considerations: Cummins Ferry RV Park sits in a sheltered location along the Kentucky River. "It is down in a hollow which makes it secluded and quiet," explains a visitor, though this terrain can affect drainage during rainy periods.
Primitive site accessibility: Lake Shelby's more remote sites have unique characteristics. "In my opinion, the primitive tent sites were so close to the camper sites which likely couldn't be helped," notes Brandon E., providing context for those seeking more secluded glamping close to Shelbyville.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Louisville South KOA offers multiple play areas. "There is a pool(no hot tub-filled in with stones), play/game area, bounce pillow, and 2 miles of hiking trails around the campground," details a reviewer, highlighting the variety of activities for children.
Swimming access: Lake Shelby provides water recreation options beyond the lake itself. "Indoor and outdoor pool in the other half of the park. Kayak rental available," mentions a camper, pointing out these additional amenities that families appreciate.
Educational opportunities: General Butler State Park includes historical elements. "The Butler Mansion was well taken care of though we didn't make it there when it was open," notes a visitor, suggesting families plan for this educational stop during daytime hours.
Group camping considerations: Jefferson Memorial Forest offers specific group areas. "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," cautions a regular camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Cummins Ferry requires preparation for uneven sites. "The sites here are not level. We used our normal 2x green blocks for the Jack, but needed all 10 of our leveling blocks, plus 8 paving stones to get the appropriate height," warns an RVer who needed extra equipment.
Site length awareness: General Butler accommodates larger rigs with some limitations. "Sites loops are tight but people with big fifth wheels were able to manage just fine," notes Tom B., providing reassurance for those with larger setups seeking glamping options near Shelbyville, Kentucky.
Power availability: Lake Shelby offers robust electrical service. "All new electrical and water, all sites have 50 amp despite the website stating only 30 amps as recent update," shares an RVer with a 40' Class A, noting the improved infrastructure not reflected in online descriptions.
