The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM from September to May and from 8 AM to 7 PM during summer months. It is closed on Christmas Day.
There is no entrance fee to enter Mammoth Cave National Park. You can access the park’s surface features for free. however, there are fees for cave tours, camping, and shelter rentals.
From Louisville, take I-65 south to Exit 48, turn left onto KY-255, and follow the scenic route into a world of ancient caves and pristine landscapes.
Parking is available at the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center and various overlooks on the parkways. Cars, RVs, and motorcycles can park here. RV parking is available, but no overnight parking is permitted. There are no parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Mammoth Cave National Park, tucked away in the rolling hills and deep river valleys of Kentucky, is a realm of ancient allure and natural splendor. Here, the world’s longest known cave system stretches over 400 miles, a subterranean labyrinth of towering rock formations and echoing chambers that have captivated humans for more than 4,000 years.
Above ground, the park unfolds as a tapestry of diverse landscapes: dense forests, sparkling streams, and the serene Green River, which beckons kayakers and fishermen alike. The river is home to a variety of fish, including bass and catfish, while the surrounding woods are a haven for deer, turkey, and an array of birdlife.
Hikers can explore the park’s extensive trail network, including the Sand Cave Trail and the challenging Collie Ridge backpacking route. For those seeking a leisurely stroll, the Historic Violet City Tour offers a glimpse into the park’s rich history. In the evening, the skies transform into a celestial canvas perfect for stargazing.
Seasonal visits offer unique experiences: spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer is marked by ranger-led cave tours and the occasional summer concert, while autumn paints the landscape in vibrant hues. The park’s visitor center and museum provide a comprehensive look at its geological and historical significance.
Nearby, the charming town of Cave City offers artisan shops and local eateries, while the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike & Hike Trail invites cyclists to explore the park’s scenic backcountry. For a more exotic adventure, the Great Onyx Cave, with its sparkling rocks and Helictite Hall, is a must-visit, especially on a guided lantern tour.
- Area (mi²)
- 83
- Annual visitors
- 663 000
- Established year
- 1941
Top 3 Facts about Mammoth Cave National Park
The cave system, formed over millions of years, includes more than 686 kilometers of passageway, with new discoveries adding several kilometers each year. It developed in thick Mississippian-aged limestone strata capped by a layer of sandstone, ensuring remarkable stability.
In this verdant oasis, over 1,300 plant species thrive, including 25 endangered or threatened varieties. The lush forests and unique microclimates support a diverse array of wildlife: eyeless fish and crayfish, Kentucky cave shrimp, Indiana and Gray bats, and more than 80 fish species in the Green River. Here, deer, raccoons, and wild turkeys roam, while over 70 species of freshwater mussels inhabit the riverbeds. This biological tapestry is a testament to the park’s extraordinary ecological richness.
In the heart of central Kentucky, a vast network of underground passageways stretches over 426 miles, carved through Mississippian-aged limestone strata. Above, rolling hills and deep river valleys support over 1,300 flowering plant species and a diverse array of wildlife, including bald eagles and wood warblers. The surrounding forest is a tapestry of vibrant colors, with the Green River flowing gently through the landscape, its waters reflecting the hues of the sky. This unique geological and biological tapestry is a testament to millions of years of natural formation.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead for a few days to explore extensive trails and cave tours. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season or events like the Summer Solstice Ranger Program. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and pack meals as options are limited. Anticipate cooler cave temperatures year-round.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for cool cave temperatures, sturdy footwear, headlamps, and a first aid kit. Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for surface activities. For longer stays, include camping gear, extra blankets, and a cooler.
Respect Wildlife
Respect troglobites and endangered species by staying on designated paths, avoiding touch or disturbance, and keeping tours quiet to preserve their unique habitats. Wear appropriate gear for season and weather to minimize impact. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Check weather forecasts, avoid ledges and water, and stay informed about fire restrictions. Carry a first-aid kit and know emergency contact numbers: 911 or park ranger hotline. Proceed cautiously and stay within your group.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and vibrant wildflowers. Join the Wildflower Day celebration in April, with guided hikes and children’s activities. Clear skies make it ideal for the Star Party, highlighting the park’s dark sky status. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the depths in summer’s warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid weather. Join Wildflower Day in May for guided hikes and children’s crafts, or celebrate International Dark Sky Week in April under star-studded skies. Ideal for adventure seekers, but beware of heavy school groups in spring.
Experience autumn’s mild coolness, with temperatures ranging from 49°F to 71°F, and enjoy the Cave Sing in November, a historic holiday tradition. Breezy days and vibrant wildflowers make fall an ideal time to visit.
Winter, from December to February, brings solitude and magic with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 50°F. Snow and ice transform the landscape, while constant 54°F cave temperatures offer a cozy escape. Fewer crowds and unique tours make it an ideal time for an exclusive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Mammoth Cave National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To be close to the park, you should stay in Cave City, Kentucky, which is just a few miles from the park’s entrance. Alternatively, you can also consider staying in Bowling Green, Kentucky, though it is about 22 miles away. The Lodge at Mammoth Cave, located next to the visitor center, is another option within the park itself.
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The Heritage Trail is the most family-friendly hike, as it is a short, 0.5-mile paved loop starting at the Visitor Center, making it easy for toddlers and young children to navigate.
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Pets are allowed on the hiking trails as long as they are leashed. This includes trails such as the Sinhole trail. However, pets are not allowed in the caves themselves, except for service animals.
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Parking is free at the park, including for campers, motorhomes, and trailers. However, there are fees for cave tours, camping, and shelter rentals.
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The top attraction is the vast cave system, discovered in 1797 by a hunter chasing a bear, which began offering guided tours in 1816. These tours, initially led by enslaved guides like Stephen Bishop, showcase the cave’s extensive passages and notable features such as the Bottomless Pit and Mammoth Dome.