Why Film Here?

Spencer County offers authentic Kentucky charm with scenic landscapes, historic sites, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. From rolling farmland to Taylorsville Lake’s serene waters, this region provides diverse backdrops for period pieces, nature documentaries, and modern dramas.

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Top Filming Locations

• Taylorsville Lake State Park – 3,050-acre lake with wooded trails, open fields, and panoramic water views.
• Tree lined river tributaries with free public access.
• Historic Taylorsville Main Street – Quaint storefronts and vintage architecture.
• Felix Grundy Stidger Cabin – Civil War-era site under restoration.
• Van Buren (Lost Town Beneath Taylorsville Lake) – Story-rich location for historical narratives.
• Event Venues with Scenic Views – The View at Plum Creek, Overlook Event Center, The Barn at Magnolia Farm.

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Private Estates & Historic Homes

• Beechland, Bourne-Anderson House, All Saints Church, Spencer House, Vaucluse Historic House.
• Driscoll Estate, The Barn at Magnolia Farm, and numerous restored or weathered barns.
• Large acreage estates available via local real estate listings.

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Amenities & Resources for Film Crews

• Tourism – Film Concierge – Taylorsville-Spencer County Tourism: (502) 902-7039 | https://visittaylorsville.com
• Lodging – Edgewater Resort, Taylorsville RV Park, VRBO listings.
• Dining & Catering – Local eateries and seasonal food festivals.
• Equipment & Supplies – General stores, artisan shops, Heirloom Paints.

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Crew Lodging & Mobile Units

For productions requiring on-site accommodations, RV rentals are a convenient option for Taylorsville RV Park or Taylorsville Lake State Park.

RV Rental Contacts

• KY RV Rental – Travel trailers starting at $87/night | Delivery available
  Contact: (270) 805-9740 | https://kyrvrental.com
• McFarland Camper Rental – Short-term and long-term rentals | Full delivery and setup
  Contact: (859) 707-7244 | https://mcfarlandcamperrentalky.com
• RVshare – Peer-to-peer rentals with delivery options
  https://rvshare.com/rv-rental/taylorsville/ky
• Outdoorsy – Towable trailers and motorhomes
  https://www.outdoorsy.com/rv-rental/kentucky/taylorsville
• RVezy – Delivered RV setup at Taylorsville Lake State Park
  https://www.rvezy.com/campgrounds/destination/united-states/kentucky/taylorsville
• RVThereYet – Premium delivery service for motorhomes and toy haulers
  https://rvthereyet.com/taylorsville-lake-state-park/

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Free & Scenic Extras

• Waterford Community Park, nature classes, and Gourd Festival for cultural B-roll.

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Permits & Local Contacts

• Tourism Office: director@visittaylorsville.com
• Chamber of Commerce: (502) 477-8369

Looking for budget-friendly adventures the whole family can enjoy? Spencer County, KY is packed with free outdoor fun, hands-on experiences, and seasonal events that make memories without breaking the bank.

Waterford Community Park
Just five miles west of Taylorsville on Hwy 44, this gem is open from sunrise to sunset and features a playground, picnic shelter, restrooms, a 0.45-mile walking track, fitness stations, and fields for basketball, soccer, and softball. It’s perfect for a day of play and fresh air!

Taylorsville Lake Adventures
From scenic swimming trails off Overlook Road to boat-accessible swimming spots, Taylorsville Lake is a splash-worthy destination. Three public boat ramps offer free access for fishing, swimming, and boating—plus restrooms and parking!

Kitty Café at Spencer County Humane Society
Kids and cat lovers alike will adore this cozy lounge on Main Street, where you can cuddle adoptable kitties and maybe even find a furry friend to take home.

Seasonal Events & Festivals
Don’t miss Octoberfest Kids Zone, Trick or Treat on Main, and Christmas on Main—all free and full of games, crafts, parades, and holiday cheer. Foodyfest Kids Zone in September adds bounce houses, cooking classes, and kitty petting to the mix!

Creative & Educational Fun
Enjoy free nature classes at Taylorsville Lake State Park, gourd crafting at the Gourd Festival, and hands-on learning through Spencer County’s 4-H programs. There’s even a Digital History Project online for curious minds!

Spencer County is your go-to for free family adventures that blend nature, creativity, and community spirit. Pack a picnic, grab the kids, and come explore!

Here’s your guide to all the fun!

Spencer County, Kentucky offers a variety of free, family-friendly outdoor activities that make it easy to enjoy nature and community without spending a dime. From scenic trails to playgrounds and seasonal events, there’s something for every age group.

Taylorsville Lake State Park

This local gem provides free access to hiking trails, fishing piers, and two playgrounds near the campground. The park includes ADA-accessible trails and restrooms, making it a welcoming space for families with mobility needs. Bathhouses near the campground may include changing areas, though availability of baby changing pads is not guaranteed.

Waterford Community Park & Ray Jewell Memorial Park

These two parks are ideal for families with toddlers and young children. Both feature playgrounds, walking tracks, and sports fields. Public restrooms are available at each location, though changing pad availability may vary.

