15 BEST Things To Do Near Mammoth Cave (By A Local!) 2024
Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest-known cave system in the world and is a treasured natural resource in our home state of Kentucky! With about 52,000 acres, Mammoth Cave is on the “smaller” sized scale of national parks, but don’t let that fool you. There are so many fun things to do near Mammoth Cave.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family, or a group of friends, explore the Mammoth Cave area with our guide to the best Mammoth Cave attractions and adventures around Mammoth Cave National Park!
As lifelong Kentucky residents, Sara and I have visited Mammoth Cave several times. My family had a cabin at Nolin Lake, and we made a few fun day trips to Mammoth Cave and Lincoln’s Birthplace over the years. Sara and I visited during college and several times afterward to share this magnificent underground wonderland with our kids! More recently, we have camped in our giant fifth wheel at nearby campgrounds (more on that later).
Discover the historic tour options and unique outdoor activities that make Mammoth Cave a great place for a family trip or a first-time visit…And the insider local scoop on things to do, where to stay, and when to visit! Let’s jump into our 15 things to do near Mammoth Cave!
TL;DR: Top Picks for Mammoth Cave Adventures & Stays
Plan your ultimate Mammoth Cave adventure with our top activity and accommodation recommendations!
Must-Do Activities:
- Take a Cave Tour: Explore the depths of the world’s longest cave system with a guided adventure through Mammoth Cave.
- Take a Bourbon Tour: Savor the rich flavors of Kentucky’s legendary bourbon with a tour along the historic Bourbon Trail.
- Hike the Miles of Trails: Explore the natural beauty surrounding Mammoth Cave with a variety of scenic trails suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Top Hotel Choices:
- Hampton Inn: For a touch of modern comfort and convenience, perfectly placed for all your Mammoth Cave expeditions.
- Grand Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast: Indulge in the charm of a bygone era with luxurious accommodations and personalized service.
15 Things To Do Near Mammoth Cave
Before jumping into these 15 things to around Mammoth Cave, let’s share how we developed our list:
- Sara and I talked about the adventures we had that we enjoyed the most
- We explored a few adventures we want to try on our next trip to Mammoth Cave (e.g., we did the research for you!)
- And of course, we asked our family experts…Our Kids!!!
These teen and pre-teen-approved ideas are sure to be a hit. National Park Service park rangers offer great tours and accessible trails within the park boundaries.
Insider Tip: Mix and match several of these adventures and have a super trip to Mammoth Cave National Park.
Note – we did not include transportation costs or meals in the overall cost of the adventure.
1. Mammoth Cave Tours: Explore the world’s longest cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park, offering different tours to cater to various interests and abilities
Getting Here: Mammoth Cave is located in Mammoth Cave, KY
The maze of underground caverns at Mammoth Cave stretches over 426 miles. Yes, this is an insane amount of mileage underground. Fear not, though — most cave tours are less than 3 miles, and several are less than 1 mile. Mammoth Cave is the star attraction of the area, making it the top of our list of things to do around Mammoth Cave.
Trying to rank the best cave tour in Mammoth Cave is like trying to pick your favorite child. Each tour is special in its own way.
- If this is your first trip underground and you’re apprehensive about going underground, the Discovery Tour (self-guided) might be the way to go. [0.5hrs; 0.75miles; 135 stairs]
- If being underground sounds fun, we recommend the Domes & Dripstones, which will lead explorers to one of the most coveted sections of the cave, The Frozen Niagra! [2hrs; 0.75miles; ~650 stairs]
- If you have disabilities, you might prefer the Accessible Tour [2 hrs; 0.5 miles; no stairs]. Please confirm with the National Park when booking this tour because as of December 2024 the elevator was out of service.
Don’t forget a comfortable pair of hiking shoes like the Keen boots we wear, and a comfortable Osprey Daypack.
