Speleofest

05/29/2024

We are so glad to have had amazing vendors at our event this past weekend. You all weathered the storms with us!

05/29/2024

Big shout out to the amazing The Gauntlet team!

They are a volunteer team that sets up obstacle courses at Speleofest and other caving festivals to help cavers hone their skills.

We are so grateful for their service! We encourage and invite you to their Online “Tip Jar”.

Let’s support this amazing organization so they continue to do this incredible work for all of us adventurers!

https://gauntletsrt.org/donate

Metric (Alpine) Single Rope Technique Course

05/27/2024

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Speleofest Community! 🌟

As the rain-soaked weekend comes to a close, we want to extend a warm and heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who joined us for Speleofest 2024!

🦇 Despite the unexpected storms and muddy conditions, your unwavering enthusiasm, dedication, and adventurous spirit made this event truly unforgettable.To our courageous cavers who braved the elements and ventured into the depths of the earth – your passion for exploration inspires us all.

🗺️ To our volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth operation of every aspect of Speleofest – your hard work and dedication are deeply appreciated.

A special shoutout to our incredible vendors who brought their unique offerings to Speleofest, adding to the vibrant tapestry of our community.

🛍️ Your presence enriched the event and provided us with essential gear, knowledge, and inspiration for our next underground adventure.

And last but certainly not least, to each and every attendee who brought their energy, enthusiasm, and love for caving to Speleofest – thank you for being the heartbeat of our community.

💖 Your camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences made this weekend truly special.

Despite the rain and mud, we laughed, we learned, and we created cherished memories together.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making Speleofest 2024 an incredible success!

🌟 Until next time, stay adventurous, stay curious, and keep exploring the wonders of the underground world. 🦇

✨ 🌧️🌈

05/27/2024

On this Memorial Day, 🇺🇸 Remembering Our Heroes 🇺🇸

Let us take a moment to honor and remember the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.

Their sacrifice ensures our freedom and inspires us to cherish the values they fought to protect.

At Speleofest, we express our deepest gratitude to these heroes and their families.

05/24/2024

🎉 Welcome, Welcome, Cavers All! 🎉

The big day is finally here, and we're rolling out the welcome mat for all you wonderful cavers arriving at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave!

🦇 Whether you're coming from near or far, we're thrilled to have you join us for a weekend of adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

As you journey to our little slice of caving paradise, we wish you smooth travels, clear skies, and safe passages all the way.

🚗✈️ May your roads be clear of traffic jams and your flights be free of delays as you make your way to Speleofest.

So pack up your gear, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to dive headfirst into the excitement of Speleofest!

From cave trips to bonfire nights, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we come together to celebrate our shared love of exploration and discovery.

So let the festivities begin, and let's make this weekend one for the books!

Welcome to Speleofest, where the fun never ends and the memories last a lifetime!

We may be out of WiFi/ cell phone range to answer any questions here this weekend. Please reference this page as many posts before this one may have your answer. Also check out Speleofest.com for more information!

Happy Caving!

🌟 🦇🎉

05/23/2024

🎉 Speleofest Schedule of Fun!
🎉Get ready for a whirlwind weekend of adventure and excitement at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave 🦇✨

May 23rd-27th- Memorial Day Weekend

📅 Thursday
🕕 Registration open 6PM - 10PM

📅 Friday
🕗 Registration open 8AM - 11PM
🦇Saturday cave trip sign up -6PM
🎉 Howdy Party kicks off at 8PM - 11PM

📅 Saturday
🕖 Registration open 7AM - 9PM
🍳 Breakfast served 7AM - 10AM
🍽️ Banquet served 5PM-7PM
🗣️Guest Speaker 7:30 PM
🎉Door Prizes To Follow
🦇Cave Trips Posted 9:00 PM
🪢Tug-o-War 9:45 PM

📅 Sunday
🕖 Registration open 8AM - 12 PM
🍳Breakfast 7AM- 10AM
🧀 Wine & Cheese social by the cave at 7PM
🎶Band (The Cave Rats) 8PM

📅 Monday
🕕 Pack up and clean up from 6PM - 10PM
🚪 LoneStar Preserve closes at noon

Don't miss out on the fun—check out Cave Central or the Main Shelter for trip times and sign up! 🌟

Events are in Central Standard Time.

speleofest.com

05/23/2024

Did you miss out on pre-registration?
No worries, on-site registration is available starting 8am CST on Friday.

