Mammoth Cave Campground
4.34601 reviewsP.O. Box 7, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Mammoth Cave Campground
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $25 to $50 depending on the type of site reserved. Additional costs include reservation fees and cancellation fees as outlined in the rules.
About this campground
Discover your gateway to underground wonders at Mammoth Cave Campground, where 109 primitive campsites nestle beneath a canopy of ancient trees just moments from the world's most extensive cave system. Each paved loop winds through this forested sanctuary, placing you within easy reach of the Visitor Center and the legendary limestone labyrinths that have captivated explorers for generations.
Campsites are primarily geared toward primitive camping but can accommodate both tents and RVs. The campground includes designated group camping areas. There are no cabins or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a UNESCO World Heritage Site where human history stretches back thousands of years. Mammoth Cave stands as Earth's longest recorded cave system, with more than 400 miles of mapped passages that continue to reveal new secrets. These limestone and sandstone galleries have witnessed Native American ceremonies, sheltered Civil War refugees, and inspired countless tales of discovery, making every visit a journey through both geological and human time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Kentucky's diverse seasons in all their glory—from the gentle awakening of wildflowers in spring's mild embrace to the golden tapestry of fall foliage. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cave exploration's natural air conditioning, while winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland occasionally dusted with snow, offering a completely different perspective on this timeless terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to misty mornings in the scenic valleys carved by the meandering Green River, where Kentucky's rolling hills create a living amphitheater of natural beauty. The campground's setting offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances—watch white-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows at dawn, observe wild turkeys strutting through golden evening light, and fall asleep to the symphony of crickets and owls that have serenaded travelers here for centuries.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the heart of Kentucky's karst country, where the Green River has sculpted dramatic valleys through ancient limestone and sandstone layers over millions of years. This remarkable landscape of rolling hills, hidden springs, and disappearing streams tells the story of water's patient artistry, creating not just the world's longest cave system below your feet, but also the breathtaking surface features that make Mammoth Cave National Park a geological wonderland worth exploring above and below ground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features accessible campsites with paved paths, accessible parking spaces, and nearby restrooms. Accessibility options include accessible grills and flush toilets.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are spacious enough for most campers. Specific dimensions are not provided but some complaints cite uneven terrain.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is described as moderate. While some campers note good spacing between sites, others report that the lack of foliage between sites reduces privacy.
Total Campsites109 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend avoiding sites near the road due to noise and choosing sites within Loop C for spaciousness and tree cover.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest Loop C has spacious campsites with good shade and proximity to restrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is after 1:00 PM CST.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 11:00 AM CST.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
Group sites are available accommodating multiple tents and vehicles, though specific limits are not detailed in the source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four paved loops with restrooms located within each loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from March 1 to November 29.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited due to high demand and reservations are highly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date with fees including a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees if paid, and forfeiture of the first night's use fee for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of activities including hiking, biking, birding, and star gazing. Its proximity to Mammoth Cave allows for easy access to cave tours, which are a highlight according to reviews.
Hiking
There are 14 miles of hiking trails accessible from the campground. Popular trails include the trail to the River Styx and Echo River Spring. Reviews generally praise the trails as well-maintained and easy to navigate.Biking
Trails for biking are well-marked and include multi-use paths near the Visitor Center. One user highlighted the Mammoth Cave Rail Trail as a must-visit for biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Deer and wild turkeys are frequently seen in the early morning and at dusk, adding to the campsite's natural appeal.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs such as night sky presentations and historical cave tours are a highlight. Educational content includes the park's geology and ecosystem.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are restricted to designated fire rings. During burn bans, only propane grills are permitted.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are common in the park and may carry diseases. Visitors are advised to take precautions such as using repellents and checking for ticks.
Active alertsBurn bans may be implemented during dry seasons, limiting campfire use to propane grills.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Cave City, KY, including medical facilities, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 29.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are provided, with a central waste station available near the campground entrance. Recycling options include bottles and cans, but there is limited provision for paper and cardboard.
Proximity to water featuresThe Green River is within walking distance, offering opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noisy generators, lack of free showers, and crowded conditions during peak seasons.
HostNo specific details about campground hosts are available.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 7, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Driving directionsFrom the North: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 53 (Cave City Exit). Turn right onto KY-70. Follow 70/255 as it becomes the Mammoth Cave Parkway in the park. Follow the Mammoth Cave Parkway towards the Visitor Center. Turn left into the campground by the Cavers Camp Store. From the South: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 48 (Park City Exit). Turn left onto KY-255 and follow 255 as it becomes the Park City Road into the park. Follow Park City Road until it joins the Mammoth Cave Parkway; turn left. Follow the Mammoth Cave Parkway towards the Visitor Center. Turn left into the campground by the Cavers Camp Store.
Access to the campground is via paved roads, but travelers are advised not to rely solely on GPS systems as routes may be misleading or incorrect.Nearby places
Cave City, KY (11 miles
20 minutes), Bowling Green, KY (30 miles
40 minutes), Park City, KY (6 miles
10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, food, and fuel can be purchased at the camp store adjacent to the campground
additional services are available in Cave City, KY (11 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
601 reviews
Mammoth Cave Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed but lean positive. The campground is celebrated for its proximity to the Visitor Center and Mammoth Cave, as well as its natural beauty. Complaints often focus on the showers and site maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 601 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and the convenience of walking to trails and the Visitor Center. Wildlife sightings and ranger-led programs receive consistent acclaim.
Based on 601 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback includes the coin-operated showers (described as 'dirty' and 'outdated'), poor site maintenance (muddy terrain, unclean fire pits), and lack of oversight by rangers during quiet...
Based on 601 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, book cave tours in advance, and consider campsites further from the road for less noise. Ensure food is locked away to prevent wildlife disturbances.
Based on 601 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall receive the most positive reviews for moderate weather and fewer bugs. Summer visitors often complain about mosquitoes and high humidity. Winter camping is less common due to limited...
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Camper Quotes
"The bathrooms were clean and air-conditioned, which was a relief in the summer heat." "The coin-operated showers were a letdown—dirty and with no temperature control." "Walking to the Visitor Center...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 091 in Loop D is often highlighted for its full hookups and proximity to facilities. Site 078 in Loop C is described as spacious but on uneven terrain.
Based on 601 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites and restrooms are appreciated, though some users reported uneven trails that could be challenging for wheelchairs.
Based on 601 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must remain leashed. Users recommend planning for pet waste disposal, as bags are not always available on-site.
Based on 601 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025