An ideal introduction to caving at Kentucky Action Park

By Hope S. Philbrick

Outlaw Cave is cavernous and picturesque, with many colorful formations including large floor-to-ceiling columns. Water drips consistently in this active, misty cave.

First used as a shelter and storage area by Native Americans, the cave is rumored to have also been used a hideout for many notorious outlaws, including Jesse James.

Jesse James tales may attract the kids, but grownups will find that it’s the native history that proves most intriguing on the half-hour guided tour: Learn how the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation studied and utilized the cave’s unique thermodynamics and meteorology.

The key take-away: “As a whole, we all contribute to cave ecology,” explained one tour guide. So don’t litter. Recycle. Take care of Mother Earth.

What Distinguishes This Cave…

The cave has been kept as natural as possible, with no boardwalks or stairs added. Since you can walk right in, stand tall, and keep an eye on the open doorway, it’s an ideal introduction to caving.

The cave is wheelchair-accessible and the 30-minute tours are not strenuous.

What To Do…

Kentucky Action Park offers horseback riding, a zip-line, go carts, bumper cars, miniature golf, trampoline and other amusements.

Odds of Encountering Children…

Very high. For the best odds, visit when school is in session.

Kentucky Action Park is a kid-oriented place, but children are generally much more interested in the amusement park than the natural cave.

Getting There…

Exit 53 off I-65. Head West and look for Kentucky Action Park on your left.

More Information…

Outlaw Cave Tours

Cave City Convention & Visitors Bureau
270-773-8833

Read More about the subterranean world “Under Kentucky”

– Photos © HSP Media LLC

Featured products, services and/or travel arrangements may have been complimentary in part or in full; this affords the research opportunity but does not sway opinion.

Hope S. Philbrick is founder and editor-in-chief of Getaways for Grownups. She became a freelance writer and editor because she believes that work and fun should not be mutually exclusive. Her work has appeared in dozens of publications nationwide. When not writing, she can usually be found on the road or savoring something tasty.