For just $50, adults can join the full weekend of camping and caving!

Kids aged 7-17 get in on the action for $30, and guess what?

Little ones aged 6 and under are completely FREE!

Not a fan of camping? No problemo! Grab our Day Pass for just $20 per person. Purchase your Day Pass at the Registration Tent upon arrival.

It's your golden ticket to a day filled with caving, exploration, and fun vibes! 🌴

📆 Mark your calendars for the main events lineup:
🔥 Friday: Welcome Party Bonfire! Get cozy and kick off the weekend in style.
🎉 Saturday: Prepare for a banquet, guest speaker, raffle prizes, and the epic tug o' war showdown! 💪🎁
🎸 Sunday: Get your groove on with the sensational Cave Rats band! It's a party you won't want to miss. 🎶

🚨Important Rules for Speleofest!!🚨

🚫No Fireworks, bombs, or explosions of any kind! We will call the police if a bomb is set off.

Camping:
⛺️ “Party camp” is on the hill near the Shelter House. Further away from the shelter house is family camp, where guests are expected to quiet down around 10pm.

🔥Fires are to be in designated areas or above ground only. Use the Fire Rings onsite.

🚗Please park near your own tent spot.
Please clean up your camp before leaving LSP.

Caving:
🪢Minimum required gear for caving trips is helmet, headlamp, boots, gloves and a pack to carry water and extra flashlight. Knee pads and gloves are highly recommended.

More advanced caving trips may require more advanced gear such as thermal clothing or vertical gear.

It is the trip leaders decision to deny anybody from attending who they believe is not prepared for the trip.

🚫Please cave sober. No drugs or alcohol before or during cave trips. No smoking in caves. Please drink responsibly while at LSP.

Please respect trip leaders and landowners. Stay with the group. Address any concerns or questions with your trip leader.

Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.

Pets:
Must pay the pet fee.
Please keep pets leashed at all times.
Situations where you and your pet will be asked to leave Speleofest without refund:
1. Dogs that bark too often, too loud and are annoying – they are heard throughout the camp.
2. Pets that aren’t controlled – this means they are able to run up to people and possibly get run over or hurt while at Speleofest.
3. Pets that are aggressive towards people or other pets.
**Please pick up after your pets**

05/22/2024

🏔️ The Exit: Navigating the Steep Gravel-hill Speleofest 🏔️

Now, here's the golden rule to ensure a smooth exit from the preserve. Before we get to the other tips, let's make the Clear Car Rule the number one priority:

1️⃣ Clear Car Rule: As you approach the steep hill, maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. Give them ample space to clear the hill before you start your ascent. This ensures a clear path and avoids any potential collisions or obstacles.

2️⃣ Take it slow: When ascending the hill, maintain a controlled speed. Gradually accelerate to keep your momentum steady and avoid spinning your wheels.

3️⃣ Traction is key: Ensure your vehicle's tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread. This will maximize traction on the gravel surface and improve your grip as you climb the hill.

4️⃣ Maintain momentum: Once you begin ascending, try to maintain a consistent speed without abrupt braking or accelerating. This will help you conquer the incline smoothly.

5️⃣ Choose the right gear: If you're driving a manual transmission vehicle, select a lower gear before tackling the hill. This will provide you with extra power and control.

6️⃣ Mind your brakes: As you descend the hill on your way out, gently apply your brakes to maintain a controlled speed. Avoid excessive braking, which can cause your wheels to lock up on loose gravel.

🌟 Remember, safety first! 🌟

Always prioritize safety while navigating the exit hill. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable, don't hesitate to seek assistance from fellow adventurers or event organizers.

Together, we'll ensure everyone has a fantastic time at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave!

