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Kentucky
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Kentucky State Parks

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Kentucky
Heartland Region
My Old Kentucky Home State Park
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MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME STATE PARK
MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME STATE PARK
501 East Stephen Foster Avenue
Bardstown, Kentucky   40004-0323

Phone: 502-348-3502
Reservations: 502-348-3502
Federal Hill was the inspiration for Stephen Foster?s famous ballad, My Old Kentucky Home.

Today, this Georgian-style mansion is as endearing to visitors as it was in 1852, the year Foster wrote what has become the official state song while visiting his cousins, the Rowan family. Step into the days of the antebellum South as costumed guides escort you through the stately mansion and formal gardens.

During summer months, the outdoor drama "Stephen Foster ?The Musical" is performed under the stars in the park?s amphitheater. In the wintertime, Christmas candlelight tours highlight the holidays when the mansion is adorned with holly, pine and fruit garlands.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseSwimming Beachyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
AccommodationsGolf Courseyes
Camping
Admire the beautifult grounds of My Old Kentucky Home in the 39-site campground. Convenience is guaranteed with utility hookups, a central service building housing showes and rest rooms, and a dump station. A grocery store and a laundry are nearby across the street from the park.

Open April through October. No advance reservations.Check-out by 2:00 PM, Eastern time. Pets are allowed if restrained.
Golf Course
Kenny Rapier Golf Course:

Enjoy a day on Kentucky?s rolling bluegrass as you test your golfing skills on the 18-hole, regulation golf course. A fully equipped pro shop caters to the golfer?s every need with rental clubs, pull carts, and riding carts. The complete redesign and reconstruction of the front nine holes, plus extensive irrigation and turf improvements on the back nine holes are finished and 18 holes are open for play. Project consultant was Fred Rux of Mobile, Ala. and Contractor was Golf Development Construction Inc. of Louisville. The course is named for Bardstown native and former Commissioner of Parks Kenny Rapier.

Course open year-round, weather permitting.


Location
My Old Kentucky Home State Park is located near Bardstown, Mount Washington and Shepherdsville

Picnicking
1. Picnic Tables: The park has numerous picnic tables scattered throughout the area where you can enjoy a meal in the great outdoors.

2. Picnic Shelters: There are also covered shelters available, perfect if you're looking to host a larger gathering or want some shade during your picnic.

3. Grills: Many of these areas have grills nearby so that guests can cook their own food while enjoying nature's beauty around them.

4. Open Fields and Gardens: You could lay out a blanket on one of many open fields or gardens within the park and set up an impromptu picnic spot there too!

5. Amphitheater Area: This is another popular place to eat outside especially when events are being held here.

6. The Golf Course: If golfing works up an appetite, feel free to stop by any grassy knoll along this 18:hole regulation course with bent grass greens for lunch break.

7. Campgrounds: For those who prefer camping experience, they may choose campsite as their preferred location.
Bicycling
In Kentucky's cherished park, biking options are plentiful. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain and weather conditions.

The park offers several bike trails suitable for different skill levels. Always wear a helmet when cycling in the area.

Some paths may be steep or rocky; ensure your bicycle has appropriate tires and brakes before embarking on these routes.

During rainy seasons, certain tracks can become muddy or slippery - extra care should be taken during such times.

Nighttime bicycling isn't recommended as visibility decreases significantly after sunset making it potentially dangerous for cyclists without proper lighting equipment.

Remember that wildlife sightings are common so always keep an eye out while riding through wooded areas of the park.

Lastly, respect all posted signs regarding trail closures or restrictions - they're there for everyone's safety!
Area Attractions
Visitor?s Center:

The new building serves as the main entry point for visitors to the popular tourism attraction, Federal Hill Mansion, "My Old Kentucky Home" of Stephen Foster?s ballad. Don?t miss your opportunity to tour Federal Hill, where the antebellum South comes to life in fascinating detail.

Tours are given from 9:00 AM -5:00 PM, Eastern time, June through August; and open daily 9:00 AM-4:45 PM rest of the year. Closed Thanksgiving Day, the week of Christmas, & New Year?s Eve and Day.

"Stephen Foster - The Musical:"

Experience the tradition of Kentucky?s longest-running outdoor drama. This celebrated musical features colorful period costumes, lively choreography, and more than 50 Foster songs, including his most famous ballad, "My Old Kentucky Home."

For more information and reservations call 1-800-626-1563 or visit The Stephen Foster Drama Association?s website, www.stephenfoster.com, $.

Christmas Candlelight Tours:

Sample the elegant past during the annual Christmas Candlelight Tours at My Old Kentucky Home. Holly, pine and fruit garlands, magnolia, and the glow of candlelight adorn the mansion in splendid 1800s fashion. Elaborate period holiday costumes, music and traditional refreshments make your visit even more memorable.

Candlelight tours are held Fridays and Saturdays for the three weekends following Thanksgiving. Hours are 5:30 PM-8:30 PM, Eastern time. Group rates available.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 20 Our Favorite place by Harold and Wanda
park review stars; one to five We take our vacation here every year we love the park and the town. It is so peaceful and beautiful. Thanks to all our park friends.
September 27 Beautiful by Wally B
park review stars; one to five Our second RV camping trip is coming up this weekend. First time was fantastic. So peaceful and relaxing. Beautiful country and state.
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