Camping at Mammoth Cave National Park

General Information

Mammoth Cave National Park is located in central Kentucky and is most famous for its extensive cave system, which is the world's longest. The park covers around 52,830 acres, and the cave system is over 400 miles long. Visitors can explore the beauty of the underground cave network and also enjoy the rich surface landscape through various activities.

Camping Options

Mammoth Cave National Park offers different types of camping experiences to accommodate a variety of preferences.

• Campgrounds:

  • Mammoth Cave Campground: Located near the visitor center, this site offers 111 campsites, including tent and RV spots with no hookups.
  • Houchin Ferry Campground: A smaller, more primitive campground with 12 sites, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Maple Springs Group Campground: Designed for larger groups with horses or for people interested in backcountry camping.

• Backcountry Camping: For those who prefer a more remote and rugged experience, backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas with a free permit that can be obtained at the visitor center.

• Frontcountry Camping: Aside from the established campgrounds, there are also a number of picnic areas and other day-use facilities.

Reservations and Permits

It's important to secure your camping spot before arriving, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Reservations for the Mammoth Cave Campground and Maple Springs Group Campground can be made via the Recreation.gov website or by phone.
• Permits are required for backcountry camping, and they are available free of charge at the visitor center.

Cave Tours

The park offers a variety of cave tours ranging from easy, scenic walks to strenuous and adventurous crawls through undeveloped parts of the cave.

• Reservation: It's highly recommended to book your cave tour in advance as they often sell out, especially in peak season.
• Accessibility: Please check the tour descriptions carefully as some tours are not suitable for visitors with claustrophobia, limited mobility, or certain health conditions.

Surface Activities

Aside from the caves, visitors can enjoy many above-ground activities such as:

• Hiking: Over 70 miles of trails are available for hiking.
• Biking: There are bike-friendly roads and some off-road cycling trails.
• Fishing: Fishing is permitted in the park's rivers and streams.
• Horseback Riding: You can bring your own horse or rent one from a local outfitter.

Visitor Center

The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center is the primary hub for orientation, tickets, tours, and exhibits. It's also the starting point for most of the cave tours.

Wildlife

The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, bats, birds, and more. It's important to respect wildlife by not feeding them and keeping a safe distance.

Rules and Regulations

To ensure protection of the park and safety for all visitors, there are several rules and regulations in place:

• Leave No Trace: This is a common policy in many national parks aimed at preserving the natural environment.
• Fire: Campfires are allowed only in designated fire grates.
• Pets: They are allowed in the park but must be on a leash; however, pets are not permitted in the cave or in the lodge.
• Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all public areas of the park.

Weather Conditions

The weather at Mammoth Cave National Park can vary widely. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional freezing temperatures. Always check the current weather conditions before your trip and come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

Safety Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially during hot summer months.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Sturdy shoes are recommended for cave tours.
• Listen to Rangers: Heed the advice and instructions of park rangers during tours and activities.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Mammoth Cave National Park.