Welcome to the Mammoth Cave National Park Information Page
Here you will find all you need to know about the natural history of the park.
Learn about the geology, trees, mammals, birds, or other plants and wildlife of the area.
Mammoth Cave National Park is located central Kentucky, about 35 miles northeast of Bowling Green, KY and about 90 miles southwest of Louisville, KY and about 90 miles northeast on Nashville, TN.
How to get to Mammoth Cave National Park
The closest major airports to Mammoth Cave National Park are Louisville International Airport (SDF) and Nashville, TN and there is a smaller airport in Bowling Green, KY.
From the North
1. Take I-65 South to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
2. Take I-75 South to I-64 West to Highway 127 South to the Blue Grass Parkway West to I-65 South to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
From the East
1. Take I-64 West to Highway 60 West to the Blue Grass Parkway West to I-65 South to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
2. Take I-64 West to Highway 127 South to the Blue Grass Parkway West to I-65 South to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
From the South
1. Take I-65 North to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
From the West
1. Take I-70 East to I-64 East to I-65 South to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
2. Take I-40 East to I-65 North to Stateroad 70 West to the park.
Mammoth Cave is easily accessible by: Interstate I-65, Highway 31 West, and Highway 31 East from the north. From the east via Bluegrass Parkway, Cumberland Parkway and Highway 68. From the south, Interstate I-65, Highway 31 West and Highway 68. From the west via Highway 231, William H. Natcher Parkway and Western Kentucky Parkway. All connect with Kentucky Stateroad 70 and Kentucky Stateroad 255 to the park.
Transportation
Bus: Southeastern Greyhound Bus stops in Cave City.
Taxi service is available from the bus station to the park, approximately 11 miles.
Establishment the Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is located central Kentucky, about 35 miles northeast of Bowling Green, KY and about 90 miles southwest of Louisville, KY and about 90 miles northeast on Nashville, TN.
Mammoth Cave National Park was authorized as a national park in 1926 and was fully established 01 July 1941. It was established to preserve the cave system, the scenic river valleys of the Green and Nolin rivers, and a section of the hilly country of south central Kentucky. This is the longest recorded cave system in the world, with more than 348 miles explored and mapped. Mammoth Cave was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981, and as an International Biosphere Reserve in 1990.
Size and Visitation
Mammoth Cave National Park has 52,830 acres.
Mammoth Cave National Park is opened year round with the highest visitation in June, July, and August and the lowest in January. Mammoth Cave National Park is open every day except Christmas Day.
Geology of Mammoth Cave National Park
Beneath the surface of south central Kentucky lies a world that is virtually unparalleled. It is a labyrinth characterized by mile upon mile of dark, seemingly endless passageways. The geological process resulting in this world that we refer to as Mammoth Cave began hundreds of millions of years ago and continues today.
Mammoth Cave – The Longest Cave
A unique combination of circumstances has made Mammoth Cave the longest cave in the world, with more than three hundred and thirty five miles of mapped passages. First, the karst setting has a large area for potential cave formation. The upstream headwaters of Mammoth Cave are out under the sinkhole plain. Most of the passages large enough for people to enter are under the escarpment, the plateau, and the flat-topped ridges with their intervening valleys. Springs along the Green River are the downstream outlets of ground rivers such as Echo and Roaring Rivers.
Second, the Green River valley has deepened slowly due to many interruptions during the ice ages (Pleistocene). As a result, major passages were formed and Mammoth Cave contains multiple levels.
Third, the limestone is made up of many different layers with different characteristics; therefore as the underground water sought lower and lower levels, each layer provided a different path of flow. The result is numerous small to moderate-sized interconnecting passages and only a few large ones.
Biology
Mammoth Cave National Park’s 52,700 acres constitute one of the greatest protectors of biological diversity in Kentucky. The surface contains animals typical of an eastern hardwood forest. Larger animals include white-tailed deer, fox, raccoon, opossum, woodchuck, beaver, rabbit and squirrel. Smaller animals, such as bats, mice and chipmunks, also abound. Many reptiles and amphibians find protection in the park too. Birds such as mourning doves, whippoorwills, owls, hawks, woodpeckers, and warblers fly through Mammoth Caves forests. Wild turkeys reintroduced in 1983 are now regularly seen by visitors.
