Mammoth Cave National Park Kentucky, USA Travel Guide
The only hotel directly within park boundaries. It has various rooms and cottages, blending modern elements with a national park atmosphere.
Three developed campgrounds within the park: Mammoth Cave, Maple Springs, and Houchin Ferry. Sites for tents and RVs are available, with varying amenity levels.
Available for experienced backpackers with a free permit from the Visitor Center, offering a secluded, primitive experience.
Find your ideal stay through Booking.com or Agoda.
The main tourist hub (approx. 10 minutes east) with a wide range of budget to mid-range chain motels and hotels (e.g., Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express).
A smaller, quieter town (approx. 5 minutes south) with local motels and guesthouses, offering a rural and peaceful atmosphere.
A larger city (approx. 30-45 minutes south) with a more diverse range of lodging, including higher-end hotels like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton brands.
Cabins, homes, and apartments for rent through platforms like Vrbo, good for families or groups, offering space and privacy.
Discover the character and practicalities of different areas for your stay.
Mammoth Cave National Park and nearby towns are generally safe with low crime. Standard travel precautions are advised.
Inside the park means direct access to cave tours and trails. Cave City/Park City are good for immediate park access. Bowling Green suits diverse amenities and regional exploration.
Booking early is important for obtaining accommodation and tour access.
Expect highest prices for lodging, rental cars, and flights during summer and major holidays.
Prices are generally lower during spring and fall.
Lowest prices are typically in winter, outside of major holiday periods.
Here are specific recommendations for various travel needs.
For cost-effective stays:
For comfortable stays with good amenities:
Choices for families traveling together:
For a higher-end experience or distinct lodging:
Mammoth Cave Campground for outdoor immersion. The Lodge at Mammoth Cave for park convenience. Motels in Park City for a quiet, simple stay.
Vacation Rentals (cabins/houses) around Cave City, Park City, or Bowling Green for kitchens and living space.
Hotels like Residence Inn or Homewood Suites in Bowling Green for suites with kitchenettes.
The Lodge at Mammoth Cave's main building, built in 1928, holds historical significance as park lodging.
Whether seeking a tent site or a full-service hotel, Mammoth Cave and its surroundings have choices.
Options span from economical campgrounds to more upscale city hotels, fitting various financial plans.
Vacation rentals offer a comfortable, spacious environment for longer visits or larger groups.
Stay inside the park for unmatched access, or in nearby towns for more amenities.
Staying in Cave City or Bowling Green puts more dining, shopping, and entertainment within reach.
A few charming bed and breakfasts are scattered around the wider Mammoth Cave area, offering a personalized stay, often in historic or rural settings.
While formal homestays are rare, selecting private vacation rentals from local owners can provide glimpses into regional life and directly support area residents.
Your stay at The Lodge and other in-park services helps fund the preservation and operation of Mammoth Cave National Park.
