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My Old Kentucky Home
Overview
Nestled in the heart of the "Bourbon Capital of the World," the campground at My Old Kentucky Home State Park offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. This state-managed facility provides a peaceful retreat for RVers looking to explore the rolling hills of Kentucky. The sites are generally paved and offer a level foundation for a variety of rig types. Unlike bustling commercial resorts, this park emphasizes a tranquil atmosphere and proximity to the famous Federal Hill mansion, making it a staple destination for those seeking a deep connection to Kentucky’s heritage and the legacy of Stephen Foster.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated right in Bardstown, KY, consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful small towns in America. The campground is surrounded by lush woodlands and meticulously manicured grounds that feel world-removed despite being minutes from local conveniences. Travelers will find themselves immersed in a landscape of mature trees and open greenspace. The proximity to historic downtown Bardstown allows for easy exploration of local distilleries, boutique shops, and charming eateries that define the region's cultural identity.
Amenities & Park Features
While the park maintains a classic state park feel, it provides essential comforts for the modern RVer. The campground features 39 sites equipped with utility hookups including water and electricity. The utility hookups support 30 and 50-amp service, accommodating most standard recreational vehicles. Visitors have access to a central service building that houses clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. For those traveling with families, the site offers a playground. A central dump station is conveniently located for guest use, ensuring a practical stay for those in self-contained units.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the historic Federal Hill mansion, where guided tours provide insight into 19th-century life and the inspiration for the state song. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the 18-hole Kenny Rapier Golf Course located on-site. During the summer months, the outdoor amphitheater hosts The Stephen Foster Story, a long-running musical drama. Beyond the park gates, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail beckons, with world-renowned distilleries like Heaven Hill and Willett located just a short drive away, offering tastings and immersive tours.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal choice for history buffs and bourbon enthusiasts who want a centralized home base for exploring Nelson County. It caters perfectly to travelers who prefer a smaller, more intimate campground over sprawling commercial parks. It is best suited for mid-sized RVs and trailers looking for a quiet, scenic environment. Families and couples who appreciate evening strolls through historic grounds and easy access to cultural performances will find this state park to be a highlight of their Kentucky journey.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Katherine Vande Brake
Wonderful place to visit to understand Kentucky history and the family that hosted their cousin Stephen Foster at their “Kentucky Home.” Wood work in this mansion is so beautiful.
Thomas Maguire
My Wife and I visited the mansion for the Shadows on the Hill program for the third time this past weekend. As always the actors did a terrific job of providing a history of the property and the tragedies that have occurred there. We were also finally able to attend the program on 19th Century Funerary Customs. Our Guide Kit did a great job on this one as well and her depth of knowledge on the topic was very impressive.
Lynda C
I'm a Kentuckian, born and raised. I was in Bardstown for another event in August and after 66 years, I figured I might as well visit My Old Ky Home. I was not disappointed! The visitors center is well kept and offers a video of Stephen Foster which is VERY INFORMATIVE. The staff at the center were very nice and hospitable. I was pleased to learn that the history of slaves on the 'once plantation' was well represented. The tour of the 'home' was exceptional. It was truly like stepping back into that time. The tour guides, Jose and Richard, were exceptional! They were very well versed in facts and were eager to answer questions that my sister and I had. They made our whole visit well worth it. Thanks go out to Jose and Richard for doing such a great job! I TOTALLY recommend the visit for young and old (however if you are older, I think you appreciate it more).
H Halverson
Great historical tour at My old Kentucky Home. They have people who walk you through the first and second floor and explain the history of each item. It was informative and interesting. No photos or videos are allowed inside.
Lalo Perez
We recently visited My Old Kentucky Home State Park and took the guided tour of the historic home — an experience that was both beautiful and deeply moving. Our guide, Kit, was passionate and incredibly knowledgeable about the history of this exceptional place. She shared the story with grace, warmth, and genuine enthusiasm, especially when speaking about her hero, Rebecca Carnes Rowan, whose life she recounted with great care and admiration. The most unforgettable moment came when Kit sang “My Old Kentucky Home” in parts, explaining the meaning and history behind each verse as she went. As one of the professional actors in The Story of Stephen Foster, she sang with remarkable talent and emotion, bringing the song — and the history — to life in a way that touched us deeply. The grounds of the home, with their old and towering trees, offer a sense of peace while also carrying a somber weight — a quiet reminder of the difficult history of slavery connected to this place. This balance of beauty and historical truth made our visit even more meaningful.
