Cabin camping near Shepherdsville, Kentucky provides diverse lodging options along the Salt River watershed at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet. Located in the outer Bluegrass region, cabins are accessible year-round with July highs averaging 87°F and January lows near 24°F. Summer months see higher occupancy rates, especially at cabins with lake access or air conditioning.
What to do
Hiking trails: 2-mile network at Louisville South KOA offers wooded paths suitable for all skill levels. "The campground has both pull through gravel sites, back-in, and tent sites... 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," notes Craig F.
Historic exploration: 15-minute drive to Bardstown for bourbon distillery tours from White Acres Campground. "We were unable to spend much time at the campground but made our designed trip to see the brewery's! Being minutes away from all the Bardstown brewery's this is a MUST SEE PLACE!" states Justin W.
Water activities: Kayaking and fishing opportunities at area lakes. At Deam Lake State Recreation Area, "The lake doesn't allow non electric motors so waters were calm. Caught some bluegills," reports John G. The lake restrictions create safer conditions for beginners and families.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Some cabin areas offer more room between units. "We did not use the shower or restrooms here, so can't really say much about those. It is a large campground and my one and only complaint/suggestion is the area where my camper was set had grass in desperate need of attention," explains Earl B. at White Acres Campground.
Seasonal activities: Otter Creek Park Campground organizes holiday events for families. "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!" shares Amber S.
Budget-friendly cabin options: Several parks offer cabin rentals at various price points. "The campground is very family-friendly and fun. There are horse trails, a beach, and great water for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. It is pet friendly as well," notes Lauren M. about Deam Lake State Recreation Area, which offers cabins as alternatives to tent camping.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking, particularly for weekends. "We stayed with an Airstream Caravan group. Assigned a site in the new open area with no trees. Utilities all worked, but this is a no fringe experience. However, if you want easy access to Bardstown and the various Bourbon Distillery Tours this place will work," explains Rick G. about accommodations at White Acres.
Site selection considerations: Lake Shelby Campground offers cabins with varying proximity to facilities. "Long way to a newer bath house, port-a-john almost as far away in opposite direction. RV spots were really tight. Shelter with electrical outlet attached to bathhouse," notes Pj F.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds have nearby transportation corridors. "We heard the train, it's super close and loud, but of course it only runs at midnight and 2 am," reports Never Sitting S. about Louisville North Campground. Another reviewer at Louisville South KOA noted, "One downside is that the campground is in the flight path of the airport. You can hear aircraft noise all night long."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sycamore Springs Park features multiple play areas throughout the grounds. "Playgrounds everywhere. Nice big sites with full hookups in the newer section. Price is very nominal for the amenities in my opinion. We were able to go 'creeking' do trail walking, bike riding. Just a super neat little place," says Beth H.
Water safety: Supervise children at lakes and swimming areas. "The tent sites were down a dead end road, however the amount of cars that went past our site made me feel like there was a parade that lasted almost the entire time we were there," reports Heather K. at Lake Shelby Campground.
Rental equipment: Many parks offer paddle boats and canoes for family recreation. "Perfect lake to kayak for a beginner because no wake zone also the cabins are cool and cozy just bring a mattress the restrooms are definitely the cleanest and well taken care of anywhere I've ever been," explains Brandy A. about Deam Lake State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Leveling needs: Many cabins and RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. "Make sure you have plenty of leveling blocks. We used all of ours and was not level," advises Curtis J. about Buffalo Trace Park cabins and RV sites.
Utility access: Water and electrical hookups vary by site location. "Has full hook ups, we got a spot by the tree line where the trains are. They really aren't that bad and those are the best spots on the property everyone else seems exposed," notes Justin T. at Louisville North Campground.
Maneuverability: Access roads and site layouts may challenge larger vehicles. "The campground is made for smaller sizes but we were able to negotiate the main ring road with our 37' travel trailer. The spot that we had reserved was in an area where we could not get into but we went to the gatehouse and they gave us another spot that was on the main ring road," explains Curtis J.
