About this place

Overview There are two shelters available at the Mammoth Cave Picnic Area for visitor use, two of which can be reserved. Shelter G-1 in Picnic Area is an Enclosed Shelter *(Pick up the key at the Mammoth Cave Campground Kiosk 10am on the day of your reservation.)*Check-in 10am. Check-out is no later than 6pm. Let the attendant know when you are planning on checking out so they can make arraignments to inspect the shelter and collect the key.Shelter G-2 in Picnic Area is an Open ShelterThe shelters are within Mammoth Cave National Park, which is best known for its cave that extends over 400 miles. The cave formation began millions of years ago when mildly acidic groundwater dissolved on beds of limestone, creating subterranean passages. Native inhabitants of the cave include bats, spiders, and blindfish.New Winter Hours for Enclosed shelter (G-1). December 1st, 2025, to February 28th, 2027. During this time only, hours will be 9am to 4pm. Key and instructions will be picked up at the Visitor Center.Recreation Picnicking, enjoying the outdoors, and exploring the caves are of primary interest to visitors. The site has trailheads to the Green River Bluffs Trail and the Dixon Cave Trail. Both hiking trails are about a mile long. Facilities The picnic shelters are across from the Visitor Center parking lot, nestled in the Picnic Area. Each shelter is equipped to accommodate up to 60 people. Choose from the enclosed shelter or the open shelters, and enjoy the grassy surrounding area as well. Natural Features The picnic shelters are surrounded by oak, elm, and maple trees in the Green River Valley. The park sits above the labyrinth of underground caves and extends out over rolling hill country. Nearby Attractions The Green River is where anglers can fish for perch, bass and bluegills, and where kayakers can paddle past lush, tree-lined banks. Any part of Mammoth Cave National Park's 52,800 acres is worth exploring through trails or scenic drives. Charges & Cancellations For rules and reservation policies please follow the link below: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies