Cave tour tickets (rolling release)Timed release
Tickets become available up to 6 months in advance and frequently sell out weeks ahead. Reserve early via recreation.gov. Trip window: Year-round (tours daily except Christmas Day).
National Park Service · KY
Mammoth Cave National Park Cave Tours
Ranger-guided tours of the world's longest cave system, with up to 18 tour types bookable on recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance and frequently selling out.
Permit requiredtimedEntryEasy to difficult (varies by tour)
Access requirement
How to get a permit
Permit rules
QuotaEach ranger-guided tour has a fixed ticket capacity and frequently sells out; walk-up availability is not guaranteed.
GroupTickets sold per person; youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
FeesPer-ticket tour fees vary by tour and age, ranging from roughly $4 to $79; Senior/Access pass holders receive a 50% discount for the cardholder. Cancellation fees of $1 to $12 per ticket apply.
TransferTickets are picked up at the visitor center; arrive at least 30 minutes before tour time. Changes are treated as cancellations.
SafetyTours involve stairs, uneven terrain, low passages, and cool temperatures; specialty caving tours are strenuous. Check official requirements before booking.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
MAMMOTH CAVE CAMPGROUND
Reservable
Aug 2582Aug 2680Aug 2773Aug 2863Aug 2963Aug 3086Aug 3180
Availability: Recreation.gov
MAPLE SPRINGS
Reservable + first-come
Aug 255Aug 265Aug 275Aug 283Aug 294Aug 306Aug 314
Availability: Recreation.gov
MAMMOTH PICNIC SHELTERS
Reservable · Shelter G-1 Enclosed Shelter (205173) Shelter G-2 Open Shelter (205174)
Aug 25—Aug 261Aug 271Aug 28—Aug 292Aug 302Aug 311
Availability: Recreation.gov
Dog Creek Day Use (KY)
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 261Aug 271Aug 281Aug 291Aug 301Aug 311
Availability: Recreation.gov