Spencer County Fairgrounds

Hosting seasonal festivals and community events, the fairgrounds often offer free admission. Events typically include access to portable restrooms or indoor facilities depending on the setup.

Downtown Taylorsville Walks

Families can enjoy self-guided walking tours, historic buildings, and small green spaces perfect for stroller breaks or a quick snack. While public restrooms are limited downtown, some local businesses and community buildings may offer facilities during events.

Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking for everyday options, Spencer County provides a welcoming and accessible environment for families to enjoy the outdoors together.

Public Parks

1. Waterford Community Park

• Location: Hwy 44, five miles west of Taylorsville
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Great for: Toddlers to teens
• Features:
  • Playground
  • Picnic shelter
  • Restrooms
  • 0.45-mile walking track
  • Fitness stations
  • Basketball court
  • Soccer & softball fields

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2. Ray Jewell Memorial Park

• Location: Ray Road off Hwy 44 East, across from Spencer County High School
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Great for: Toddlers to teens
• Features:
  • Playground
  • 0.55-mile walking track
  • Fitness stations
  • Basketball court
  • Baseball & soccer fields
  • Restrooms & concession stand

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3. Spencer County Fairgrounds

• Location: 895 Fairgrounds Road, Taylorsville, KY 40071
• Hours: Event-based (free to enter during many community events)
• Great for: All ages
• Features:
  • Seasonal festivals
  • Community events
  • Family-friendly gatherings

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Taylorsville Lake State Park

• Location: 1320 Park Road, Taylorsville, KY
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Cost: Free for day use
• Great for: All ages
• Features:
  • 2 playgrounds (near campground)
  • 24 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback trails
  • Fishing pier and boat ramps (free access)
  • Wildlife viewing and picnic shelters
  • ADA-accessible trails and restrooms

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Downtown Taylorsville Walks

• Location: Main Street and surrounding blocks
• Cost: Free
• Great for: Babies in strollers, kids, and teens
• Features:
  • Seasonal decorations
  • Historic buildings
  • Pocket rest areas and benches
  • Local shops and murals

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

•  Old Frankfort Pike Scenic Byway

•  Bluegrass Parkway Overview

Plan Your Perfect Food Adventure at Taylorsville Lake with “Spencer County Eats” on Google Maps

Whether you’re camping, boating, or just soaking up the scenic beauty of Taylorsville Lake, one thing’s for sure—you’re going to get hungry. And when that happens, you don’t want to waste time scrolling through endless reviews or driving around aimlessly. That’s where the “Spencer County Eats” Google Maps List comes in.

What Is “Spencer County Eats”?

It’s a curated Google Maps list featuring the best local restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and hidden gems in and around Taylorsville, KY. From down-home diners to authentic Mexican kitchens, this list is your go-to guide for discovering the tastiest spots in Spencer County.

Explore the list here: Spencer County Eats on Google Maps

Why Use It?

• Local Favorites Only: Every spot on the list is handpicked based on local love and flavor.
• Easy Navigation: Just open the list in Google Maps and get directions instantly.
• Perfect for Day Trips or Weekend Stays: Whether you’re staying at the lake or passing through, you’ll find something delicious nearby.

What Can You Expect to Find?

Here’s a preview of some of the local flavor:

• La Fogata Mexican Kitchen – Handmade tortillas and authentic street food.
• Lynda’s Grill – Classic American comfort food with a hometown vibe.
• Fresh Take Market – A bakery and deli with fresh, local ingredients.
• Revival Coffee Company – A cozy spot for coffee, pastries, and good vibes.
• Fiesta Mexicana – A vibrant spot for seafood and Mexican favorites.

Pair Your Meal with an Adventure

After a morning of kayaking or hiking, treat yourself to a hearty lunch. Or grab a coffee before heading out on the lake. With “Spencer County Eats,” you can plan your entire day around great food—no guesswork required.

How to Use the List

1. Open Google Maps on your phone.
2. Tap this link: Spencer County Eats
3. Tap “Follow” to save it to your account.
4. Start exploring.

Phone: (502) 390-6547

Address: 4891 Taylorsville Rd, Taylorsville, KY 40071

Hours: Daily 11AM-9PM

Discover the Heart of Mexico at La Fogata Mexican Kitchen in Taylorsville, KY

Tucked in next to a gas station on Taylorsville Road, La Fogata Mexican Kitchen is full of surprises—it’s a culinary experience that brings the soul of Mexico to the heart of Kentucky. La Fogata stands out with its authentic recipes, handmade tortillas, and a menu that feels like a warm hug from abuela’s kitchen.

La Fogata prides itself on traditional Mexican street food and home-style dishes. From gorditas and huaraches to rich broths and sopes, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity. The tortillas are handmade daily, and the flavors are bold, earthy, and deeply satisfying.

