6 National Parks in Kentucky You Must See!

As far as it National Parks go, the Bluegrass State pretty much has it all! The National Parks in Kentucky include a national park, 2 national historic parks, a national battlefield, and a national river and recreation area, plus they boast a national historic trail.

Table of Contents

National Parks in Kentucky

Mammoth Cave National Park

Let’s kick off our list with the world-famous, Mammoth Cave National Park. Not only is this gem a national park, but it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site features the world’s largest cave system. To date, more than 425 miles have been mapped and explored!

Park rangers offer several different types of tours that span from 1 to 6 hours long. This is an absolute must-see if you find yourself in Kentucky!

If you’re traveling with kids, consider staying at the nearby Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park- Mammoth Cave.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Are you seeking a vacation spot filled with outdoor adventure, cultural significance, and natural beauty? Look no further than Cumberland Gap National Park!

With over 85 miles of hiking trails, there’s certainly no shortage of breathtaking views and challenging treks to be explored.

If you’re interested in history, don’t miss a visit to the Hensley Settlement, where you can immerse yourself in the life and times of early Appalachian settlers.

Fort Donelson National Battlefield

This thousand-acre monument commemorates the first Union victory in the Civil War. Fort Donelson National Battlefield encompasses two Confederate forts: Donelson and Heiman. The Union Army overtook both forts in February of 1862 and gained control of the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

The Trail of Tears commemorates the forced relocation of indigenous tribes. Between 1830 and 1850, the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw Muscogee and Seminole people were all moved west of the Mississippi River. Thousands died during the long, difficult journey.

The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail keeps their story alive as it winds through nine states. Along the way, signs mark significant landmarks along the trail. Kentucky is home to 9 of these markers.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park is one of our favorite national parks in Kentucky! It’s actually 2 separate sites: Sinking Spring, which Lincoln was born, and Knob Creek, where his family lived for 5 years when he was young.

The Sinking Spring site is a must-see! Here, you’ll find the park’s visitor center and the massive memorial building. The memorial building encases a replica of the log cabin that Lincoln was born.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau.

Interestingly, this area also encompasses the former site of the Blue Heron coal mining community, which operated from 1937 until 1962. The community is memorialized with an outdoor museum and recreated buildings.

What Should I Take With Me?

When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.

Backpack– to store all of your belongings
Dry Bag– to keep your electronics and wallet safe, in case of rain (or kayaking)
Trail GPS– the Garmin Oregon handled GPS works offline. You can view maps, waypoints, tracks, and trails even if you don’t have a signal.
First-Aid Kit– this ultralight, watertight medical kit is a must if you’re hitting the trails!
Sunscreen- yes, you can get sunburned in the forest.
Insect Repellant
Water Bottle– Always pack more water than you think you’ll need!
Snacks
Hammock– I honestly pack a hammock on most hiking trips. Psh, I even bring them along with me when we go on cruises. There are plenty of spots in the forest to put up a hammock and chill out for a bit.

If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags, a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.

How to Visit the Parks for Free

Although some National Park sites are free, some of them require a fee to enter. This fee ranges from $5 per vehicle to $35 per vehicle whereas some charge up to $20 a person.

The National Parks offer Free National Park Days where you can access the park for free! Learn more about these days.

If you have a fourth-grader, you can get an annual pass that grants you access to all of the parks for free! Every year, starting on September 1st, all fourth-grade students are eligible for an Every Kid Outdoors Pass. The pass grants free access to the entire family! Fill out the form at www.everykidoutdoors.gov

Other National Park Resources

National Parks in Nearby States

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