USDA Forest Service
 
"" Daniel Boone National Forest USDA Logo and Forest Service Shield
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USDA Forest Service
Daniel Boone
National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391

Phone: 859-745-3100
FAX: 859-744-1568

Caving Exploration

As of May 22, 2009, the Forest Services has closed mines and caves to protect bats due to White-Nose Syndrome.

The Daniel Boone National Forest has approximately three zones where limestone comes to the surface and caves are found. There are an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 caves on National Forest System lands in Kentucky. Within the Proclamation Boundary of this Forest there are an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 caves that the Forest Service may have to manage as they acquire lands in the boundaries.

Cave Locations and Access. The Forest Service does not regulate recreational caving on this Forest. However, the Forest Service recognizes that caves are a sensitive resource and must be protected. Caves can be locations of sensitive wildlife or cultural resources. In order to protect this valuable resource, the Forest Service does not release information about the locations of specific caves under Forest Service management. In the past, the release of cave site locations has resulted in overuse, vandalism, and accidents by inexperienced cavers. We encourage you to contact a local Grotto (grottos are chapters of the National Speleological Society) to get more information.

Because of the fragmented ownership patterns within the Forest's proclamation boundary, it may be hard to determine whether a cave is on state, federal, or private properly. Geological and topographical maps may be purchased that will help you with cave locations. Please remember:

  • Access to some caves may require crossing private land.
  • Ask permission for the privilege to cross private land.
  • Leave fence gates the way you found them.
  • Avoid disturbing livestock, leave private buildings alone, and stay on established roads or trails.
  • If you notice signs of vandalism, notify the landowners or land managers as soon as possible.

On this Forest 10 caves have been gated. This is done to protect threatened and endangered species. In addition, several caves have had seasonal or year-round closure signs placed in the entrance. Please respect and abide by these devices.

Cave Etiquette. If you should choose to go caving (once the Cave Closure Order is rescinded) below are some suggestions to protect both you and the caves you visit:

  • Before you cave, be prepared.
  • Obtain a cave map, if available.
  • Obtain permission to enter from the landowner.
  • Be aware that every cave is unique with its own special conditions and hazards. Some may include flash floods, cold temperatures, vertical drops, and bad air.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you should return.

Gearing Up

  • Obtain a good helmet. How much is your head worth?
  • Carry a minimum of three reliable light sources, including a headlamp attached to a helmet.
  • Wear comfortable, durable, foot gear appropriate for caving.
  • Wear gloves.
  • Bring a first aid kit.
  • Bring enough food and water for an unexpected stay in the cave.
  • Bring marking or flagging tape for marking your route. Nothing permanent.
  • Inspect your gear to ensure proper operation.

In The Cave

  • Avoid touching or walking on any cave formation. Disturbance may destroy these formations forever.
  • Stay on established trails. Avoid trampling new areas and impacting the cave environment. Respect closed areas.
  • Do not mark on the walls of the caves.
  • If a passage is too fragile, turn back.
  • If you discover any prehistoric or historic artifacts, leave them alone. Collecting specimens or removing any materials from any cave is strictly prohibited by law.

Pack It In, Pack It Out:

  • Used carbide is poisonous to cave inhabitants. Pack it out.
  • Trash. Use plastic containers or doubled plastic bags. Take out all food scraps so animals do not associate food with human presence.

Avoid becoming lost

  • Pay attention to your route and the way out.
  • Look backward occasionally, the cave looks different coming back that way.
  • Use temporary flagging to mark your way and remove them all on the way out.

We hope the information we have provided will be helpful. If you would like to learn more about caves contact:

The National Speleological Society
2813 Cave Avenue
Huntsville, Alabama 35810
(205) 852-1300

Author: Recreation Staff
Last Updated: June 4, 2009

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