Winter Fun – Keep your eyes open for Kentucky’s Frost Flowers along the road side! These delicate flowers are really frozen water vapor wrapped around tall wild grasses. Each frost flower is unique!
Insider Tip: Mammoth Cave National Park is FREE to enter and explore the trails above ground. Entry into Mammoth Cave requires a PAID ticket. The cost varies by cave tour option. Most tickets are under $30 per person. Extreme cave exploration tours are more expensive and we recommend checking the Mammoth Cave National Park website to verify availability and cost.
Know Before You Go: Cave tour tickets sell out in advance. Plan ahead! Book before your trip!
When is the Best Time to Visit Mammoth Cave?
Summer is the most popular time to visit. The cool cave air (54 degrees Fahrenheit year-round) makes for a refreshing afternoon in the Kentucky heat. We enjoy visiting in the fall because the crowds are smaller, and the fall foliage is beautiful on the miles of hiking trails!
Mammoth Cave is open 24 hours a day year-round, making it the best option for a flexible visit schedule. The visitor center and cave tours have more limited hours based on the season (winter closing time is 4:30PM, and summer closing time is 6PM). Please note that Mammoth Cave is located in the Central Time Zone.
2. Kayak through Mammoth Cave National Park on the Green River
Did you know Kentucky is home to FIRST National Water Trail? Over 30 miles of River Trails are available inside Mammoth Cave. The Green and Nolin Rivers run through Mammoth Cave. Seven public access points allow explorers to launch canoes or kayaks for a river adventure.
Whether floating down the Green River or paddling on the Nolin River, explorers are treated to one-of-a-kind views that are available only from the waterway. Some of the activities available on the National Water Trail include fishing (with a permit is permitted), camping on islands, floodplains, or in the developed campground, and watching nature and the breathtaking landscapes as you pass through Mammoth Cave National Park.
Don’t forget your life jacket! Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) are required at all times inside Mammoth Cave National Park.
Three tour guides offer kayaking and canoe adventures along the National Water Trail:
All three offer similar experiences at similar price points. Trips start around $60 for a single canoe or kayak rental and shuttle service. Longer trips including overnight camping trips are available. Have your own boat? Shuttle services are available. Contact your river outfitter of choice to arrange transportation in advance.
Make sure you’re prepared with the best kayaking gear like life jacket and dry bags for your river adventure.
Important Info: Both the Green and Nolin Rivers are considered Class I which means there are no rapids. Paddling down the rivers requires physical exertion. Depending on the water levels, explorers may have to paddle more or less. Check the water levels HERE.
3. Experience the Thrill of American Innovation at the National Corvette Museum
Getting here: The Corvette Museum is located in Bowling Green, KY
Step off the trails and into the fast lane at the National Corvette Museum, located just across the street from the very facility where Corvettes are born in Bowling Green. Dive into the heart-pounding history of America’s greatest sports car—the Corvette. This museum isn’t just a display of classic cars; it’s a celebration of the Corvette’s role in shaping American culture and the spirit of innovation.
Witness the evolution of speed, style, and performance with meticulously maintained exhibits showcasing the transition from the Corvette’s early days to its latest cutting-edge designs. Feel the adrenaline as you explore interactive exhibits like the infamous sinkhole—the dramatic moment when nature reclaimed eight iconic Corvettes, now a legendary part of the museum’s story.
For history buffs, speed seekers, and everyone who cherishes the American dream on wheels, the National Corvette Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into how the Corvette carved its path into the heart of American culture. Come marvel at these engineering masterpieces and get a behind-the-scenes look at the car that redefined what it means to drive fast.
South Central Kentucky is home to massive caves and sinkholes. Sometimes the earth opens up and swallows everything above. Watch some Corvettes get swallowed in this giant sinkhole!
The sinkhole exhibit was one of our favorites on our day trip from Louisville.
Don’t just read about history—race through it at the National Corvette Museum!
Journey through the high-octane history of America’s favorite sports car—book your tickets now for the National Corvette Museum!