🔦🌳 Let the thrill of exploration guide you as you delve into the mysteries of LoneStar Preserve! We can't wait to see your photos, hear your stories, and share in the joy of this amazing adventure.

Happy spelunking, and have an incredible Memorial Day weekend! 🌳🔦

05/22/2024

As you are setting up camp at Speleofest this year, please leave at least 15 feet of space between your tent and the road.

This makes room for parking and it also creates a safety barrier between your tent and moving vehicles.

05/21/2024

After an adventurous start, we are on the road to Speleofest! Hope to see you there!!

05/21/2024

They included our amazing festival. Check out all the incredible festivals our region has coming up this summer.

Kentucky's best festival guide with over 700 festival events in such cities as Lexington, Louisville, Bowling Green, Bardstown, Covington, Princeton, Middleboro, Grayson, and Paducah.

05/21/2024

🌟 Calling All New Cavers or new to Speleofest! 🌟

Welcome to SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave, where adventure awaits around every corner!

🦇 If you're new to our caving community, let us guide you through the ins and outs of our Cave Central system to ensure you make the most of your Speleofest experience.

🕕 Friday Evening at 6pm: Head over to the main shelter house for the grand unveiling of our cave trips for Saturday!

📋 These trips will be posted on clipboards across the back wall, each detailing the cave's description, difficulty level, and distance inside. Some caves may require a bit of travel, but fear not – carpooling is a common practice here!

🚗 Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot, as spaces are limited for each trip. If your desired cave is full, don't fret – you can always sign up as an alternate, and a spot may open up for you.

🌌 Saturday Night at 9pm: After a thrilling evening of speakers and raffles, swing by Cave Central once again to check out the newly posted cave trips for Sunday!

📝 This is your chance to plan your next underground adventure, so don't miss out on reserving your spot for an unforgettable journey into the depths of the earth.

Remember, the guidebook also contains valuable information about some of the caves, but not all – so be sure to stop by Cave Central for the full scoop on available trips.

📘Get ready to embark on an epic caving expedition at Speleofest – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!

🌟 🦇🗺️

05/20/2024

📵🌳📶 Attention, cavers and campers of Speleofest! Important Wi-Fi Message! 🌟🔌

🚫📱🌐 Brace yourselves, because during this epic Memorial Day weekend adventure, Wi-Fi signal on the campgrounds will be as elusive as Bigfoot! 🦍📶 But fret not, my friends, we've got you covered with a special tip. 😉

🗻📡 If you're in desperate need of a connection fix, head straight to the top of the hill near the gate. 📶🏔️ There, amidst the whispers of the wind, you may find a glimmer of a cell signal, like spotting a unicorn! 🦄✨ AT&T, cricket, Verizon signals may be found there.

📲💔 But here's the silver lining: Embrace this rare opportunity to disconnect from the virtual world and reconnect with the awe-inspiring wonders of nature! 🌿🌄 So, let your loved ones know that you'll be temporarily offline, soaking up the magic of Speleofest. 🌌🔌

🌟🔋 Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey, free from the shackles of constant notifications. Trust us, it'll be a digital detox like no other! 🙅‍♂️💻

🌳🌍 Remember, at Speleofest, we trade Wi-Fi bars for the stars above, and hashtags for the songs of nature. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime! 🌟🏞️

🎉📵 Get ready to disconnect to truly connect with nature this Memorial Day weekend at Speleofest! 🌳🏕️✨

05/20/2024

🌟 Get Ready to Shop 'til You Drop at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave! 🌟

The excitement is building, the anticipation is mounting, and the vendors are gearing up to dazzle you with their wares at Speleofest this week! 🎉

Vendors From May 24th to May 26th, get ready to embark on a shopping adventure like no other as you explore the amazing array of vendors waiting to delight you with their treasures.

Here's just a taste of what you can expect:

🪢On Rope 1: Your go-to supplier for caving gear, ropes, and equipment. Get ready to gear up for your next underground adventure!

🐸 Toxic Frog Cave Gear: Dive into a world of durable and specialized cave gear, crafted with care by the talented folks at Toxic Frog.

