Science Lesson #2: Geology and Two Caves in KY

Photo by Krenda

I find when I combine reading a book or watching a movie and then visiting the site, I learn even more.  You can set up trips to make this experience happen for your kids. 

This article covers two caves in Kentucky and their connection to literature.

1.  Mammoth Cave National Park
The National Seleogoical Society lists cave books, including one focused on Mammoth Cave, Mammoth Cave National Park by Ruth Radlauer.  They also list Amazing Bats by Frank Greenaway and Cave Life (Look Closer) by Christiane Gunzi. 

Mammoth Cave fits it's name; it's mammoth with over 365 miles mapped. Took the tour as a child and as an adult and enjoyed it.
Tips
There's multiple tour options.  Read online to select the right one for you and book early.  Tours fill up!

2.  Cave Springs Cavern
If you want to combine nature and literature with your kids, consider staying 6 miles away at Oak Hill Farm and Cabins in Smith Grove, KY.  While the Mammoth Cave is impressive, I found the Cave Springs Cavern on Oak Hills Farm to be even more interesting and mysterious.  Formerly used as a rare Native American ceremonial site, "the family" radio carbon dated 30 BC.  The owner and protector, Bill J Marohonic, gave us a personal tour included in our stay.

If you plan ahead, have your children read one of his books:  Dream Catcher How We Saved A Kentucky Time Capsule or My Conversion from a Humanist to a Believer.  You can also look up the PBS 9 minute video - that's how I learned about the unique site.

Bill will also tell you about his love for nature and animals.  He rescues horses and you can visit them.  His 17 acre estate includes a nature preserve.  At night, stay up to watch the bats circle under the moon light.

Tips
Book the bed & breakfast stay, tour no charge. If you have children and have a choice, choose the older log cabin, nicer than the new cabin.  Bill also rents out rooms in his 1857 antebellum home.