The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is more than a trail, it’s an entire region of the Bluegrass State. Travelers can explore the history and distinct flavors of local bourbons at the many distilleries that dot the region. If you plan to visit with your RV, you’ll first need to decide where to stay. The Louisville South KOA and the Elkhorn Campground are two spots that come highly recommended by Kate Dunbar.
Kate Dunbar, author of The Campground Gourmet, spent six fabulous days exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Over on this week’s episode of RVFTA, you can hear all about her travel highlights, but she saved her campground recommendations for this episode of Campground of the Week.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Camping: Louisville South KOA Holiday in Shepherdsville, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Elkhorn Campground
Kate was immediately drawn to the Louisville South KOA Holiday because of the magnificent trees and the amazing pool, both of which offered a respite from the summer heat and humidity. When she arrived at her campsite (#212), she fell even more in love once she laid eyes on the huge patio and the rocking swing that came with her site. Plus, it was close enough for her kids to easily access all of the fun at this KOA Holiday.
Kate purposefully picked the the Louisville South KOA because of its “holiday” branding and all of the amenities that would come along with that. She knew she would be spending some time exploring the Bourbon Trail sans kids, and she wanted to ensure the family would have plenty to do at the campground. It did not disappoint. This KOA offers a jumping pillow, catch-and-release fishing pond, outdoor movie cinema, nature trails, bike rentals, and seasonal activities.
Photo Credit: KOA
Aside from the amenities and activities, the Louisville South KOA offers a beautiful, lush campground, offering the perfect place to unwind and let the kids catch some fireflies (or lightning bugs, depending on your local terminology). A variety of RV campsites and cabins are available. The Louisville South KOA is continuing to upgrade sites around the park, making plush campsites that elevate the camping experience. Kate recommends booking early if you’re traveling during horse-racing season, but otherwise, you might easily find a spot.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Camping: Elkhorn Campground in Frankfurt, Kentucky
Located between Louisville and Lexington, the Elkhorn Campground in Frankfurt is truly at the heart of Bourbon country. This “mom and pop” campground truly welcomes visitors and tries to make them feel like family. Plus, the location along Elkhorn Creek offers a scenic environment for your stay. Sites 6-38 are right along the creek. Sit back at night, and listen to the water ripple and the crickets chirp. Kate describes this as the perfect place to catch a breath.
The Elkhorn Campground offers 125 campsites, with a mixture of seasonals, pull-thrus, and back-in sites. Some offer full hookup, while others are water/electric only. The onsite general store offers hand-dipped ice cream. The big pavilion is a great place for a get together, or on rainy days, you can stay dry and warm near the fireplace. Kids will also enjoy the pool and putt-putt golf.
If this episode of COTW made you curious about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, don’t forget to check out the paired episode over on RVFTA. Kate shares her travel highlights, including her favorite attractions, bourbon distilleries, and of course, the best restaurants in the region.
Thank you, Kate, for painting a poetic picture of summertime in Kentucky!
See you at the campground,
Stephanie + Jeremy