4. Kentucky Bourbon: Only in Kentucky
Getting here: The Bourbon Trail Officially starts at Frazier History Museum in Louisville, KY.
While bourbon can be crafted in any state meeting the iconic spirit’s strict standards, aficionados agree: nothing compares to authentic Kentucky Bourbon. What makes it the undisputed champion? The secret lies beneath the surface—Kentucky’s limestone-filtered water and its unique seasonal climates create the perfect conditions for crafting the richest flavors.
Feeling the urge to indulge in these unparalleled spirits? Head to Bardstown, KY, the pulsing heart of the Southern Bourbon Trail, where tradition and quality meet in every distillery.
Pro Tip: We recommend a tour at Lux Row in Bardstown, KY, where you can witness bourbon-making artistry in action.
Dive into the deep heritage of America’s native spirit—start your bourbon adventure in Kentucky, where every sip tells the story of craftsmanship and tradition.
Kick off your Bourbon Trail journey at the Frazier History Museum, the gateway to exploring Kentucky’s legendary distilleries—book your Bourbon Trail tour today and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant flavors of America’s native spirit!
Trivia Fact: Kentucky Limestone helps make Kentucky Thoroughbreds strong and fast. Minerals from the Limestone are in the grass the horses eat and the water they drink! #GiddyUp!
5. Go To the Lake: Barren River Lake State Resort
Getting here: Barren River Lake State Resort is located HERE
Celebrate nature at Barren River Lake State Resort, a highlight among the Mammoth Cave area attractions. Barren offers so many fun activities like:
- Swimming from the beach or in the pool (for lodge guests)
- Playing golf on the award-winning 18-hole golf course
- Fishing
- Boating (rentals are available)
- Hiking
Barren River’s Louie B. Nunn Lodge offers lakefront rooms with a private view of this beautiful 10,000-acre lake. Cabins are available if you prefer more exclusive accommodations.
The 18-hole golf course is along the lakefront and offers golfers plenty of challenge from any set of tees. An added bonus are the views of the lake from the course!
Powerboating offers hours of family fun in the sun and lake surf. Pontoon boat rentals are available from the Barren River State Dock.
6. Fly Through the Trees! Zipline Adventures In Mammoth Cave
Getting here: Adventures of Mammoth Cave Zipline Tours is located HERE
Fly like a bird through the forest canopy with Adventures in Mammoth Cave Zipline tours. This 1-hour tour will thrill you as you zip down 5 zip lines at speeds up to 40 miles per hour!
Ziplining is a family favorite. No matter how often I step off the platform’s safety, that moment of ultimate trust is thrilling!
7. Cave Tour Alternatives to Mammoth Cave
Let’s face it: sometimes we forget to plan on our trips and show up and the thing we wanted to see is sold out! Well, you’re getting lucky in Kentucky because Cave City, KY is Cave Capital of Kentucky.
Explore Diamond Caverns and Hidden River Cave for alternative adventures, which are perfect if Mammoth Cave tours are fully booked. We recommend exploring Crystal Onyx Cave. Crystal Onyx Cave offers an hour-long tour of the cave. The smaller tour size allows their guides to share tons of details and history about the cave.
In the area, there are 21 cave tours, including 2 handicap-accessible tours. This should satisfy a question you have about if “if you’ve seen one cave, you’ve seen one cave” is true!
8. Kangaroos in Kentucky? Kentucky Down Under
Getting here – Kentucky Down Under is located HERE
Kentucky Down Under brings the wildlife of the Australian Outback to Kentucky. Bill and Judy Austin, owners of Kentucky Down Under, built this attraction to share some of their homeland (Judy is from Australia) with Kentucky. I like the play on words in Kentucky’s land of “down under” ground in the Cave Capital of Kentucky.
