"Carter Caves" Carter Caves State Resort Park by CoAir13

Carter Caves State Resort Park Travel Guide: 22 reviews and 26 photos

On the Raven Bridge Trail - Carter Caves State Resort Park

Off the Beaten Path

Situated in the hills of North Eastern Kentucky...far away from any big town...sits this gem of a park. Underneath this beautiful wilderness, you'll find over 20 caves to explore either on your own or with a tour guide. In addition, there are 26 miles of hiking trails, canoeing and fishing on the Smokey Valley Lake, and horseback riding. This is a "resort" park so you can also golf the 18 hole course, play tennis and basketball, and cool off in the pool!

Outdoor Lover's Paradise

Raven Bridge

The caves aren't the only natural wonder on display here! There are several natural bridges scattered throughout the park. Some need to be hiked to, others are a short walk. Be sure to pick up a map at the Welcome Center. It will give you all the details regarding trail length and difficulty. The hikes are all moderate to difficult because of the hilly terrain. It can get steep and drop- offs can be pretty high!

Multi Seasonal

Overhang

While Summer has it's sun and heat and clear hiking, Spring has its wildflower blooms, and Autumn has its magnificent foliage, Winter is just as good a time to visit as any other season. There are 2 caves closed because of bat hibernation, but all others are open. For Winter tips and photos check out Stephen-KarenConn's Carter Cave page.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Unspoiled beauty at its finest!
Cons:Bugs...and more bugs!
In a nutshell:A must see for nature lovers!!

Intro Updated Aug 8, 2005
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Reviews (17)

Mini Golf - Carter Caves State Resort Park

Mini Golf Things to Do (11)

There is a miniature 18 hole golf course if you get bored with hiking and caving. Ethan and his friends had fun, but... more travel advice

Food and Drink - Carter Caves State Resort Park

Food and Drink What to Pack (2)

If you are staying in the cottages, tent camping, or RV-ing, make sure you have enough food and drink for your stay.... more travel advice

This is IT! - Carter Caves State Resort Park

This is IT! Restaurants (1)

This is the only choice you have as far as eating out goes. The dining room is informal and comfortable. While the menu... more travel advice

Local Music in the Ampitheatre - Carter Caves State Resort Park

Daily Activities Things to Do (11)

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the park has daily activities that range from canoe trips, to face painting for... more travel advice

Warnings and Dangers (1)
Slippery Caves

Hotels (2)
See All The Lodge

Comments (10)

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Bwana_Brown Apr 22, 2009 at 6:30 PM

Judging from your excellent photos and tips, I think I would love exploring the Carter Caves area, especially Laurel Cave! I really enjoy exploring rugged little places like this.
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Nemorino Apr 2, 2007 at 3:07 PM

What a great-looking place for hiking, canoeing and spelunking!
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Stephen-KarenConn Jan 3, 2006 at 5:18 AM

Excellent page, Jen. Can't believe I had not seen it yet. Looks like you and Ethan explored the area rather thoroughly. We've got to get back to Carter Caves in the summertime.
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goingsolo Sep 8, 2005 at 7:33 PM

Another great page! I didn't get to do the Wild Cave tour at Mammoth b/c it was sold out. Like the idea of a self guided cave exploration though. Looks like you guys had a great time. :)
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ferdnbean Aug 18, 2005 at 9:10 PM

Your pages are great. I hope that nothing will deter you from sharing your spirit here in VT. There are those who do care about sharing travel experiences and seeing the beauty in this world through the words and eyes of others! Wayne
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manuelEB Aug 12, 2005 at 7:31 PM

Selling a Coleman "BC Light Dom Tent 300 Sky Roof" good for 6 for the price of one night in those cottage... d-;
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thecatsmeow Aug 8, 2005 at 7:10 PM

Jen great page. Oh those Cabins sound wonderful. Especially the A/C. I think the spelunking looks like fun also. Joyce
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johanl Aug 6, 2005 at 11:50 PM

Very nice page. Would like to see you on horseback !!!!
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Orkaena Aug 6, 2005 at 8:28 PM

NOW I get it, fantastic pages and tips, well done my friend! Such a place.
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gregoryr1m Aug 6, 2005 at 7:49 PM

Hey Jen, I love state parks. There is always something unique to each one. I love the natural bridges of this one. I hope to visit this place one day.