Is prior experience necessary to join?

No experience is required; volunteers of all skill levels are welcome and will be guided.

Do I need to bring my own tools?

Tools are provided, but personal gloves and water bottles are recommended.

Can I bring children to volunteer?

Yes, children under supervision are welcome, but activities are best suited for ages 12 and up.

When are the best times to volunteer?

Weekend mornings and early afternoons are ideal, but sign-up slots are flexible.

Is there an environmental impact fee?

No, the program is free, but donations support ongoing conservation efforts.

Will I get a certificate of participation?

Yes, volunteers receive a certificate recognizing their contribution.

Wildlife Nature & Conservation at Lost River Cave | Eco Tour

Lost River Cave, located in the heart of Kentucky, offers more than just an underground marvel—it's a vibrant ecosystem where natural beauty meets community-driven preservation. This unique cave system, known for its underground river and lush surrounding woodlands, has become a focal point for conservation efforts that actively protect and restore its habitats. Participating in the Litter Control project with the Lost River Cave Volunteers transforms a simple outdoor outing into a purposeful experience, allowing visitors to contribute directly to maintaining the cave’s pristine environment. As you walk the trails, you'll notice the influence of your efforts, helping to keep the wetlands and woodlands healthy and welcoming for native flora and fauna.

What makes Lost River Cave truly stand out is not just its geological wonder—featuring stunning limestone formations and an active underground river whose origins date back millions of years—but also its commitment to preserving this delicate environment. The volunteers' work helps ensure a sustainable future for local wildlife, including the rare salamanders and migratory birds that frequent the area. Beyond litter removal, the cave also serves as a hub for educational programs, connecting visitors of all ages with the importance of environmental stewardship.

The surrounding wilderness features inviting trails that lead to scenic overlooks and tranquil spots where wildlife thrives. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, this site offers a genuine connection to the landscape and the stories it holds. With efforts like these, Lost River Cave continues to serve as a jewel of Kentucky’s outdoor scene—a rewarding spot where community and conservation intersect, ensuring this natural treasure remains vibrant for generations to come.

About Lost River Cave

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.