Exhibits at Kentucky Down Under include an Outback with Kangaroos, The Land of Lorries, where Lorries will fly up and land on your shoulder as they seek a tasty snack, petting zoo, Mammoth Onyx Cave, and an animal show (picture show and tell). Additional charges apply to feed the Kangaroos and Lorries.
Kentucky Down Under is open daily from 9 to 4 PM Central Time.
“Great hands-on animal experience. The staff treated my family great. Better than any big city zoo. Will definitely be back.” Donald from Trip Advisor.
9. Savor Crackerjacks and America’s Pastime: BG Hot Rods
Getting here – Bowling Green Hot Rods baseball’s home is located HERE
Summer is the perfect season for baseball. Enjoy an evening at the ballpark in Bowling Green!
The Bowling Green Hot Rods are the High-A affiliate team for the Tampa Bay Rays. Minor league baseball is like baseball the way it was meant to be. Players hustling to make first base, a trip to the concession stand for ice cream in the souvenir batting helmet, and affordable family fun!
Check the Hot Rods schedule for dates the team is playing at home.
Insider Tip: Use Big Deals Bowling Green to purchase discounted tickets!
Just north in Louisville, you can find the world’s largest bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum.
10. Historic Rail Park & Train Museum
Getting here – The L&N Historic Rail Park & Trail Museum is located HERE
Step back in time at the L&N Depot, a historical gem that played a crucial role in the growth of Bowling Green and the surrounding areas. Built in 1925, this historic train depot has been a gateway for countless travelers drawn to the Cave Capital of Kentucky. Today, it offers families a unique opportunity to connect with history through its engaging displays.
Kids and train buffs alike will be thrilled to explore authentic locomotives from the 1930s, luxurious Pullman cars, and even a Presidential Railroad car that’s steeped in history. While we don’t offer rides, the sheer scale and intricate details of these historic trains provide a fascinating experience that ignites the imagination of young and old.
The L&N Historic Rail Park & Museum is your ticket to a journey through time, open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. Make sure to check our schedule as our tour times begin on the quarter past each hour—perfect for planning a day out that your family will remember for years to come.
Don’t miss this chance to share a piece of American rail history with your family—visit today!
Secure your journey into history with exclusive early bird tickets to the L&N Historic Rail Park & Museum—perfect for families and train enthusiasts eager to explore America’s rail heritage in advance!
11. Louisville Slugger
Getting here – Louisville Slugger Museum is located HERE
Why did Louisville Slugger become famous? In 1894, Bud Hillerich turned a bat for Pete Browning. When Pete broke his hitting slump using one of Bud Hillerich’s hand-turned bats, he proclaimed this is a Louisville Slugger! And the legendary American brand was formed!
Take the tour of Louisville Slugger to see a block of maple, birch, or ash get transformed into the tool countless professional baseball players rely on to crank out home runs!
Tours are offered 6 days a week Monday to Friday 9 to 5 PM Eastern Time and Saturday 10 to 4 PM.
Check the Louisville Slugger official website for more information.
Free Things To Do Near Mammoth Cave
Jack shared a joke with me…He said, “Dad, you’re the cheapest dad in the world.” To which I replied, “I’m not buying that!”
National Parks are fabulous natural wonders offering many fun exploration and learning opportunities. Here are some of our top FREE adventures near Mammoth Cave!
12. Horse Cave Walking Tour
Getting Here: Horse Cave Walking Tours are located HERE
Stop in Horse Cave for a walking tour around the the town stopping at locations that shaped this town built on top of a cave! The 20 stops tell the stories of how the town has been influenced by tobacco farming, cave wars!, the Harlem Globetrotters, and more! The tour takes about 30 minutes and is uniquely Kentucky!
13. Let’s Go On A Hike!
Getting Here: Mammoth Cave’s Visitor Center is located HERE
Over 80 miles of trails await hikers of all skill levels to get out and explore Mammoth Cave. Hiking trails range from gentle paths around beautiful lakes (Sloan’s Crossing Pond Trail) to rugged backcountry trails (Big Hallow Loop Trails). We like keeping our hikes around 5 miles or less.
