Equestrian Experiences

Equestrian experiences abound in the Bluegrass State — the bright green grass perfect for grazing grows abundantly in our pastures. Go horseback riding through Daniel Boone National Forest or Mammoth Cave National Park. Tour a horse farm (more than 400 in the Lexington area alone!) and spend time with a titleholder-in-training or Kentucky Derby horses retired to stud. And don’t miss the high-stepping hoofbeats heard ‘round Shelbyville, the American Saddlebred Capital of the World, each August during the Shelbyville Horse Show.

From the legendary Kentucky Derby to the one-of-a-kind Kentucky Horse Park, it’s undeniable that Kentucky’s horse culture has the inside track.
The first Saturday in May attracts more than 150,000 fans to Churchill Downs to witness the Kentucky Derby, “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” but every day is Derby Day at the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville. Get hands-on with interactive exhibits, take in the 360-degree film and take a guided visit to the Churchill Downs track.

The renowned Louisville course isn’t the only place to hear and feel the thundering of hooves. Keeneland in Lexington is a National Historic Landmark; it’s hosted spring and fall thoroughbred races since the 1930s, and today spectators tailgate on “The Hill” with fare from food trucks while live bluegrass plays in the background.

Other horse racing courses are sprinkled around the state, and for something a little different check out harness racing at Red Mile Racetrack in Lexington. The second-oldest harness track in the world, the clay-course Red Mile attracts more than 18,000 fans to its season, July through the second week of October.

At the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, celebrate local horse heritage every day. See American Saddlebreds to Old Kentucky Saddlers being trained and groomed in the Breeds Barn. Admire retired racehorses in the Hall of Champions. Take a trail ride on horseback or saddle up the kids for pony rides. Attend equestrian events, including show jumping, dressage and polo.

Even if you don’t come to Kentucky a horse lover, you’ll almost certainly leave as one.

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Camping at Beaver Creek

Daniel Boone Country

Beaver Creek in Daniel Boone National Forest is a great camping spot and is easily accessible. Beaver Creek Campground is a simple yet beautiful spot not far from Glasgow, Kentucky that’s ideal for secluded, primitive camping.

Since it serves up twelve primitive spots along Barren River Lake, there are tons of activities that water-lovers will go nuts for here (think boating, fishing, and swimming), along with family-friendly amenities as well like a playground and picnic areas. It’s small and off the beaten path, so you won’t be bothered by crowds here. In fact, you may find yourself solo on the lake. The whole site is tent only, so RV-free sounds accommodate a true nature escape.

WHAT MAKES IT GREAT

For those that seek an experience in the outdoors that truly leaves the rest of the world behind, camping at Beaver Creek Campground really delivers. Yes, there’s a boat ramp, but the location in general is so out of the way that it never gets too crowded. Once night falls, a beautiful silence sets in. RVs aren’t allowed here, so you’ll really get back to the basics.

Don’t expect electricity hook ups, but there are restrooms available and for families with kids, it’s a great spot to be. There’s a playground to keep the little ones busy and plenty of picnic space for family meals in the great outdoors.
Perhaps the best thing about this place is the variety of activities the lake provides.

For those that can spend an entire day lazing around on a boat catching fish and hopping overboard for an occasional dip, you’ll love this place. Kayakers and canoeists will find a pleasant day here too—the lake space to boat ratio makes it more than hospitable to non-motorized adventures. Even those who want to skip the fishing and go straight for the swimming will love Barren River Lake and the beachy shores that surround it.

WHO IS GOING TO LOVE IT

Solitude-seeking campers, minimalist campers, solo adventurists, kayakers, canoeists, boaters, fisherman, swimmers, and families with kids of all ages will love this place—basically anyone that is looking for a little rest and relaxation will find something to enjoy here. Hikers can rejoice as well. Even though Beaver Creek Campground isn’t a five star hiking spot, there is plenty of open space to explore and you’re sure to encounter wildlife along the way.

DIRECTIONS, PARKING & REGULATIONS

From Glasgow, cruise south along Highway 31 East until Highway 252 where you’ll take a right. Just follow the signs that will direct you to a left onto Beaver Creek Road which will lead you to the campground.

Kentucky Horse Country