🦇 Louisville Grotto Swag: Show your grotto pride with a fantastic selection of Louisville Grotto merchandise, perfect for cavers of all ages.

📚 NSS Bookstore: Explore the fascinating world of caves and karst with a wide range of books, guides, and resources from the National Speleological Society.

💎 Ethel's Beads, Minerals, and Fossils: Unearth a treasure trove of beautiful beads, stunning minerals, and fascinating fossils to add a touch of natural beauty to your collection.

And that's just the beginning!

With vendors like Harlou Designs, Inner Mountain Outfitters, CaverDesign, and more, there's something for everyone at Speleofest.

But wait, there's more!

Don't forget to check out the fantastic lineup of events happening throughout the weekend, including cave trips, the Howdy Party, the Banquet, and more!

See you at Speleofest.com 2024, where adventure awaits around every corner! 🌟

🛍️🔦

05/20/2024

SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave
Please share with your communities.
Grab your gear and pack your bags,
Speleofest 2024 is calling your name!

Memorial Day Weekend, it's time to play,
At LoneStar Preserve in Bonnieville, Kentucky by The Louisville Grotto

From May 24th to 27th, the adventure unfolds,
Pre-registration is open, so don't be left out in the cold! (Early Arrival Option-Wed&Thurs)

Registration at the gate
$50 for adults, $30 for kids 7 to 17,
And little ones 6 and under are free
Day pass-no camping $20 a day

It's a camping and caving weekend like no other,
With live music, banquets, and raffle prizes to uncover!

On-site games and activities to keep you entertained, And opportunities for hiking and kayaking, no chance for boredom to remain!

Family-friendly fun for all to enjoy,
Presented by The Louisville Grotto, your hosts with the joy!

Speleofest 2024, where the adventures never stop! Www.speleofest.com

🌟

05/20/2024

The Weather as of Sunday going into Speleofest Week looks promising in Bonnieville, Kentucky at LoneStar Preserve

05/19/2024

New to Speleofest this year:

Guests will have access to an interactive map with local area attractions.

This will be a handy tool for those who are unable or unwilling to join the wild caving experience.

The map includes commercial caves, hand-picked hiking trails, kayaking routes, swimming locations, parks, commercial attractions, and more.

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1E4Wm6VAyd5PDCXc-6NX0OeYXRn3pitUe&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1nRi1wQcDHFRY7SxjqgLhzbV-lYv7zrTJnaCR892EfpikCNAJ3tWSh0lY_aem_AWVf-nv-iGOcrBA5JrIEnVHQ0e9n2xdLuuig3XW-c8LXUoF9Ipu6Imn-dF0LaJkUipGq39JGwFKOD2BPbuB23VG9&ll=37.5706939922525%2C-86.08401534999999&z=9

Speleofest Area Attractions

05/19/2024

Are you new to caving?!?

No sweat! You can get started with some basics. 🥾💪🏻

Bring basic safe caving gear.

This means a helmet, helmet-mounted light, two additional reliable backup lights, enough food and water for the length of trip, knee and elbow pads (if the cave demands them), a first-aid kit, supportive footwear, gloves, and clothing to stay warm.

Appropriate clothing usually means all synthetics, i.e. no cotton, though some cavers have survived warm, dry caves while wearing jeans.

Your helmet can be a bike helmet if that’s what you already have.

You can get knee pads in construction departments or Home Depot/Hardware Store.

Garden gloves can do the trick. Make sure to wear good sturdy shoes with traction (boots preferred)

If you would like to purchase some fancy new caving gear there will be a cave gear vendors on site.

05/19/2024

New item added to shared album

05/19/2024

Q&A: Camping at Speleofest

If this is your first time and you have questions, drop them down below, and we will answer them for you

05/19/2024

🌟 Adventure Spotlight: The Gauntlet Ropes Course! 🌟

Step right up, step right up! 🎪 Get ready to test your mettle and conquer The Gauntlet ropes course at Speleofest 2024! 🧗‍♂️

From May 24th to May 27th, the adventure awaits, and the fun never stops!Join us for a whirlwind of excitement as The Gauntlet brings its thrilling ropes course to Speleofest.

