Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground offers primitive camping options 10 minutes from Louisville in a heavily forested area. Sites have natural terrain with exposed roots and tree coverage that provides good shade throughout the day. The forest setting creates a secluded feeling despite proximity to the urban area, with trails connecting directly to campsites.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Jefferson Memorial Forest features multiple trail options ranging from 1.5 to 13 miles through mixed hardwood forests. "Lots of trails ranging from 1.5 to 13.0 miles through gorgeous mixed forest of old and new growth deciduous and coniferous hardwoods," notes Robert P. at Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Shelby provides fishing access with multiple docks and a boat ramp available for anglers. "You can fish both in the lake and on the stream below the dam. A couple of docks on the lake side," reports Martin M. about his experience at Lake Shelby Campground.
Historical sites: Rose Island at Charlestown State Park offers unique historical exploration with abandoned structures. "Rose Island is very cool - Haunting but sublime. The paved trail to see Rose Island is about 1/2 mile long hill that is very steep in parts," shares Greg S. about his visit.
Water activities: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming and boating options. "A large beach is available for swimming from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Restrooms, dressing facilities, showers, and food concessions are available to visitors," explains James L. about Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Lake access: Waterfront sites at Starve Hollow allow campers to enjoy the water directly from their campsite. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," shares Martin M. about Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Proximity to bourbon tourism: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring Kentucky's bourbon attractions. "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 her stay.
Natural surroundings: Campgrounds near Louisville offer wooded settings with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Awesome wildlife for a park within the city: herons, geese (except for poop), ducks, turtles, beavers. We didn't see the coons but put food away every night as they visited our camp on a nightly basis," reports Pj F. about Lake Shelby Campground.
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at various campgrounds. "The camp sites are spacious and lots of shade in the summer. Beautiful in the fall!" notes Audria J. about O'Bannon Woods State Park.
What you should know
Airport noise: Some campgrounds near Louisville experience air traffic noise. "This is a great little well-kept campground. 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.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We spent 5 nights at Charlestown State Park in mid-September 2020. Campground was nice with concrete pads and full hookups," shares Lisa D. about Charlestown State Park.
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on size and privacy needs. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," explains Shelly S. about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Different seasons offer varying experiences. "Many campers find spring and fall visits most enjoyable with milder temperatures and smaller crowds," notes one reviewer, while another adds, "Beautiful in the fall!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "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. about Louisville South KOA.
Water activities for kids: Pools and beaches provide summer recreation options. "The pool was very nice with a splash pad and two water slides (42" height requirement) and a small concession stand," shares Kyle about O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers offer learning experiences. "Nature Center was basic but well prepared with critters and educational items," explains Kyle about his family's visit to O'Bannon Woods.
Halloween camping: Some campgrounds host special seasonal events. "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. about Otter Creek Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Some campgrounds have shorter sites that require careful parking. "The sites are 20 feet long, but they allow front ends to stick out. Very nice park on a lake. All new electrical and water, all sites have 50 amp despite the website stating only 30 amps as recent update," reports Never Sitting S. about Guist Creek Marina Campground.
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "We stayed in the full hookup section (camping facilities: electric, sewer, and water hookup as well as fire ring, picnic table, and parking spur at each site. Modern restrooms/showers are available nearby," explains James L. about Starve Hollow.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require adjustments for RVs. "Sites have an asphalt pad that are mostly level. 50,30,20 amp service in one box," reports Derek J. about O'Bannon Woods, adding that water access is available through community spigots rather than at individual sites.
