Visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with Kids

Mammoth Cave National Park, located in Kentucky, is full of underground wonders and natural beauty. This expansive cave system offers an exciting and educational experience for all types of visitors – including families with kids. We only had one day as part of a fall break trip that included a stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a mini road trip between Tennessee and Kentucky. Despite only having one day at the park, we made the most of it and loved our tour and time there.

While the highlight for any visitor is experiencing one of the exciting cave tours, there is more to explore above ground too. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials for a memorable visit to Mammoth Cave National Park with kids.

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Basics Information about Mammoth Cave

Where is Mammoth Cave Located?

Mammoth Cave National Park is conveniently located near several larger cities. The closest major cities are Nashville, Tennessee (about 90 miles to the south), and Louisville, Kentucky (about 80 miles to the north). If you’re flying in, the nearest airports are Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). The college town of Bowling Green is only about 45 minutes away and a great option if you want to stay a little closer to the park than Nashville or Louisville. Even closer is Cave City, but there are fewer amenities.

How much does it cost to visit Mammoth Cave?

To explore Mammoth Cave, you’ll need to purchase admission to a cave tour. You can purchase tour tickets at the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center or online in advance. It is highly recommended that you purchase your tour tickets in advance, or you may find yourself waiting around for a late tour or missing out completely. Tickets can be reserved sometimes up to 6 months ahead of time, but often tour schedules aren’t updated until 1 to 3 months before the tour. You can reserve tickets at www.recreation.gov.  Prices range from $8 to $66 for adult tickets, with many tours in the $20-$25 range. Children 5 and under are free and do not need a ticket.

Is there a Visitors Center at Mammoth Cave?

The Mammoth Cave Visitors Center is your gateway to the park. Here, you’ll find a wealth of information, including park maps, exhibits, and knowledgeable park rangers to answer your questions. It’s a great place to start your adventure, as it provides an excellent overview of what Mammoth Cave has to offer. The center also has a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs and snacks for your journey. Don’t forget to use the restroom facilities at the Visitor Center before leaving on your tour. When visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with kids, consider purchasing a Junior Ranger Booklet ($2.50) and have them work on the activities while you wait for your tour to begin.

Where to stay when visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with Kids

When searching for accommodations anywhere, it’s important to pay attention to not just the price but the location, ratings, and reviews. Read my post on finding the best place to stay for any vacation before booking anywhere. Below are several suggestions that are reasonably priced and close enough for a day trip to the park.

Lodging and Camping in Mammoth Cave National Park

Within walking distance to the Visitors Center, stands Mammoth Lodge as well as several cabin-like cottages for families of all sizes. Reservations can be made here.

There are three official campgrounds within Mammoth Cave National Park: Mammoth Cave Campground, Maple Springs, and Houchin Ferry. If you are looking for convenience, Mammoth Cave Campground will be your best bet. It is within walking distance of the Visitor Center, has flush toilets and showers (seasonally), and ADA-accessible sites. Reservations can be made at recreation.gov. If you choose to camp, check out my post on the easiest camping meals for less stress.

Lodging in Nearby Cities

Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a popular choice for visitors, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and activities to enjoy, although it is about 45 minutes from the park. Cave City, just outside the park’s entrance, also offers various lodging choices, but may not offer as much as Bowling Green.

Consider the following family-friendly lodging options near Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bowling Green Lodging Recommendations

Embassy Suites by Hilton Bowling Green: Sleeps up to 6
Amenities:
Breakfast included
Indoor swimming pool
Separate sleeping area with door
Microwave & refrigerator

Comfort Suites: Sleeps up to 6
Amenities:
Breakfast included
Indoor swimming pool
BBQ grill
Microwave & refrigerator

Staybridge Suites Bowling Green: Sleeps up to 8
Amenities:
Breakfast included
Seasonal swimming pool
BBQ Grill
Free laundry facilities
Fitness room
Microwave & refrigerator

Note:
This is where we stayed for two nights when we visited Mammoth Cave. The service was fantastic. However, our room and some of the washing machines were not very clean. The beds were very clean and comfortable – which was the most important thing to me. The location was very close to restaurants and grocery options. I would consider staying here again, but would also look at other options before booking (or at least be willing to politely request a cleaner room – I’m afraid of confrontation).

