Historic Sites, the Great Outdoors & More: Adventure Awaits in Campbellsville

Calling all nature enthusiasts – Green River Lake State Park is the place for outdoor recreation in Campbellsville, Kentucky! Spanning over 1,300 acres, this state park is located on the shores of the vast Green River Lake. Spend a day on the water (there are three marinas offering boat and jet ski rentals), cast a line for smallmouth bass, play a round on the 18-hole miniature golf course or take a hike on the 28 miles of trails. Love camping? Nothing beats a sunrise on the lakeshore.

If you want to learn more about the region, stop by the free Green River Lake Visitor’s Center. Here, you’ll find several exhibits highlighting Indigenous American artifacts and history, a 1,500-gallon fish aquarium and a beehive tree display where you can watch bees actively make honey. You can also see animals that live in the area like the midland painted turtle or black rat snake. Check out the on-site theater for a movie about Green River Lake and its history.

The Atkinson Griffin House Museum is adjacent to the Green Lake Visitor’s Center. Located in a former Civil War hospital, this two-story log cabin features several Civil War artifacts and old photographs. Check out the map and diorama of the Battle of Tebbs Bend. On the second floor, you’ll find the area where surgeons performed their life-saving procedures—the bloodstains still remain on the floor!

Are you traveling with horses? Quite Woods Green River Stables has you covered. This year-round campground features 90 full hookup sites. Saddle up and explore 30 miles of wooded trails at nearby Green River Lake State Park. Or, check out the dining and attractions in downtown Campbellsville, just 15 minutes away. In the evening, relax in the western camper lounge—the stables often host live music and karaoke.

A working farm for over 200 years, Homeplace on the Green River is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as “Kentucky’s Outdoor Classroom,” this 227-acre farm hosts educational programs and festivals throughout the year – stop by in September for the Fall Heritage Festival. Visitors can explore the seven miles of hiking trails on the property. Take a stroll on the Argarian Trail through 200 acres of cropland and views of the American Chestnut Nursery Orchard.

Northwest of Campbellsville, the Clay Hill Memorial Forest offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and native beauty. Once a part of the Clay Hill Farm (a former plantation and refuge for Civil War General John Hunt Morgan), this forest is now managed by Campbellsville University and home to interpretative hiking trails, a reconstructed slave cabin, a pond observation deck and a boardwalk.

This 65-acre park is one of Campbellsville’s sprawling green spaces. Play a round of golf on the par-3 course, practice your swing on the on-site pickleball and tennis courts, or enjoy the cornhole boards and horseshoe pits. This park also has a playground, a walking track and a charming gazebo – perfect for a picnic.

Tee off in style at the Campbellsville Country Club. With an 18-hole course and fantastic views of the Kentucky countryside, it’s a great spot to perfect your hole-in-one. Spend a morning on the driving range, check out the practice green or explore the grounds via golf cart. Looking to improve your game? Lessons are available with a golf pro.

Take the ultimate trip to the past on a self-guided driving tour of the Tebbs Bend-Green River Bride Battlefield site. This three-mile adventure has over 12 stops as you drive the route Civil War General John Morgan took after his small victory at the Battle of Tebbs Bend. See the artillery site, a Confederate cemetery, and the nearby Atkinson-Griffin Log House. You’ll also discover interpretative exhibits and hiking trails off the main loop.

Built in 1823, the Hiestand House-Taylor County Museum is a German stone house and one of twelve in Kentucky. A stunning example of federal-style architecture and hand-tooled stone masonry, this historical home showcases Kentucky’s architectural heritage (it was also raided by Civil War General John Morgan). Plan a visit and take a tour of the grounds and gardens. For a peek inside the house, schedule an appointment. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Take this guide on the go with Apple Maps on your iPhone!