Discover the underground beauty of Lost River Cave on a private boat tour that combines adventure, history, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable experience. Perfect for all ages, this guided journey reveals stunning formations and fascinating stories beneath Franklin. Keep reading to find out why this activity is a must-do in Kentucky!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Lost River Cave has a long history dating back to Native American times and was historically used as a secret passage during the Civil War.
Conservation
The cave and surrounding park prioritize sustainability by maintaining natural habitats and minimizing environmental impact during tours.
Lost River Cave
Discover the underground beauty of Lost River Cave on a private boat tour that combines adventure, history, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable experience. Perfect for all ages, this guided journey reveals stunning formations and fascinating stories beneath Franklin. Keep reading to find out why this activity is a must-do in Kentucky!
Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a natural destination offering guided tours, hands-on workshops, seasonal events, and educational programs focused on the region’s karst landscape and native ecology. The site operates Kentucky’s only underground boat tour, a 45-minute Cave Boat Tour that combines scenic walking and a guided ride through the cave’s passageways and historical sites. Beyond the boat tour, Lost River Cave hosts a rotating lineup of experiences that include woodworking demonstrations with Wildland Woodworks, tree walks led by certified arborists, hiking focused on karst hydrogeology, and craft workshops such as hiking stick building and pollinator seed bomb making. Educational events extend to meadow BioBlitz plant inventories, composting workshops with Compost Bowling Green, and periodic community fitness and wellness activities like Yoga at the Cave and timed races such as the Snow Flurry Scurry 5K.
Programs are presented in partnership with local experts and community organizations, including Wildland Woodworks, Wild Ones Southern Kentucky Chapter, Compost Bowling Green, and certified arborist Chad Singer, ensuring subject-matter knowledge during guided experiences. Lost River Cave balances recreational access with interpretation of natural and cultural history, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about karst features, groundwater dynamics, native plants, and wildlife while participating in conservation-minded activities.
Visitors can expect scheduled programs that emphasize hands-on participation, natural interpretation, and stewardship. Lost River Cave serves as a regional hub for outdoor education, local partnerships, and experiential learning rooted in the unique geology and ecology of Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Programs accommodate families and individual explorers.
Location
Bowling Green, KY
Central Kentucky natural attraction
Signature Tour
Underground Boat
Kentucky's only underground boat tour
Programs Offered
10
Guided tours and workshops
Tour Length
45 minutes
Cave Boat Tour duration
Check event schedules and register for cave boat tours, hikes, workshops, and seasonal programs in Bowling Green, KY.
Wear Water-Appropriate Clothing
Bring clothes that can get wet and consider waterproof footwear for comfort during the boat ride.
Arrive Early for Your Tour
Arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled time ensures a relaxed start and smooth check-in.
Bring a Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
The cave interior is cooler than the outside temperature, so dress accordingly.
Respect the Environment
Stay on designated paths and follow guide instructions to protect this delicate natural area.
Waterproof Jacket
Helps keep you dry if splashes or light rain occur during the boat tour.
Comfortable Footwear
Secure, non-slip shoes are recommended for walking around the cave entrance and park grounds.
Hat and Sunglasses
Provides sun protection before or after your cave adventure.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning cave formations and your memorable experience.