1. Introduction
The idea of another world existing beneath our feet is both thrilling and terrifying — and it’s the reality at Mammoth Cave National Park, which has the longest known cave system in the world. The park’s namesake cave runs more than 400 miles under the earth’s surface — and that’s just the part that has been explored and mapped. Inside the aptly named Mammoth Cave, you’ll find tube-like passageways, great rooms with sparkling walls, slot canyons, huge domes, and even a dripstone that resembles a frozen waterfall.
It’s no wonder Mammoth Cave has long drawn visitors to south-central Kentucky. Moreover, while it’s easily the park’s biggest draw, it isn’t its only attraction. Mammoth Cave National Park is home to thousands of years of human history and stretches nearly 53,000 acres above the earth’s surface. The landscape — rolling hills, thick forests, and lush river valleys — lends itself to hiking and biking, and the park is also traversed by the Green and Nolin rivers, which offer plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing.
If you’re interested in visiting this lesser-known park with lots to offer — it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve — let us guide you through the wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park, including what to do, where to stay, and when to go.
2. Best Things to Do at Mammoth Cave National Park
The park’s main attraction is Mammoth Cave, providing more than 400 miles of underground adventure. Accessing the cave typically requires a ticket; however, we recommend joining one of the many guided tours. These tours take visitors to significant locations such as Gothic Avenue, noted for its Gothic-style rock formations, and the Snowball Room, which is accessible through tube-shaped passages adorned with sparkling gypsum-covered walls.
For those who prefer to explore the park above ground, visit the Green and Nolin rivers, which form part of a National Water Trail, offering an excellent setting for kayaking and canoeing (including paddle-in camp spots). Anglers can enjoy fishing for bluegill, catfish, bass, and perch, among others.
Additionally, numerous hiking and biking trails await, including the impressive Big Hollow Trail and the Connector Trail, providing bikers with over 10 miles of single track. Hikers can explore more developed trails located near the visitor center on the park’s south side, or venture out to the backcountry trails on the north side.
3. Best Places to Stay Near Mammoth Cave National Park
Right adjacent to the park’s visitor center is The Lodge at Mammoth Cave, featuring standard rooms and a variety of picturesque cottages. We suggest spending the night in the white historic cottages, nestled under the trees and offering simple yet comfortable decor.
The nearby Mammoth Cave Hotel, operational since 1965, is undergoing renovations for a late summer 2023 reopening.
For camping enthusiasts, the park offers three developed campgrounds: Mammoth Cave, Maple Springs, and Houchin Ferry. Mammoth Cave Campground is closest to the visitor center with both RV and tent sites, while Maple Springs Campground features group and RV sites and is a short 10-minute drive to the visitor center. The Houchin Ferry Campground is a tent-only, more remote site located about 20 minutes from the visitor center.
The park also boasts 13 designated backcountry campsites, which necessitate a hike, horseback ride, or paddle to access.
4. How to Get to Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is divided by the Green River, which flows from east to west. Most activities occur on the south side, where you’ll find the cave tours and Mammoth Cave Visitor Center. The north side of the river is quieter and more remote, offering ample space for backcountry camping, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Additionally, the visitor center is roughly 1.5 hours south of Louisville, Kentucky, slightly over two hours from Lexington, and less than 15 minutes from Park City, which historically served as the entrance to the national park.
5. Best Time to Visit Mammoth Cave National Park
The park welcomes visitors year-round; however, it noticeably experiences higher foot traffic during the summer months. Conversely, the spring and fall seasons tend to be significantly quieter, while winter marks the park’s low season. The good news is that regardless of your visit time, the cave remains a consistent 54 degrees Fahrenheit, offering a cool respite from the summer heat and protection from the winter’s cold and wind.
