Category: Kentucky

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Kentucky National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States

6 National Parks in Kentucky You Must See!

Mammoth Cave National Park
The kids deep inside Mammoth Cave at Mammoth Cave National Park

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.

National Parks in Kentucky

Deep inside Mammoth Cave

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 Historic Site

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

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Post Updated: 3/19/2024

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Kentucky United States

Kentucky Stonehenge- An Unexpected, Quirky Little Find!

Whenever I plan out one of our trips, I spend hours scrolling around on Google Maps to see what’s along our route.  When I was mapping out our road trip to Camp Jellystone Mammoth Cave, I came across a place called Kentucky Stonehenge.  Sure…we’ve all heard of Stonehenge (heck, I’ve even been there!), but Kentucky Stonehenge?  Naturally, I was curious and decided that we had to check it out.

I have to admit, Kentucky Stonehenge wasn’t quite what I imagined it to be.  In my mind, the stone circle was in the middle of a park.  You can imagine our surprise when we pulled up to discover it was actually in someone’s front yard.

Of course, this didn’t deter us from pulling into their driveway, hopping out of the car, and scoping out this quirky little attraction.

What in the World is Kentucky Stonehenge?

Located in Munfordville, Kentucky, this replica of the famous Stonehenge in England is made up of 43 concrete blocks that weigh around two tons each.

Created by Munfordville resident, Chester Fryer, in the early 2000s, Kentucky Stonehenge was built as a tribute to his wife who had recently passed away. Fryer spent months gathering materials and constructing each block by hand, and the attraction has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Visitors can explore the replica stones, which are arranged to align with the summer solstice, and admire the detailed stonework put into each piece. There’s also a small museum on site that showcases various artifacts and explains the history of the original Stonehenge.

Where is Kentucky Stonehenge Located?

Kentucky Stonehenge is located at:

 

201 Lynn Ave
Munfordville, KY 42765

Visitors can pop in anytime between 8 and 5.  

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While we were in the area, we also visited Mammoth Cave National Park, Yogi’s Jellystone Park: Mammoth Cave, and Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace National Historical Park.

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Kentucky National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores UNESCO World Heritage Site United States

Visiting Mammoth Cave with Kids

Deep inside Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave is one of the most incredible natural wonders in the United States. Located in central Kentucky, this cave system has been captivating visitors for centuries. With over 400 miles of underground pathways, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system.

The cave offers visitors a variety of tours, each one offering a unique perspective into the cave’s incredible limestone formations, underground rivers, and diverse cave-dwelling wildlife. Visitors can take guided tours on foot, by boat, or even go spelunking.

Mammoth Cave National Park is a great place to experience with kids!  We booked the Historic Tour which is a 2-hour, 2-mile-long tour of the world’s longest cave system.  The kids enjoyed exploring the depths of the cave. It was an easy walk for them and they handled the stairs at the end like champs!

While you’re waiting for your tour, we suggest going through the museum at the Visitor’s Center.  It is very informative and gave us a chance to teach the kids about some of the things they may encounter in the cave.

Mammoth Cave Tours

To visit the cave, there are a variety of tours available to suit all levels of physical ability and interests. The most popular tour is the Historic Tour, which takes visitors through the cave’s most famous passages and rooms, while the Domes and Dripstones Tour requires more strenuous activity and provides a unique perspective on the cave’s geologic history.

Tickets for tours can be purchased online in advance or at the park’s visitor center upon arrival. It is important to remember that the cave temperature remains a constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so visitors should dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.

One of the most popular tours is the Frozen Niagara Tour, which takes visitors through a variety of chambers filled with unique rock formations. The tour ends at the Frozen Niagara formation, a stunning curtain-like wall of crystalized mineral deposits.

For those feeling adventurous, the Wild Cave Tour is a must-try. This tour takes visitors off the beaten path and into some of the less-explored areas of the cave system, allowing them to experience the thrill of spelunking.

Hiking at Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park boasts a diverse range of hiking trails that are perfect for all levels of hikers.

For a leisurely stroll, you can take a scenic route through the park’s remarkable karst landscapes. And for the adventurer in you, there are some strenuous treks that offer panoramic views. Among the many hikes available in the park, the Cedar Sink Trail is one of the most popular. This hike takes you through a sinkhole and past a stunning waterfall. On this trail, you’ll also encounter a range of rare plant and animal species.

If you’re interested in more challenging options, then the Big Hollow Trail is an excellent option. Get ready for a steep ascent that will put your fitness levels to the test. Don’t worry though, because the incredible panoramic views of the hills and valleys that await you at the top make it all worth it.

For those who want to learn more about the park’s rich history, then the Violet City Lantern Tour is a must-try activity. This nighttime walk will take you through an old mining town and give you a glimpse into the park’s past.

