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National Park · Southeast · KY

Mammoth Cave National Park

Rolling hills, deep river valleys, and the world's longest known cave system. Mammoth Cave National Park is home to thousands of years of human history and a rich diversity of plant and animal life, earning it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Region.

Official NPS page · Directions

Current alerts

  • Park ClosureGreen River Ferry Temporarily Out of Service

    The Green River Ferry has temporarily suspended operation due to low water levels. Ferry service will resume once water levels rise and conditions are safe. A river forecast is available at: water.noaa.gov/gauges/03309000

  • Park ClosureElevator for Accessible Tour Out of Service

    Due to mechanical issues with the cave elevator, the Accessible Tour is currently unavailable. Please check back for updates or call the visitor center at (270) 758-2180.

  • InformationTemporary Closure of Select Trails for Rehabilitation Project

    The Old Guides Trail, Heritage Trail, Sunset Point Trail and areas of the Sinkhole Trail are currently closed due to a trail rehabilitation project.

  • InformationTickets are required to enter Mammoth Cave

    Reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations are the only way to ensure a spot is available for your party. Please plan accordingly by visiting Recreation.gov to secure your tickets in advance. Availability of walk-up tickets is not guaranteed.

    More information

Location

37.1976, -86.1309

Hours & fees

Park Hours

Mammoth Cave National Park is open 24-hours a day, although services such as cave tours and the visitor center are limited after-hours. There is no gate at the park entrance. Please note that camping is only possible either in designated campgrounds or backcountry campsites with a valid reservation or permit.

MondayAll Day
TuesdayAll Day
WednesdayAll Day
ThursdayAll Day
FridayAll Day
SaturdayAll Day
SundayAll Day

No entrance fee is charged at this park.

Activities

  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Backcountry Camping
  • Canoe or Kayak Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
  • Group Camping
  • RV Camping
  • Caving
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Food
  • Dining
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Hands-On
  • Hiking
  • Backcountry Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horse Camping (see also camping)
  • Horseback Riding
  • Paddling
  • Canoeing
  • Canoe or Kayak Camping
  • Kayaking
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Park Film
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store