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Carter Caves State Resort Park Opens Laurel and Horn Hollow Caves

Kentucky State Parks

Two caves at Carter Caves State Resort Park have reopened for self-guided tours.

Laurel and Horn Hollow caves were closed in 2009 due to the spread of white-nose syndrome among bat populations. White-nose syndrome was found at Carter Caves in 2013.

There was interest in reopening Laurel and Horn Hollow caves and the emphasis now is focused on limiting the spread of the disease, which does not affect humans.

Guests who want to explore Laurel and Horn Hollow Caves are required to get a permit at the park’s welcome center before entering. The permit is free.

The caves are open from 9 a.m. until 90 minutes before the welcome center closes daily. Guests should call ahead to ask about closing times and to check on weather conditions, which may limit access to the caves.

Laurel Cave in only open for access Memorial Day thru Labor Day because it’s a bat habitat, while Horn Hollow is available for permits year round. For additional information, visit parks.ky.gov or call the park at 606-286-4411.

Carter Caves State Resort Park is located at 344 Caveland Drive in Olive Hill. The park has a lodge with a restaurant, cottages and campground. Besides cave tours, activities include hiking, boating and fishing.

The park is located off Interstate 64 at Exit 161. Take U.S. 60 east. Go approximately 2 miles and turn left on KY 182 north. The park entrance is 3 miles from the left turn onto KY 182 north.

The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 49 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges, more than any other state.

For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our website at: http://www.parks.ky.gov

(story provided by Kentucky Tourism)

Paul Hitchcock earned his Masters in Communications from Morehead State University and Bachelors in Radio-TV/Psychology from Georgetown College. A veteran broadcaster for more than 40 years and an avid fan of blues, jazz and American roots music. Hitchcock has been with WMKY since 1986 and was named General Manager in 2003. He currently hosts "Muddy Bottom Blues" (Fri., 8pm-9pm), "Nothin' But The Blues" (Sat., 8pm-12am), "Sunday Night Jazz Showcase" and "Live From The Jazz Lounge" (Sun., 8pm-9pm) and "The Golden Age of Radio" (Sun., 2pm-3pm). He also serves as producer for "A Time For Tales" and "The Reader's Notebook."
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