No matter which trail you choose, always remember to bring enough water, wear sturdy shoes, and leave no trace behind. So, come and explore the natural wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park!

Mammoth Cave Visiting Information

In addition to cave tours, Mammoth Cave National Park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and ranger-led activities.

Visitors can access the park by car, with easy access from Interstate 65. The park also offers shuttle services and guided tours for those without a vehicle.

Overall, Mammoth Cave National Park is an unforgettable destination that provides a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages and interests.

Mammoth Cave National Park is open year-round, but hours vary based on the season. Generally, the park opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM during the peak season (May through October). During the off-season (November through April), the park hours are shortened, with the visitor center opening at 8:00 AM and closing at 4:30 PM.


It is important to note that not all cave tours are offered year-round, with some tours only available during specific seasons. It is recommended to check the park’s website or call ahead for specific tour availability and hours. Additionally, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be changes to park hours and tour availability, so visitors should check the park’s website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

Mammoth Cave is a natural wonder that deserves to be experienced. Whether you’re a seasoned caver or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, this cave system is sure to impress.

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For future reference, save our post: Visiting Mammoth Cave National Park with Kids.   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

While we were in the area, we also visited Abraham Lincoln’s Birth Place,  the National Corvette Museum, and stayed at Jellystone Mammoth Cave.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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Kentucky National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park- the first Lincoln Memorial

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site

Nestled amongst the cornfields of Hodgenville, Kentucky is the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park.  The site features a memorial building which houses the a replica of the cabin the 16th president was born in.

For over a century, patriots and history buffs have flocked to rural Kentucky to honor the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and to marvel at his humble beginnings.  Since I’m a huge Lincoln fan and an even bigger nerd, we made a point of stopping by on our summer road trip. Within less than a year we visited both his birthplace, the Ford’s Theater, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the Petersen House (where he died).

Seeing Lincoln’s humble beginning was pretty incredible and made my little nerd heart so happy.  We enjoyed our time walking around the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, exploring the trails, and visiting the spring where Lincoln took his first sips of water.

 

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site

The Lincoln's Sinking Spring History

It is believed that Sinking Spring was one of the main reason Thomas Lincoln chose this site to establish his family home.  The spring would provide the family with fresh water and the fertile farmland would allow the family to grow crops.

In the late fall of 1808, Thomas and Nancy Lincoln settled on the Sinking Spring Farm.  Two months later, on February 12, 1809, they welcome a son- Abraham Lincoln- in a one room log cabin.  The Lincoln’s lived in this cabin until Abraham was two years old.  At that time, the family moved to the Knob Creek Farm where they would remain for five years before settling in Indiana.

The original log cabin was dismantled before 1865.  Local legend tells us that a New York Businessman by the name of Alfred W. Dennett purchased the Lincoln farm in 1894 and used the logs to construct a cabin similar to the original birthplace cabin.  Soon, the cabin was dismantled and re-erected for a traveling expedition.

Years later, the Lincoln Farm Association acquired these logs and used them to re-build the cabin seen in the Memorial building.

I was hell-bent on drink some water from the spring, but found that it was fenced off when we got there.  Instead, I stood there envying a toad that somehow found his way into the spring.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace: The First Lincoln Memorial

The Memorial Building at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park was constructed between 1909 and 1911 to commemorate the accomplishments, life, and legacy of one of America’s favorite presidents.  The building, houses the Symbolic Birth Cabin- a replica of the humble cabin Lincoln was born in.

The Greek and Roman inspired Memorial Building is constructed of Tennessee marble and Connecticut pink granite.  The fifty-six steps leading up to the building represent the fifty-six years of Lincoln’s life.  The sixteen windows, sixteen fence poles, and the sixteen rosettes on the ceiling symbolize that he was the sixteenth president.  

On the centennial of his birth, the cornerstone of the memorial was laid by President Theodore Roosevelt. Two years later, in 1911, the building was dedicated by President W. Howard Taft.

The Symbolic Cabin at Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site

Visitor Center Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Memorial National Historical Site’s Visitor Center Museum is a must-see.  The collection includes relics from Lincoln’s early-life including the family Bible and a table built by his father, Thomas.  Junior Rangers, and history buffs alike, can view tools that the family would have used to tend to their farm.

Speaking of Junior Rangers, don’t forget to pick up your kiddos Junior Ranger Badge while you’re at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Memorial National Historical Site!

Visiting Lincoln's Birthplace

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park is open from 9 AM until 5 PM EST.  The Memorial Building closes at 4:30.

The park is closed on New Years Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

The physical address is:

2995 Lincoln Farm Road
Hodgenville, KY 42748

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For future reference, save our post: Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site.   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

While we were in the area, we also visited Mammoth Cave National Park, and the National Corvette Museum, and stayed at Jellystone Mammoth Cave.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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Hotel Review Kentucky United States

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

The kids at Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave is a must-do if you’re visiting Kentucky.  This camp-resort features cabins as well as RV and tent sites nestled in the scenic mountains between Nashville and Louisville.  It is located within just miles of the magnificent Mammoth Cave National Park.  There is plenty in the area, and at Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave, to keep you busy for days!

