For Kids

NPS Photo

 

Wind Cave is a great place for kids and families to explore. Ranger-led cave tours, Discovery talks on the front lawn, and campfire programs in the campground are just a few of the kid-friendly programs available. The Touch Table at the visitor center has hides, horns, and other interesting objects to touch and feel.

 

Programs

Cave Tours

Which tour is best for your family? Generally speaking, kids 3 and under will likely need to be carried some or all of the way for all tours. (Note: Backpack carriers are not allowed in the cave.)

The pace and distance of the Natural Entrance Tour works well even for young children. Most older kids (6 and up) have no problem with the Fairgrounds Tour, the most strenuous of the three regular walking tours. Ask a ranger for more information.

Do age restrictions apply? The minimum age for the Candlelight Tour is 8 years old. Minimum age for the Wild Cave Tour is 16 years old and requires signed parental permission. There are no age restrictions for the Garden of Eden, Natural Entrance, or Fairgrounds tours.

Adventures in Nature

This free program geared for children ages 3-12 is offered select Tuesdays January into April. Children learn to explore the natural world with games, crafts, and a hike.

 

Activities

Due to current social distancing protocols, we recommend mailing completed Wind Cave junior ranger activity books to the park's address listed at the bottom of the page. Activity books will be mailed back to you with junior ranger badges.

Junior Ranger
Become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger. The program is free and booklets are available in the bookstore at the visitor center.