Cave City Lodging Recommendations

Sleep Inn & Suites Cave City: Sleeps up to 6
Amenities:
Breakfast included
Indoor pool
Fitness room
Microwave

Comfort Inn & Suites Cave City: Sleeps up to 6
Amenities:
Breakfast included
Indoor swimming pool
Fitness Room
Microwave & Fridge

Historic Wigwam Village No. 2: Sleeps up to 4
Amenities:
BBQ grill
Outdoor play equipment

Note:
This location is on the National Register of Historic Places. I do not know how this lodging is viewed by members of the native tribes in the US, and I don’t support the commercialization and Americanization of traditional native housing for profit by non-tribe members.  However, based on my research the current owners are focused on celebrating its place in the early history of motor hotels and the like. They recognize the insensitivity of its original design and are attempting to educate visitors about the history of the location. That being said, you do you and decide if it’s worth a stop!

Cave Tours at Mammoth Cave National Park

We’ve explored both Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota and Lehman Cave at Great Basin with our kids, and I love how each system has its own unique features and each is worth a visit. However, Mammoth Cave is probably my favorite of the three because of all the tour options and unique ecosystem.

Mammoth Cave offers a wide selection of tours for explorers of all abilities and ages. For a full list of options of current offerings, visit Mammoth Cave’s website here.

Most Popular Tours

Mammoth Cave offers a variety of tours, but some of the most popular ones include the Frozen Niagara Tour (detailed later), Domes and Dripstones Tour, and the Historic Tour. Each tour has its unique elements, so be sure to research and choose the one that best suits your family’s interests and abilities.

Domes and Dripstones Tour

The Domes and Dripstones Tour at Mammoth Cave National Park offers visitors a two-hour exploration of impressive underground formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. This educational journey delves into the geological wonders of the cave such as stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its historical significance in early cave exploration.

Length: 2 hours, 0.75 miles, 640 stairs

Cost:
$25 ages 6-12
$30 ages 13+

Historic Tour

The Historic Tour at Mammoth Cave National Park is a two-hour exploration of the cave’s rich history and intriguing past. Visitors embark on a journey through the passages and chambers where early cave explorers, dating back to the 19th century, ventured with torches in hand. This tour provides an engaging glimpse into the historical significance of Mammoth Cave, along with the tales of those who first delved into its depths.

Length: 2 hours, 2 miles, 540 stairs

Cost:
$18 ages 6-12
$24 ages 13+

Best Mammoth Cave Tours for Kids

The Frozen Niagara Tour is a great choice for families with young children. It’s a shorter tour that’s less physically demanding, making it suitable for kids. The Discovery Tour is another family-friendly option, specifically designed for young explorers.

Frozen Niagara Tour

The Frozen Niagara Tour at Mammoth Cave National Park is a fascinating exploration that offers visitors a glimpse of unique geological formations. In this approximately 1.25-hour tour, you’ll witness the beauty of the “Frozen Niagara,” a striking cascade of flowstone, along with other stunning features like stalactites and stalagmites. This tour highlights the park’s geological wonders while being accessible to a wide range of visitors. The Frozen Niagara Tour is favored for its shorter duration and the opportunity to witness some of Mammoth Cave’s most iconic formations. It’s a great tour when visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with kids.

Length: 1.25 hours, 0.25 miles, 64 stairs (with 95 optional stairs)

Cost:
$22 ages 6-12
$26 ages 13+

Note:
This is the tour we chose to take with our kids ages 9, 7, and 4. It was fabulous and the perfect length for our young kids. My oldest would probably have been fine doing a longer tour, but we weren’t sure what to expect with our younger ones. If you have the physical ability, take the time and effort to go down the additional optional stairs for some truly remarkable cave formations.

Also, there are cave crickets that you can see in the cave. They were so fascinating (and a little creepy) to see. Keep your eyes peeled!

Discovery Tour

This is a self-guided tour which can be very good for families that need the flexibility of time. However, this tour is usually only open during the summer months and tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of your tour.