Visitors Guide
Basic Visit Recommendations
Mammoth Cave National Park was established to preserve the cave system, including Mammoth Cave, the scenic river valleys of the Green and Nolin rivers, and a section of south central Kentucky. This is the longest recorded cave system in the world with more than 336 miles explored and mapped.
Touring the cave, hiking the forest trails, canoeing, fishing, camping. Combining a cave tour with a surface hike is the best way to get the full picture of this resource.
Biking
Bicycles are allowed in the park on the park roads. No bicycles, roller-blades or roller skates are permitted on the trails in the park, except for the designated bicycle trail. The bike trail is a mile long gravel trail that connects Loop B of Headquarters Campground with the Carmichael and Violet City Entrance Road.
Boating
Canoes are available through liveries outside the park. Inquire at the Visitor Center. Boats may be taken in and out of the water at Green River Ferry and Houchins Ferry. Canoes may be taken in and out at Green River, Houchins and Dennison Ferries.
Camping
There are four campgrounds in Mammoth Cave National Park. They are: Dennison Ferry, Headquarters Campground, Houchins Ferry camping area, and Maple Springs Campground.
Fees
Park entry is free. Cave tours have varying fees. For rates at the Mammoth Cave Hotel in the park, call: 502-758-2225
Fishing
Over 30 miles of the Green and Nolin Rivers trace through the park and offer a wealth of recreational opportunities. Angle for muskellunge, bluegill, catfish, bass, perch, crappie, and other game fish.
Food and Supplies
The park concessioner operates food service and a camp store.
Hiking
There are 70+ miles of trail on the North Side. Hike here and you may not see another living soul. Seek solitude in the rugged hills and deep valleys, camp by river, lake or waterfall, explore bluffs and ridgetops.
Horseback Riding
Sixty miles of trails north of the Green River (all except Ganter Cave Trail) are open for horseback riding.
Pet Information
Pets must be on a leash and under physical restraint at all times. Do not leave pets unattended at your campsite. There is also kennels at the Mammoth Cave Hotel.
Mammoth Cave National Park Weather Information
The temperature in the cave is approximately 54° Fahrenheit. A light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended. Below ground temperatures stays more or less 54° F. The cave temperatures can fluctuate as much as 6° either way in the passageways close to the surface. Entrances may be very cold. The lower passageways are more constant.
- Summer: Summers are hot and sultry with highs in the 80s to 90s.
- Winter: Winters are mild with highs in the 30s to 40s, although temperatures can drop well below zero.
40 FAQs About Mammoth Cave National Park
General Information
1. Where is Mammoth Cave National Park located?
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in central Kentucky, about 90 miles south of Louisville and 30 miles north of Bowling Green.
2. Why is it called “Mammoth” Cave?
It’s called “Mammoth” because of its enormous size, not because of prehistoric animals. The cave system is the largest known in the world.
3. How big is Mammoth Cave?
Over 426 miles of explored passages have been mapped — and new sections are still being discovered every year.
4. When was Mammoth Cave National Park established?
It became a national park in 1941 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
5. How did Mammoth Cave form?
It formed over millions of years as rainwater dissolved limestone, carving massive underground passages and chambers.
6. Who discovered Mammoth Cave?
Indigenous peoples explored the cave thousands of years ago. Modern discovery and mapping began in the late 1700s by European settlers.
7. Is Mammoth Cave a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, it was designated in 1981 for its natural and geological significance.
8. How many people visit Mammoth Cave each year?
The park attracts around 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited cave systems in the world.
🕳️ Cave Tours & Exploration
9. How many tours does Mammoth Cave offer?
There are typically 10–12 guided tours, ranging from easy walks to intense crawling adventures.
10. Which cave tour is best for first-timers?
The Historic Tour and Frozen Niagara Tour are perfect for beginners or families.
11. What’s the most adventurous cave tour?
The Wild Cave Tour is a physically demanding, six-hour spelunking adventure through tight tunnels and rugged terrain.
12. Do I need a reservation for a cave tour?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially in summer and holidays, via the National Park Service website.
13. Can I explore the cave on my own?
No. All underground areas are accessible only through guided tours for safety and conservation.
14. How cold is Mammoth Cave inside?
The cave maintains a steady temperature of around 54°F (12°C) year-round.
15. How long do cave tours last?
Tours range from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the route and difficulty.
16. What should I wear on a cave tour?
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction and a light jacket or sweater.
17. Can you take pictures inside the cave?
Yes, photography is allowed on most tours, but tripods and flash may be restricted.
18. Is Mammoth Cave dark inside?
Yes — it’s naturally dark! Guided tours provide lighting, and some areas are illuminated for safety.
🌲 Above-Ground Activities
19. What are the best hiking trails in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Popular trails include:
- Green River Bluffs Trail
- Cedar Sink Trail
- Big Hollow Trail
- Echo River Springs Trail
20. Can I go kayaking or canoeing in Mammoth Cave?
Yes! The Green River and Nolin River offer scenic, calm waters ideal for paddling. Canoe rentals are available nearby.
21. Are there biking trails in the park?
Yes, mountain biking is allowed on select trails like Big Hollow and Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike & Hike Trail.
22. Is horseback riding available?
Yes, the park has designated horseback riding trails near Maple Springs and the backcountry.
23. Can you fish in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Yes, fishing is allowed in the Green and Nolin Rivers without a state license (federal park rules apply).
24. Are there ranger-led programs?
Yes, rangers offer guided hikes, campfire talks, and stargazing events throughout the year.
🌌 Camping, Lodging & Facilities
25. Can I camp in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Yes, the park has several campgrounds, including Mammoth Cave Campground, Maple Springs, and Houchin Ferry.
26. Can you backcountry camp in Mammoth Cave?
Yes, there are 13 backcountry sites accessible by hiking or paddling for a more secluded experience.
27. Does the park have a lodge or hotel?
Yes, The Lodge at Mammoth Cave offers hotel rooms, cabins, and dining near the Visitor Center.
28. Are campfires allowed?
Yes, campfires are permitted in designated fire rings unless a fire restriction is in effect.
29. Can I bring my RV or camper?
Yes, several campgrounds accommodate RVs and trailers, some with electric hookups.
30. Can I stargaze in Mammoth Cave?
Absolutely! The park is an International Dark Sky Park, offering incredible night sky views.
🐿️ Wildlife & Nature
31. What animals live in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Common wildlife includes deer, raccoons, foxes, bats, owls, turtles, and river otters.
32. Are there bats in Mammoth Cave?
Yes, several bat species live here, including the endangered Indiana bat and gray bat.
33. Is it safe to encounter wildlife?
Yes, as long as you observe from a distance and never feed animals.
34. What kind of plants grow in the park?
The park features hardwood forests, wildflowers, and rare cave-adapted plants near sinkholes and springs.
🚗 Accessibility & Travel Tips
35. Is Mammoth Cave open year-round?
Yes, though some tours and campgrounds have seasonal schedules. The cave is open even in winter.
36. Is Mammoth Cave wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Frozen Niagara Tour, Visitor Center, and Heritage Trail are ADA accessible.
37. Are pets allowed in Mammoth Cave National Park?
Pets are allowed above ground on trails and in campgrounds but not inside the cave. A kennel service is available at the Visitor Center.
38. How much does it cost to visit Mammoth Cave?
Entrance to the park is free, but guided cave tours have individual ticket fees ranging from $10–$60 per person.
39. What should I bring for a day trip?
Essentials include:
- Comfortable shoes
- Water and snacks
- A jacket for the cave
- Camera
- Bug spray for outdoor trails
40. What attractions are near Mammoth Cave National Park?
Nearby sites include:
- Dinosaur World (Cave City)
- Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
- Nolin Lake State Park
- National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green
✅ Pro Tip: The best time to visit Mammoth Cave National Park is spring through fall (April–October) when the weather is mild, and most tours are open.