Mammoth Cave National Park, located in south-central Kentucky, is a national park that encompasses the longest known cave system in the world. The park’s history spans thousands of years, from its early exploration by Native American tribes to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.
Early History and Exploration
Pre-History
The Mammoth Cave area has been inhabited by various Native American tribes for thousands of years, drawn to its rich natural resources and the abundance of plant and animal life within the Green River Valley. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of ancient artifacts and cave drawings.
European Exploration
European explorers first discovered the cave system in the late 18th century. In 1797, a group of curious explorers stumbled upon the entrance to what would later be recognized as the world’s longest known cave system.
Establishment of the National Park
Advocacy and Acquisition
As the last of the Croghan heirs died, advocacy grew among wealthy citizens of Kentucky for the establishment of Mammoth Cave National Park. Private citizens formed the Mammoth Cave National Park Association in 1924. The park was authorized on May 25, 1926. Donated funds were used to purchase some farmsteads in the region, while other tracts within the proposed national park boundary were acquired by right of eminent domain.
National Park Status
Mammoth Cave National Park was dedicated on July 1, 1941, after the minimum of 45,310 acres (over 600 parcels) had been assembled.
Significant Events and Designations
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognizing its significance, Mammoth Cave was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, acknowledging its exceptional natural beauty and geological importance.
International Biosphere Reserve
The park was named an international Biosphere Reserve on September 26, 1990.
International Dark Sky Park
Mammoth Cave National Park was designated an International Dark Sky Park on October 28, 2021.
Cave System and Exploration
Mammoth–Flint Ridge Cave System
The cave system has formally been known as the Mammoth–Flint Ridge Cave System since 1972, when a connection was discovered between Mammoth Cave and the even-longer system under Flint Ridge to the north.
Length and Exploration
As of 2022, more than 426 miles (686 km) of passageways had been surveyed, over 1.5 times longer than the second-longest cave system, Mexico’s Sac Actun underwater cave.
Visitor Information
- Address: P.O. Box 7, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259-0007.
- Phone Number: 270 758-2180.
- Tours and Activities: The park offers several tour routes, each with its own unique historical significance, such as the Historic Tour, which follows the original 19th-century tourist route.