Twelve peaceful and scenic backcountry campsites offer opportunities to find solitude and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Mammoth Cave National Park’s rugged hills and majestic woodlands.
Overnight camping is permitted at designated sites and along floodplains more than ½ mile away from ferry crossings or developed campgrounds. Each campsite holds a maximum of 8 people.
All sites except McCoy Hollow have a nearby water source. Boil and treat water before drinking, or carry in your own drinking water.
Go in person to obtain a free backcountry use permit and a free trail map showing backcountry campsites at the Visitor Center Information Desk. Detailed guidebooks are available for sale.
Mammoth Cave Campground Information about the park's main camping area. more...
Houchins Ferry Campground Information about camping "primitive" at this riverbank site. more...
Maple Springs Group Campground The campground for groups and horseback riders. more...
Camping Regulations Camping Do's and Dont's. more...
Did You Know?
In 1841, cave owner Dr. John Croghan believed the cave air might cure his patients suffering from tuberculosis. He brought 16 patients into Mammoth Cave that winter and housed them in stone and wood huts. After some perished, they left the cave, for of course the cave air offered no cure.