What Locals Are Saying

TripAdvisor customers can’t stop raving about their experiences:

“Excellent Mexican food. Without a doubt, with the taste of home.”
“Handmade tortillas, a variety of broths, gorditas, sopes, huaraches, burritos, quesadillas.”
“One of the best Mexican restaurants in the USA. A hidden gem.”
These aren’t just reviews—they’re love letters to a restaurant that’s doing things the right way.

More Than a Meal—It’s a Cultural Experience

La Fogata isn’t just about food—it’s about celebrating Mexican culture. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with vibrant décor and friendly service that makes you feel like part of the family. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the experience is always memorable.

Visit La Fogata

Located at 4891 Taylorsville Road, La Fogata is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. Whether you’re craving a hearty burrito, a comforting bowl of caldo, or a plate of tacos that taste like they came straight from Mexico City, this is the place to be.

El Lago Bar & Grill
(502)-354-9154
https://ellagobarandgrill.com
100 Tanglewood Drive, Taylorsville, KY, 40071

Dining al fresco in Kentucky can be hit-or-miss with the weather, but El Lago has mastered the art of patio comfort for three seasons straight. Their inviting outdoor space pairs perfectly with a full bar—think top-tier margaritas—and a vibrant menu featuring traditional Mexican fare with a modern twist. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion, grabbing a quick work lunch, or unwinding after a day on the lake, El Lago is a local go-to. Add in live music on the weekends, and it’s easy to see why. Don’t forget to join their mailing list to stay in the loop on events and upcoming online ordering.

Word of mouth still reigns as the most trustworthy recommendation for a movie, hair stylist, piano teacher etc, but organic reviews are a pretty close second. As a Tourism Director I am often combing through a mess of bot generated reviews to see if I can figure out whats going on with a locations wins or losses. Every once in a while I strike gold, and today, I did! I stumbled upon the Trip Advisor reviews of the sweet little Overlook Event Center at the Edgewater Resort. I know personally that Amy (the Edgewater Manager) is awesome. She is a great local advocate, super community oriented, organized, straight-forward and such a force for good, but you always wonder if it gets noticed. Well, girl, it does. Cheers to Amy and her events at the Overlook. I’m so proud to work with you in Spencer County and so proud to show off your reviews to anyone wanting to plan their special events here too.

Hugs,

The Taylorsville Marina is open! Usually open from May to October, we’ve had a LOT of time planning for boating excursions. And I mean A LOT! So of course we used our handy Pinterest board to get organized. Its the best way to make sure all mixers get packed! Right?

Enjoy our fun plans and join in! (Click image below.)

See you on the water!

Beneath the tranquil surface of Taylorsville Lake lies the ghost of a once-thriving Kentucky
community—Van Buren, a small unincorporated town that now lives on only in memory, history books,
and the ripples of the Salt River.

A Town with Deep Roots
Located about 15 miles from Taylorsville, Van Buren was a quiet rural town with homes, a general
store, and a Church of Christ that served as the heart of the community. Though small, it was a place
where families farmed, worshipped, and gathered for generations.

The Flood That Changed Everything
In 1974, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began construction on what would become Taylorsville
Lake, a man-made reservoir designed for flood control, water supply, and recreation. As part of the
project, the entire town of Van Buren was dismantled and relocated to higher ground.
– Homes and the general store were moved.
– The Church of Christ, however, became stuck on a muddy hill and was ultimately abandoned.
– Graves from the town cemetery were respectfully relocated to Valley Cemetery on Mt. Washington
Road.
By 1983, the dam was completed, and the Salt River was flooded—submerging Van Buren forever
beneath the lake’s 3,050 acres of water.

Echoes of the Past
Though the town is gone, its legacy lives on. Some of the relocated families still reside in Spencer
County, and stories of Van Buren are passed down through generations. The lake itself has become a
vital part of the local economy, drawing anglers, boaters, and nature lovers from across the region.

A Tribute in Timber: Van Buren Village
Just a few miles away in Anderson County, a private historic site called Van Buren Village pays tribute
to Kentucky’s rural past. Created by Dr. Jerry Phelps, this recreated 1850s village features:
– Authentic log cabins rescued from across the state
– A country store and apothecary filled with period items
– A vision of what life in Van Buren might have looked like before the flood
Though not open to the public, Van Buren Village stands as a quiet homage to the lives once lived
along the Salt River.
WEKU Feature on Van Buren Village: https://www.weku.org/off-the-beaten-path-with-sam-dick/2022-1
0-27/van-buren-village-anderson-county-log-cabins-hidden-from-public-view-document-kentuckys-history
Remembering Van Buren in Images
Though the town of Van Buren now rests beneath Taylorsville Lake, its memory lives on through
photos, reconstructions, and digital archives:
– Vintage Photos of Van Buren
– Van Buren Village (Recreated 1850s Settlement)
– Taylorsville Lake History
See images of the lost town of Van Buren:
Pinterest Collection: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/366973069611607470/
TaylorsvilleCottage.com – Lake History: https://www.taylorsvillecottage.com/taylorsville-lake-kentucky.html