My Old Kentucky Home Campground

For those in Kentucky seeking an authentic blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, My Old Kentucky Home Campground presents a truly unique camping experience. Situated within My Old Kentucky Home State Park in Bardstown, this campground offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the very essence of Kentucky's heritage and enjoy the tranquility of a state park setting. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of My Old Kentucky Home Campground, helping you decide if it’s the perfect backdrop for your next Kentucky getaway.

Camping holds a special place in the hearts of many Kentuckians, offering a chance to reconnect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and explore the diverse landscapes our state has to offer. My Old Kentucky Home Campground stands out as a destination that combines the joys of traditional camping with the added benefits of being part of a historic state park. Whether you're an avid RVer looking for full hookups, a tent camper seeking a peaceful spot under the stars, or a group of friends eager to explore the world-famous Bourbon Trail, this campground aims to cater to a variety of preferences. It's a place where history comes alive, and outdoor recreation is just steps away, providing a memorable experience that blends cultural enrichment with natural relaxation.

It is important for prospective campers to note that My Old Kentucky Home State Park's campground is currently undergoing significant renovations, with an estimated completion by late summer 2025. These improvements aim to enhance visitor experiences and modernize facilities, ensuring a more comfortable stay for future guests. While this may mean some temporary adjustments, the commitment to upgrading the park's amenities underscores its dedication to providing a top-tier experience.

My Old Kentucky Home Campground is ideally located at 668 Loretto Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004, USA. This exceptional location places the campground directly within My Old Kentucky Home State Park, a site of immense historical and cultural significance in Bardstown, widely celebrated as the "Bourbon Capital of the World."

The campground's proximity to Bardstown's historic downtown is a significant advantage. Just a short drive separates campers from a charming array of local shops, diverse dining experiences, and the numerous distilleries that comprise the renowned Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This makes the campground an unparalleled "perfect location" for those embarking on Bourbon Trail tours, allowing for easy access to some of the state's most iconic attractions. Reviews consistently highlight that campers are "not more than a half hour away from all the local distilleries," which is a considerable convenience for enthusiasts.

Beyond the Bourbon Trail, Bardstown itself offers a wealth of activities. Visitors can tour the historic Federal Hill mansion, the inspiration for Stephen Foster's famous song, "My Old Kentucky Home." The park also hosts "The Stephen Foster Story," an outdoor drama performed in its amphitheater during summer months. For those looking to explore beyond Bardstown, the campground's central location provides relatively easy access to other Kentucky cities like Louisville and Lexington, making it a convenient hub for broader regional exploration. While the reviews mention some street noise at night due to the area's growth, which can be an indicator of increasing local vibrancy, its overall accessibility to town and major attractions remains a key benefit. The combination of a peaceful state park setting with immediate access to a lively and historic town makes this location highly desirable for Kentucky residents and visitors alike.

My Old Kentucky Home Campground, as part of a Kentucky State Park, offers a range of services designed to make your camping experience enjoyable and convenient:

• RV Sites with Hookups: The campground features 39 RV-friendly camping spots. These sites generally come equipped with essential hookups, including electricity (both 30 and 50 amp where available) and water connections.
• Tent Sites: For traditional campers, primitive camping areas are available, set amongst the park's wooded forests, offering a more rustic outdoor experience.
• Bathhouse: A central service building houses showers and restrooms for the convenience of all campers. (Note: Current renovations are set to construct a modern bathhouse, addressing previous feedback regarding facilities.)
• Dump Station: An RV dump station is provided for waste disposal, essential for RV travelers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Campground Host: A campground host is often on-site to assist campers and ensure a smooth stay.
• Nearby Amenities: A grocery store and laundry facilities are conveniently located across the street from the park, offering easy access to supplies and services.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed in the campground, provided they are restrained, allowing you to bring your furry companions.
• Access to Park Facilities: Campground guests have access to the wider state park amenities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Please note that the campground is currently undergoing renovations until summer 2025, which will include new electric and water lines, additional sewer sites, and the new bathhouse, aiming to significantly enhance these services.

