Shepherdsville is a great location to explore Kentucky’s amazing Bourbon Trail. It’s also just south of Louisville offering all the big city comforts. Unfortunately, COVID-19 restrictions were in full effect. Restaurants, events, Bourbon tasting rooms, or any social gatherings were closed while the country’s health care system prepared for a possible worsening pandemic scenario. From Cave City, Kentucky it was an easy drive north to Shepherdsville.
Shepherdsville, KOA
There were not many RV park options in this area that offered full service and wifi. Because of the coronavirus, the park was less than half full. We had a huge end pull through site that was private with plenty of squirrels for Jake to watch. When I started Residency Training at the University of Louisville 34 years ago I was broke. My 1970 VW bug limped into town. Couldn’t afford an apartment until the first couple of paychecks cleared, so I had a tent site at this KOA for a couple of months. Eventually, I could put money down on a house to rent. It was a bit awkward to come out of a tent in the morning wearing a tie and white physician’s coat. Never-the-less it was an extremely exciting time and my living situation was only a minimal annoyance given my excitement about starting residency. I never could have imagined staying here again in a motorhome while retired. Life throws some unusual surprises every now and then.
Bernheim Forest
Kentucky has an incredible number of state parks and rivers. It also has a number of National Parks, Recreation Areas, Prairie, Forest, and Historical Parks. Bernheim Forest is a necessary getaway for those in the Louisville area when a bit of open space is needed.
It’s still early for spring blooms but the magnolia, plum, and cherry trees were at their peak.
This Star Magnolia is slow growing and native to Japan. It’s flowers can be white or pink.
Plum blossoms.
Cherry tree in full bloom.
Pink magnolia.
Butterfly magnolia.
The Forest Giants trail is a 3 mile round trip trail to see a few huge sculptures.
Along the way there are some beautiful sites. Bernheim has over 16,000 acres. The park was a gift by Isaac Bernheim to the people of Kentucky.
A stones throw from Bernheim is Jim Beam. Maybe we will have the opportunity to take a tour the next time we pass through Kentucky.
I will always love Kentucky and consider it one of the places I call home.