Cedar Sink Trail is a favorite of ours because it offers an impressive rock overhang and a magnificent view of the sink. A sink is a giant sinkhole that leads to the world of caves below. Don’t try to sneak into Mammoth Cave from here!
For more easy family hiking trails in Mammoth Cave head on over to our Mammoth Cave National Park hiking guide.
14. How Many Stars Can You Count? Explore Night Skies with NPS Park Rangers [Ranger-Led Programs]
Getting Here: Dark sky programs begin at the Mammoth Cave’s Visitor Center is located HERE
Mammoth Cave’s remote location provides dark skies for viewing countless stars, planets, and even the international space station! Good news a telescope is not necessary to have an awesome time checking out the starry skies.
We recommend using the “Planets” app available on Apple and Android for FREE. Simply point your phone at the night sky and see the constellation you are looking at.
A couple of tips for getting the best view of the night skies:
- Use a red light flashlight if you need some light to move around
- Give your eyes time to adjust to the dark
- Find the darkest and most open place possible
Know Before You Go: Check the Mammoth Cave National Park website to verify park rangers are leading the night sky program.
Quick Tip: Turn off lights you’re not using to help reduce light pollution and preserve the night sky!
15. Learn How Kentucky Shaped Abe Lincoln’s Life and Our Nation! Visit Lincoln’s Birthplace
Getting Here: President Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace Visitor Center is located HERE
President Lincoln developed his deep-seated anti-slavery as a young boy living in Hodgenville, KY. Witnessing slaves being marched to the market for sale left a deep impression on young Lincoln that shaped his life in ways that forever changed our country.
Lincoln’s birthplace is a short drive from Mammoth Cave National Park and worth a few hours to see this beautiful property and understand how Kentucky helped propel our nation forward!
Lincoln’s Birthplace has picnic areas, hiking trails, and the original Lincoln Memorial.
Our recent YouTube video from our Presidents Day visit shares this historic site’s highlights.
Where To Stay Near Mammoth Cave
Find the perfect retreat with our guide to the best places to stay near Mammoth Cave, catering to all budgets and preferences. Mammoth Cave National Park is located close to several towns that offer a variety of lodging accommodations, including luxury brands like Omni, Four Seasons, and Loewes. Those brands are typically outside of our travel budget, so we have some other great options included in our guide, including some RV Campgrounds and luxury glamping accommodation choices!
📍Budget Option: Baymont by Wyndham Cave City
Looking for an affordable stay without compromising on quality? Consider the Baymont by Wyndham in Cave City.
As part of the trusted Wyndham group, you can expect consistent quality and reliable safety standards. Perfect for families and solo travelers alike, this hotel offers essential amenities like a swimming pool, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi—all just a 15-minute drive from Mammoth Cave National Park.
Enjoy a comfortable, secure, and budget-friendly stay with room rates typically under $100 per night before taxes. The Baymont by Wyndham is your gateway to explore the wonders of Mammoth Cave without stretching your wallet.
Score the best value for your money at Baymont by Wyndham Cave City and make your Mammoth Cave visit unforgettable.
📍Mid-Range Option: Sleep Inn & Suites in Cave City is our Mid-Range Option
Nestled just 15 minutes from the sprawling landscapes of Mammoth Cave National Park, the Sleep Inn & Suites in Cave City offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your adventure-packed getaway. Here’s why you should book your stay:
- Indulge in Relaxation: Dive into our inviting indoor pool or keep up with your fitness regime at our well-equipped exercise center.
- Start Your Day Right: Enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, the perfect fuel for your park explorations.
- Stay Connected: With free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, you can easily plan your adventures or catch up on emails.
