Today we will talk about Mammoth Caves National Park in Kentucky. This was the first national park we ever visited in our trailer. We were actually on our way back to Dallas after picking it up from the factory in Ohio. It was a last minute stop and happened to be during peak season, which meant we were not able to take any special tours because they were all sold out. We could, however, do the self-guided tour which brought us into the large mouth of the cavern. We were in awe of its massive size and learned a ton from the rangers that were stationed throughout. Needless to say, our appetites were wet and we set our minds on returning to this park to do some more exploring!
In January of this year, we were able to do just that! We returned to Mammoth Cave National Park and this time we were equipped with tickets to tour deep down under! Our family hopped on the bus in the picture above and the rangers drove us to a smaller cave entrance on the other side of the park. It was pouring rain outside, but the cave was nice and dry. We were on the 2 hour Domes and Dripstones Tour.
“This classic tour visits areas of Mammoth Cave that have been used for nearly 100 years. This tour begins in a sinkhole, passes through huge domes, amazing breakdown, and ends in the dripstone section known as Frozen Niagara. . . . Focusing on the natural formation of the cave, this tour is ideal for people interested in science and wanting to see stalactites and stalagmites.” (nps.gov)
Highlights of the tour included seeing original ladders and tools used to explore the caves when it was first discovered, seeing Frozen Niagra, and the different types of cave formations. Mom’s favorite were the Drapery formations. And Sam loved the bus ride! The rangers that lead our tour patiently answered our questions and shared personal stories of their time exploring in the caves. We were really grateful to have the opportunity to return to Mammoth Cave National Park!
Mammoth Cave N.P.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm Location: Cave City, Kentucky
Fun historical Fact: “Mammoth Cave National Park preserves not only the longest known cave system on earth (400+ miles), but also 53,000 acres of beautiful forest. With nearly a dozen miles of cave trail below ground, and a surface boasting nearly 70 miles of nature trail, 13 backcountry campsites, three campgrounds, and over 20 miles of navigable river to explore and enjoy, it really is two worlds in one” (source)
Junior Ranger Program: Yes! And there is a bonus program that can be downloaded from home where you can earn your Cave Scientist Badge! Check it our here!
Interested in visiting yourself? Plan Ahead!
Here is the link to Cave tours that are offered so you can get your tickets ahead of time and not find yourself stuck like we were the first time we visited.
Once the Corona quarantine is lifted, this place is guaranteed to be hopping.
Exploring the cave is not the only activity available at this park. There is camping, hiking, biking and horseback riding available. We camped on the premises the first visit and enjoyed the little camp store and on-site playground. The Visitor center was about a 10 minute walk from the campground.
Speaking of the visitor center! There is a mini museum inside, as well as the usually National Park Store. So be sure to bring your National Park Passport to get your stamp! Behind the visitor center is a lodge with hotel style rooms, a restaurant, ice-cream shop and more souvenir stores with some locally made items.
During our second visit to the cave we stayed at Diamond Caverns RV Resort and Golf (If you have a Thousand Trails membership, this location is included for free!). Diamond Caverns is a privately owned portion of the Mammoth Cave system. The RV Resort actually had its own entrance and provided tours. Check out cavecity.com for lots of great activities and tourist attractions in the area.
Looking for some other great trip locations? Check these out! Even if you aren’t able to travel right now, each post links to some great resources and activities.
Skelly Hodgepodge: The Roadschooling Squirrel does Fun Fact Fridays.
This one makes a great Roadschooling supplement for your trip to Mammoth Caves.
Learn all about different types of caves and cave formations. Check it out now!
Did you know that Prodigal Overland is doing a yearlong fundraising campaign for non-profits? In celebration of Lauren’s 40th year we are donating $40 to 40 non-profits, highlighting the people and the organizations that INSPIRE-ACT-ENCOURAGE-GIVE and challenging 40 people to make matching donations to each. Below are some of the highlighted organizations and people.
