Travel to Kentucky
MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK
This National Park in west-central Kentucky is famous for its spectacular 300-mile-long underground limestone cave system, said to be the largest in the world, and still not fully explored. Aboveground the terrain is hilly, with oak-hickory forests and the Green and Nolin Rivers.
Activities: Hiking and backpacking are possible on 70 miles of hiking trails, 10 miles of which are limited to day-hiking. Horses are allowed on most trails. Canoeing is available on the two rivers. There’s also a new 7-mile bike trail. Bikes are not allowed on other trails.
Camping Regulations: In most of the park camping is limited to 12 designated backcountry camping areas, although it’s also allowed along river banks and on river islands. Campfires may be built only in preexisting fire rings.
A permit is required to camp in the backcountry, and may be obtained at the park campground entrance. Visitors must sign in at trailhead registers. Access to the backcountry requires taking a
ferry across the Green River or driving a long circuitous route.
For Further Information: Mammoth Gave National Park, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259; (502)758-2251.