My Old Kentucky Home Campground offers several features that make it a compelling choice for campers in Kentucky:

• Historic Park Setting: Campers are immersed in the beauty and history of My Old Kentucky Home State Park, with direct access to the iconic Federal Hill mansion and its formal gardens.
• Unbeatable Bourbon Trail Access: Its location is repeatedly praised as "the perfect location" for Bourbon Trail tours, with "all the local distilleries" being a short drive away. This is a major draw for many visitors to Bardstown.
• Proximity to Golf Course: For golf enthusiasts, the campground is "close to the golf course," offering an 18-hole regulation course within the state park itself.
• Nearby Wineries: Beyond bourbon, reviews mention that "several nearby wineries are also good to check out," providing additional local attractions.
• Renovations Underway: Significant investments of $4 million are being made to upgrade the campground, including 39 full-service campsites and a modern bathhouse, promising enhanced visitor experiences by late summer 2025.
• Flexible Site Options: The park accommodates both RVs with various hookup options and primitive tent camping, catering to different camping styles.
• State Park Activities: Access to the state park allows for hiking, picnicking, and attending special events like "The Stephen Foster Story" outdoor drama.
• Accommodating Staff: While there's varied feedback, some reviews suggest "friendly staff and neighbors," contributing to a positive community atmosphere.

It is important for prospective campers to be aware of the ongoing renovations and potential for construction noise during this period, as well as considering feedback regarding existing restroom facilities (which are being addressed by the renovations) and occasional street noise due to the area's development.

As a Kentucky State Park campground, My Old Kentucky Home Campground often participates in statewide discounts and specific programs. While direct promotional codes for this specific campground beyond standard state park offers are not always widely advertised, general Kentucky State Park discounts that may apply include:

• Military Discount: Active and retired military personnel often receive a discount (e.g., 10%) on lodging and camping. Proof of service is required. Kentucky POWs camp for free with a valid POW card.
• Senior Citizen Discount: Guests aged 62 and older may be eligible for a discount on lodging and camping.
• AAA Membership Discounts: AAA members may receive discounts on lodge rooms, cottages, and potentially campsites.
• Kentucky Resident Rate: Kentucky residents may be eligible for up to 10% off lodging rates at state resort parks, which might extend to camping in some cases.
• Disabled Veterans Lodging Guidelines: Kentucky residents who are 100% disabled as a direct result of a service-connected incident may be eligible for free accommodation for a limited number of nights per year.

It's crucial to check the Kentucky State Parks website or call the campground directly (502) 348-3502 to confirm current rates, specific eligibility for discounts, and any seasonal promotions, especially given the ongoing renovations. Reservations are required and can be made by phone or online, up to a year in advance, with a reservation fee of $6. There is typically a one-night minimum stay during the week and a two-night minimum on peak season weekends.

For more information, reservations, or inquiries about My Old Kentucky Home Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 668 Loretto Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004, USA

Phone: (502) 348-3502

Mobile Phone: +1 502-348-3502

It is recommended to call during park office hours, typically in the daytime, to ensure direct communication with staff regarding current conditions, availability, and specific amenities, especially given the ongoing renovation project.

For Kentuckians seeking a campground that offers more than just a place to stay, My Old Kentucky Home Campground in Bardstown stands as an appealing choice. Its unparalleled location within a historic state park provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural tapestry of Bardstown, with the iconic My Old Kentucky Home mansion and the renowned Bourbon Trail just minutes away. This makes it an ideal "perfect location" for those who want to combine their love for the outdoors with exploring Kentucky's heritage and world-class distilleries.

While recent reviews acknowledge the challenge of unlevel sites and past issues with restroom cleanliness and noise, it's vital to consider the significant ongoing $4 million renovation project. This substantial investment, expected to be completed by late summer 2025, is specifically aimed at addressing these very concerns by providing upgraded full-service campsites and a modern bathhouse. This commitment to improvement demonstrates the park's dedication to enhancing the visitor experience, making it a promising destination for future visits. The availability of RV and tent sites, combined with access to state park activities like golf and hiking, ensures a versatile camping experience. For Kentucky residents who value history, convenience to local attractions, and the prospect of enhanced facilities in a state park setting, My Old Kentucky Home Campground offers a compelling reason to revisit or discover it for the first time.