Department of Parks
Kentucky Parks Launch Campground Reservation System

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Campers can choose from nearly 3,000 sites at 32 different state parks -- including the Kentucky Horse Park -- as the Kentucky Parks Department’s campground reservation system launches today. Reservations can be made by calling 1-888-4KYPARK  and via the Internet at www.parks.ky.gov or www.ReserveAmerica.com, starting Feb. 15.

In the past, spaces at the campgrounds throughout Kentucky’s parks were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The uncertainty of that system discouraged many potential visitors. Park officials expect the new system to result in better use of the campgrounds, particularly those that have been under utilized.

Guests can reserve their sites up to a year in advance with a credit card. Reservations are allowed for stays of up to two weeks.  Longer stays require a park manager’s approval. Sites that haven’t been reserved will continue to be available to “drop in” campers. A fee will be assessed for all canceled reservations.

“This system is in response to guest demand and the best practices of the industry,” said Dan Maenza, Director of Customer Service for the parks. "The fact that we were able to gather all this information and present it so quickly and so well is a great tribute to our employees. We’ve tried to do everything we can to help our guests through this transition.”

ReserveAmerica’s system allows campers to search for sites by features such as proximity to woods, water, and electrical hookups. The company has more than 8 million consumers utilize its service each year and has processed more than 25 million reservations for state and federal agencies. Campers can reserve from over 3,000 parks with more than 150,000 campsites.

The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 52 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Commerce Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. Each year, Kentucky parks draw 7 million visitors and contribute $317 million to the economy. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our Web site at http://www.parks.ky.gov