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National Parks in Kentucky
Apart from being historically important, the national parks of Kentucky are major sources of entertainment and notable tourist destinations.
Some of the prominent national parks of Kentucky are Mammoth Cave National Park, Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, and Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site. The exact geographical location of the national parks is indicated in the Kentucky Maps.
How Many National Parks in Kentucky?
There is only one national park in Kentucky and the rest are national park units which are managed by the National park service. Kentucky National Parks include a couple of National Historic Trails and Historic Parks. Apart from being historically important, the National parks of Kentucky are a major source of entertainment and notable tourist destinations. National parks in Kentucky include:
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Mammoth Cave National Park
The park protects the largest known cave system in the entire world. The park highlights the caves of ancient times. The caves of the national park reflect the socio-cultural lifestyle of the indigenous inhabitants of the place. The Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Currently, over 400 miles of underground passageways have been discovered and mapped. One can indulge in biking, cave tours, hiking, and horseback riding. Check out this Mammoth Cave National Park Map to know all the things you need to know before visiting the national park.
| S. No | Name | Area | Established | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mammoth Cave National Park | 52,830 acres (21,380 ha) | 1. Jul. 1941 | Edmonson, Hart, and Barren counties, Kentucky, U.S. |
| 2 | Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area | 125,310 acres (50,710 ha) | 7. Mar. 1974 | Tennessee & Kentucky, USA |
| 3 | Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park | 344.50 acres (139.41 ha) | 17. Jul. 1916 | LaRue County, Kentucky, USA |
| 4 | Cumberland Gap National Historical Park | 20,508 acres (8,299 ha) | 11. Jun. 1940 | Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia, USA |
National Historic and Recreation Area in Kentucky
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Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
The park protects the ”Big South Fork” of the Cumberland River as it winds its way through the stunning mountains. The park is located in both Kentucky and Tennessee. This park offers the tourist to select from a plethora of adventurous sports. The activities include hiking, rock climbing, wagon rides, whitewater rafting, and camping. Some of its trails are also open to dogs, ATVs, and mountain bikes.
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Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park
This site is spread over a total area of 116 acres. This historic site shows the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. A replica of the cabin where he was born enriched in the memorial on-site, built to honor the 16th president. Additional areas to explore include the Sinking Spring, which served as the family’s water source, and Boundary Oak Trail.
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Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
The park is known for its picturesque landscape and salubrious Climate. The park lies on the border of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee. The gap was the first gateway to the west as many began their long journeys for the new land and discoveries. Beyond history, the park is filled with astounding scenery and trails.
Best Time to Visit Kentucky National Parks
Spring or very early summer is the best time to visit National Parks in Kentucky. Though the parks are open year-round, the early summer to fall season brings the most people, and frequent tours are offered. The Cumberland Gap Historical Park also offers tours of the Hensley Settlement from May to October.
