Mammoth Cave National Park

CONTENTS

Mammoth Cave National Park

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 360 miles explored and mapped.

IN DEPTH

Geology 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...read more

History of Mammoth Cave Indigenous peoples lived and hunted in Kentucky between 2,000 and 4,000 years ago in the Late Archaic Period (3000 — 1000 B.C.). These early explorers traveled miles within Mammoth...read more

Just For Kids Are you between 6 and 13? If so, do you want to learn all you can about Mammoth Cave National Park? Take the Trog Tour: A fun trip for kids between...read more

Kentucky Cave Shrimp The entire known population of the Kentucky cave shrimp lives in or near Mammoth Cave National Park. Blind and semitransparent, these tiny crustaceans feed on bacteria, protozoa and other...read more

Lodging & Dining Although there are a variety of lodging options in nearby towns, there is only one place to stay within park boundaries: Mammoth Cave Hotel. At Mammoth Cave Hotel, guests...read more

Mummy in the Cave Two guides discovered the desiccated body of an American Indian pinned beneath a limestone slab in 1935, two miles from the entrance of Mammoth Cave. The American Indian was...read more

In A Nutshell PLANNING YOUR VISIT Entrance Fees Entrance to Mammoth Cave National Park is free, although there is a fee for cave tours. The park is open year-round, except for December 25. Activities...read more

Oh, Ranger! My love and interest in America's National Parks was kindled in my youth, when my parents began taking me to visit many of our national treasures. I have visited...read more

Only A Day The compact nature of Mammoth Cave National Park means you can pack a lot into just one day. Start the day with a guided tour of the world's longest...read more

Mammoth Cave Park Regulations You can make the most of your visit to Mammoth Cave National Park by planning ahead, and becoming acquainted with some simple precautions, all designed to enhance your safety...read more