Length: Self-paced, 0.5 miles, 135 stairs

Cost:
$9 ages 6-12
$12 ages 13+

Unique Tour Experiences

Mammoth Cave offers tours that allow a more unique experience than the typical walk-through. Consider one of the following tours if you want to go beyond the basics, or check out the comprehensive list on the park’s website. Please note that these are not always offered, so check ahead before making plans.

Violet City Lantern Tour

Lasting approximately two hours, this tour is led by lantern light, evoking a sense of wonder and adventure. Visitors explore the hidden passages and grand chambers of Mammoth Cave, immersing themselves in the captivating history of early cave explorers.

Length: 3 hours, 3 miles, 160 stairs

Cost:
$27 ages 6-12
$32 ages 13+

Wild Cave Tour

For the ultimate adventure seekers, the Wild Cave Tour at Mammoth Cave National Park is a challenging and thrilling journey into the cave’s untouched, wild passages. With a duration of approximately six hours, this tour is physically demanding and requires participants to crawl, hike, and climb through narrow and rugged cave environments. It’s a hands-on exploration led by experienced guides, providing an authentic caving experience. Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared for a true underground adventure, making the Wild Cave Tour an unforgettable and adrenaline-pumping exploration of Mammoth Cave.

Length: 6 hours, 6 miles, 500 stairs

Cost: $79, ages 16+ only

What to Expect on a Mammoth Cave Tour

Mammoth Cave tours are led by experienced guides who provide insight into the cave’s geology, history, and the fascinating world beneath the surface. Expect cool, damp conditions in the cave, so dress appropriately with comfortable, non-slip shoes and layered clothing, and don’t forget to bring water on longer tours. Some tours may have age or physical restrictions, so be sure to check in advance. Use the restrooms beforehand as there are none available during most tours. Some tours require transportation by bus, and you will be notified where to meet your tour group before departure.

Other Activities at Mammoth National Park with Kids

Hiking at Mammoth Cave National Park

If your family enjoys hiking, explore the park’s surface with some short hikes. The Cedar Sink Trail and Heritage Trail are great options for scenic walks that are suitable for kids.

Cedar Sink Trail

This is a unique trail that takes you down into a sinkhole and back out via a 1-mile loop and over 200 stairs. Especially beautiful in the late spring and summer with an abundance of wildflowers, this is a perfect hike to stretch and work your legs, have a unique experience, and enjoy the beauty of the area.

Sloan’s Crossing Pond Trail

This is a great stop for families visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with kids. A short (0.4 mile) boardwalk trail loops around the beautiful Sloan’s Crossing Pond and is ADA-accessible and an easy walk for those with strollers. We enjoyed a quick loop around after our cave tour, before heading to our next destination. There are benches and a few picnic tables, making this a great spot for a picnic lunch.

Heritage Trail

The Heritage Trail at Mammoth Cave National Park stretches for about 0.6 miles, offering glimpses of the park’s rich history and natural beauty. Along the way, visitors can glimpse the Old Guides Cemetary and stop at Sunset Point. The trail is stroller and wheelchair-friendly, providing accessible paths for everyone to enjoy. It starts at the Mammoth Cave Hotel, not far from the Visitor’s Center.

Biking at Mammoth Cave National Park

The park offers a paved bike path called the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail, perfect for a family bike ride. You can bring your own bikes or rent them in the nearby town of Cave City. If you are staying at the Mammoth Cave Lodge, bikes are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Nearby Activities

If you’re looking to explore outside of the park, consider a day trip to Nashville or Louisville, taking a boat ride at Lost River Cave, or visiting the National Corvette Museum. Check out this blog post all about activities nearby for the family!

Mammoth Cave National Park: A Must-See with Kids

Mammoth Cave National Park with kids provides a rich and diverse experience that everyone is sure to enjoy. With various tour options, educational opportunities, and outdoor adventures, your visit to Mammoth Cave is sure to be an unforgettable journey through the wonders of the underground world. So, pack your bags, gather your little adventurers, and get ready to create lasting memories in this remarkable national park.