Horse Country!
Why Spencer County Should Be on Every Equestrian’s Radar
If you love horses and you’re anywhere near Spencer County, KY, you’re in for a treat. This area might not be as famous as Lexington, but it’s got plenty to offer for folks who want to ride, camp, or just enjoy the horse life.
Whether you’re a seasoned horse expert or just looking to reconnect with nature on horseback, Spencer County offers:
• Beautiful trails and campsites
• Legal road riding
• Local charm and quiet surroundings
• Easy access to Kentucky’s biggest horse events
Trail Riding at Taylorsville Lake
The big draw here is Taylorsville Lake State Park, which features a 24-mile trail system designed for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Riders can explore loops like Legends Run and Piney Woods, all set in beautiful Kentucky countryside.
You can bring your own horse or check out local stables like Free Spirit Ranch and Foothills Equestrian Center, which offer guided rides and lessons.
Horse Camping
Traveling with your horse? No problem. The Taylorsville Lake Horse Campground has 10 equestrian sites with water and electric hookups, plus access to laundry and bathhouses. It’s a great spot to settle in after a long day on the trails.
Reservations are encouraged but not required, and well-behaved pets are welcome too.
Small-Town Charm
After your ride, head into Taylorsville for a bite or a browse. The town offers cozy diners, local shops, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. It is also a charming base for exploring greater Kentucky’s equestrian scene.
Road Riding? Totally Legal!
Here’s something cool: in Kentucky, it’s legal to ride your horse on public roads, as long as you follow traffic laws. The only thing that’s specifically prohibited is racing your horse downhill on a highway. So yes—you can saddle up and take a scenic trot through town.
Scenic Drives Through Horse Country
Even if you’re not riding, Spencer County is surrounded by some of Kentucky’s most iconic horse country drives:
• Old Frankfort Pike: Known as “Thoroughbred Alley,” this 16-mile stretch showcases champion farms like Lane’s End and Three Chimneys.
• Bluegrass Parkway: A 70-mile corridor through Kentucky’s equestrian heartland, perfect for spotting breeding farms and rolling pastures.
These drives are ideal for soaking in the horse-loving spirit of the Bluegrass State.
The Perfect Base for Big Events
Want to attend a major horse show or equestrian event? Spencer County is a quiet, affordable place to stay while you explore nearby hotspots:
• Louisville (about 45 minutes away) hosts the World’s Championship Horse Show and the Kentucky Derby.
• Lexington (just over an hour away) is home to the Kentucky Horse Park, which features year-round events, clinics, and competitions.
You get the best of both worlds—peaceful trails and campgrounds in Spencer County, plus easy access to world-class horse events just down the road.
Resources
• Kentucky State Parks – Taylorsville Lake
• Taylorsville Lake Horse Campground Info
• Kentucky Revised Statutes – Horse Road Use
• Free Spirit Ranch – Taylorsville KY
• Foothills Equestrian Center – Spencer County
• Kentucky Horse Park Events Calendar
• World’s Championship Horse Show – Louisville