All these amenities are available for under $125 per night, making the Sleep Inn & Suites a superb choice for travelers seeking quality accommodations without the luxury price tag. Make your Mammoth Cave experience a comfortable and memorable one—book your stay at Sleep Inn & Suites today!
Get the best value for your money at Sleep Inn & Suites Cave City—comfort and convenience near Mammoth Cave.
📍Luxury Option: Hampton Inn Cave City, Kentucky, is our Luxury option
Elevate your Mammoth Cave experience with a stay at the Hampton Inn Cave City, where modern elegance meets exceptional comfort. Just a short 15-minute drive from the Mammoth Cave National Park Welcome Center, this luxury accommodation is perfect for those looking to indulge in a bit of opulence. Here’s what makes the Hampton Inn an ideal choice:
- Sophisticated Style: Relax in rooms designed with modern décor and plush comforts that cater to discerning tastes.
- Exclusive Amenities: Take a dip in our pristine pool, stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center, and start each day with a complimentary gourmet breakfast.
- Seamless Connectivity: Enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi throughout your stay, ensuring you’re always connected.
With rates ranging from $150 to $200 per night, the Hampton Inn offers a premium stay without the extravagance of ultra-high-end resorts. Perfect for those seeking a touch of luxury during their outdoor adventures!
Experience unmatched value at Hampton Inn Cave City, where luxury meets convenience just minutes from Mammoth Cave—perfect for the discerning traveler seeking an upscale retreat.
📍Premium Luxury Option: Grand Victorian Inn in Park City, Kentucky
Immerse yourself in the elegance of the past at the Grand Victorian Inn, Park City’s most exclusive bed and breakfast located just a stone’s throw from Mammoth Cave. With only 11 uniquely decorated rooms featuring period-appropriate furniture, the Grand Victorian offers a personalized and intimate experience that goes beyond the standard hotel stay. Here’s what makes the Grand Victorian Inn the ultimate choice for luxury:
- Exclusive Ambiance: Each room provides a unique glimpse into Victorian luxury, offering an escape from the typical hotel atmosphere.
- Tailored Services: Enjoy the charm of bespoke service in an intimate setting, perfect for those who value privacy and refined experiences.
- Complimentary Perks: Indulge in a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning and stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout your visit.
Room rates start at $159 and vary by season, room size, and occupancy, reflecting the bespoke nature of each stay. For a truly grand experience that captures the essence of Victorian opulence, choose the Grand Victorian Inn for your next visit to South Central Kentucky!
📍Glamping Luxury Option: Mammoth Cave Glamping in Horse Cave, Kentucky
Escape the ordinary and embrace the tranquility of nature at Mammoth Cave Glamping, just two miles from the heart of Mammoth Cave National Park. Our luxury glamping tent, designed for up to three guests, offers an exquisite blend of comfort and wilderness immersion. Here’s why you should book your stay:
- Secluded Luxury: Nestled in a private, serene location, our glamping site provides the perfect balance of rustic charm and upscale amenities.
- Off-the-Grid Experience: Unplug and reconnect with nature in our off-the-grid setting, ideal for those seeking a break from the digital world.
- Close to Adventure: With Mammoth Cave just a short drive away, endless outdoor activities await from hiking to cave tours.
Starting at $150 per night, Mammoth Cave Glamping offers a premium outdoor experience with the convenience of proximity to major attractions. Perfect for couples or small families looking to create memorable adventures!
Unlock Enhanced Security with Nord VPN: Your Must-Have Travel Companion
In today’s digital age, free Wi-Fi is a travel staple, but it’s not always secure. Don’t let cyber threats ruin your travel experience. Unlock enhanced security and enjoy peace of mind with Nord VPN, a trusted solution for safeguarding your online activities. Whether you’re browsing at a cafe or checking emails at a hotel, Nord VPN ensures your privacy and protects your data from prying eyes. We rely on Nord VPN both at home and while traveling to keep all our information secure—so you can surf with confidence, anywhere and anytime.