What is there to do at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave?

We were incredibly impressed by how much there was to do at the park.  From sunup to sundown (and beyond) we stayed busy!

  •  Splash ground
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beach Area/Lake
    • Swimming
    • Paddle Boarding
    • Floating Obstacle Course
  • Gem Mining
  • Pedal Cart Track
  • Fishing
  • Putt Putt Golf
  • Arcade
  • Playground
  • Jump Pillow & Pad
  • Planned Activities
The kids at Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave

Some of our favorite attractions were Karst Beach, putt putt golf, the jumping pillow, and the pedal cart track.

We strongly suggest renting or bringing a golf cart for your stay.  The park is spread out over several acres and having a golf cart made zooming around a breeze.

The Attractions

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    • Splash Ground – The splash ground is the perfect spot to cool off after a round of mini-golf or a pedal cart race! The splash ground features water cannons, fountains and other water features that your kids will absolutely love!

 

    • Swimming Pool – Adjacent to the splash ground, you’ll find the swimming pool. The pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas to help you unwind after a long journey.

 

    • Beach Area/Lake – The highlight of the Jellystone Mammoth Cave is Karst Beach. The 2.3-acre lake with a sandy beach features a 1300-square-foot Wibit (a floating, inflatable obstacle course!). The beach also features volleyball and Corcl (small boats). The beach is lined with beach loungers and chairs. It is conveniently located right next to the camp store which features full food services, including Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs and Hunt’s Pizza.

 

    • Gem Mining – You can’t visit cave country without doing a bit of mining. Lucky for you, you can  mine for gems without even leaving the park! Several bags and buckets, ranging in prices and quality, are available for purchase.

 

    • Pedal Cart Track – Whew! The pedal carts are a workout, but boy are they fun! Challenge your kids to a race around the pedal cart track. The pedal carts come in various sizes, and the seats are easy to adjust.

 

    • Fishing – Bring your fishing poles! Jellystone Park offers two different fishing holes. Live bait is available in the shop.

 

    • Putt Putt Golf – Who doesn’t love a round of mini-golf? The park has an 18-hole course that is free to play. The back 9 is a bit challenging and loads of fun!

 

    • Arcade – Looking for a fun spot to cool down? You’ll find a super cool arcade located right next to the putt-putt golf course.

 

    • Playground – Our kids had so much fun playing on the playground. The playground is located next to the pedal cart track, Jumping Pillow, and mining sluice. Be sure to play a round of Gaga Ball while you’re there! This is our family’s new favorite game!

 

    • Jumping Pillow Pad – While the beach, pool, and splash pad may be hoppin’ during the day, the inflatable jumping pillow and jumping pad are where it’s at during the evening hours. And yes, grown-ups can jump, too.

 

    • Planned Activities – Throughout the day, there are various activities throughout the park. These include character meet and greets, ice cream socials, wagon rides, crafts, relay races, parades, and much more! We downloaded the app, and notifications were sent to my phone 15 minutes before the events began. It was a super convenient way to keep up with all of the wonderful planned activities.

 

Our Experience

We were graciously hosted by Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave during our stay. That being said, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

After an 11-hour drive from Florida, we arrived in Kentucky. We unloaded our belongings into our cozy cabin, put on our bathing suits, and immediately headed to the lake so the kids could burn off some energy. The water was extremely refreshing, and the kids had a blast showing off all of their best moves.

When the lake closed at 6, we ventured over to the splash area, jumping pillow, and pedal carts for some racing. It was a perfect way to spend an evening!

Our kids wake up early, which ended up working to our advantage. It started pouring at about 9:15 – the storm lasted the entire day. However, by the time the rain came, we had already played on the playground, raced pedal carts, played mini-golf, jumped on the pillow pad, and completed an art activity in the rec center.

The rest of the day was a bit of a wash, but Jellystone Park still had plenty of activities to keep everyone happy, and even had backup plans for activities that weren’t feasible with the weather.

On our last morning there, we spent a bit more time at the pedal cart track and playground. We played a round of our new favorite game, Gaga Ball, before we checked out.

The staff at Jellystone Mammoth Cave was extremely helpful and friendly. We enjoyed our stay there, despite the weather. The park was clean, comfortable, and offered several activities and amenities. There are countless things to do around the park, so we never ran out of stuff to do.”

Where is Jellystone Park located?

Yogi’s Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave is located at:

950 Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127

Day Trips from Jellystone Mammoth Cave

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For future reference, save our post: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park:  Mammoth Cave, Kentucky.   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

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