Stay safe on the go—secure your digital life with Nord VPN today!
FAQs
Visiting the National Parks involves so much planning that it’s easy to forget some of the questions you had during your trip planning. And it’s easy to get laser-focused only on the National Park. Our FAQ guide will help you see the big picture of your trip and answer all your last-minute questions about exploring Mammoth Cave National Park.
How many days do you need at Mammoth Cave?
At a minimum, plan for at least half a day at Mammoth Cave National Park. To really experience Mammoth Cave National Park we recommend at least two days. One day for a cave tour or cave tours and a second day for hiking on the miles of trails.
If you want to explore longer cave tours, overnight hike on the backcountry hiking trails, explore the Cave Capital of Kentucky, nearby Bowling Green, or take time to enjoy the trip we recommend taking at least 3 or 4 days to explore all the Mammoth Cave attractions.
How far is Mammoth Cave from the Ark Encounter?
Mammoth Cave is about 3 hours from the Ark Encounter, which is about 45 minutes north of Lexington, KY. Learn about what to expect from a day trip to the Ark Encounter. And if you are looking for the perfect campground near the Ark Encounter, don’t miss our comprehensive guide that ranks the top campgrounds near the Ark.
Where should I stay when visiting Mammoth Cave?
Visitors to Mammoth Cave are fortunate that this national park is so close to many towns and has numerous lodging accommodations at all levels. From budget hotels like OYO Hotel in Cave City (budget motel) to moderate hotels like to private homes for rent like this Rustic Bonneville Retreat (3 bedrooms and kitchen) to super premium hotels in nearby Louisville, KY like the Omni Louisville.
Can you go in Mammoth Cave for free?
Unfortunately, you cannot go in Mammoth Cave for free. All Mammoth Cave Tours, including the self-guided tour, require a ticket. Since numerous options are available for Mammoth Cave tours, the ticket prices vary based on your selected tour.
Mammoth Cave does not charge an admission to enter the National Park or to hike on the trails. And there is not a controlled entry into the park beyond ticketing for the various cave tours.
Are there any tips for visiting Mammoth Cave in Kentucky?
Our top Insider Tip is to not rush through this National Park. The ecosystem is very diverse, from the Green and Nolin Rivers and their habitat to the old-growth forest and sinkholes carving craters in the landscape to the world’s longest known cave system; Mammoth Cave delivers above expectations for this 52,000-acre park in South Central Kentucky.
Where is Mammoth Cave National Park?
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in South Central Kentucky, about 2 hours south of Louisville, KY and 45 minutes north of Bowling Green, KY.
The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center is located at Mammoth Cave Visitor Ctr, 1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259.
Has the entire Mammoth cave system in Kentucky been explored by humans?
No, while over 400 miles of this cave have been discovered, new sections are discovered frequently.
Wrap-Up: Uncover More Adventures Around Mammoth Cave
From the exhilarating ziplines through lush forests to serene kayak trips down the Green River, and even a step back in time at the National Corvette Museum, there’s something here for every adventurer. Mammoth Cave is the perfect base camp for exploring American history, sipping on fine Kentucky Bourbon, or enjoying family fun.
Remember, whether it’s diving into the subterranean wonders of Mammoth Cave or witnessing the majestic beauty of the Kentucky landscapes, each visit offers a new layer of discovery.
So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set out for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Kentucky. Book your tickets, reserve your stays, and prepare for an adventure that goes beyond the cave.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
About Us
We are Mike and Sara, and our kids and dog are exploring the US while camping in our fifth wheel! Since the late 90s we have been exploring the great outdoors one hiking trail at a time. We introduced our kids to hiking while they were young and they love exploring new places. We call Kentucky home and we find ourselves exploring the state parks, national parks, and other wildlands in our area as often as we can!
Our RV camping journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waking up close to the trails we love hiking was enough for us to get hooked on the camping lifestyle! Thanks for following our adventures!