🌟 Swing, climb, and soar through the air like never before as you navigate challenging obstacles and reach new heights of adventure!

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time daredevil, The Gauntlet promises an experience you'll never forget.

And the best part?

There's no extra cost for the ropes course – it's all included in your Speleofest ticket!

🎟️ So gather your friends, grab your gear, and get ready to embark on the ultimate adventure. From beginners to experts, there's something for everyone at The Gauntlet!

But wait, there's more! Speleofest tickets are available at the door, so don't miss out on your chance to join the fun. Visit Speleofest.com for more information

🎉 Come one, come all, and let the adventure begin!

See you at Speleofest 2024, where every moment is a thrill ride!

🚀 🌟🌈

05/18/2024

Online Ticket Sales have closed. You can still register at the gate day of event.

18+ Adult
Admission Friday-Monday includes camping $50

7-17 Admission includes camping $30

6 and under
includes camping Free

Single Day pass
Must leave by 11pm $20

Early Arrival Add On-Thursday Arrival includes camping
$10

Registration open central time zone

Thursday 6PM - 10PM
Friday 8AM - 11PM
Saturday 7AM - 9PM
Sunday 8AM - 12PM

Find out more information at Speleofest.com

05/16/2024

🌟 Vendor Spotlight: ACCA and Hidden River Cave 🌟

Get ready to explore the depths of adventure with Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave!

🦇 Located at the heart of Memorial Day weekend festivities from May 24th to May 27th, their booth promises to be a hub of excitement and conservation.

The American Cave Conservation Association (ACCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of caves and karst landscapes worldwide.

🌍 With over 40 years of experience, ACCA has been at the forefront of cave conservation efforts, spearheading initiatives such as the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act and pioneering the development of cave gates to protect endangered bat populations.

But ACCA's impact extends beyond legislation and infrastructure. Through their educational programs and projects, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of cave ecosystems and inspire future generations of conservationists.

📚 From school children to professional land managers, ACCA's initiatives have reached over 400,000 individuals, fostering a deeper understanding of caves and karst environments.At their booth, you'll find a treasure trove of resources, from informative literature to exclusive discounts on admission to the American Cave Museum and Hidden River Cave.

📘 Plus, don't miss the opportunity to become a member and join ACCA in their mission to protect these fragile and irreplaceable natural wonders. Your membership not only supports vital conservation efforts but also grants you access to ACCA News updates and special discounts on events and publications.

So come join ACCA and Hidden River Cave at Speleofest 2024, where adventure meets conservation in the heart of the karst landscape!

Speleofest.com for more information
Tickets for event available at the door $50 for adult
🌟 🦇🌿

05/15/2024

Friday May 24th for Speleofest

KAYAK TRIP - Plant Your Grotto Flag
Join us for a fun paddling adventure to flag island.

This 4 mile paddle (2 miles each way) will take us to the tiny Flag Island, where we will all display our grotto flags and banners.

Flag Island is a small, 100 square foot island with a single flag pole guarded by a gorilla.

Bring your grotto banner and a camera for this relaxing, fun adventure. There is a $5 launch fee at the boat launch. 30 minute drive.

05/15/2024

This is First Creek Canyon waterfalls and arches extravaganza! There will be a led hike here for SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave on Friday afternoon. You will need long pants and hiking boots for this three-mile backwoods adventure in Mammoth Cave National Park.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/2jMkiJnPjdV6bj8Y/?mibextid=xfxF2i

05/14/2024

Map of LoneStar Preserve. Lots of places to camp when you come to SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave

05/14/2024

🌟 Hey cave enthusiasts and nature lovers, next week is SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave🌟

Memorial Day weekend, May 24-27th, is going to be epic!

But first, we need to settle a debate: are you team "Hammock Life" or team "Tent Sleeping"?

Let us know in the comments below! 🏕️🪵

Don't worry if you're a glamper, we've got some limited spaces for you too!

Online registration is closed but You can still get tickets at the door.

To find out more and join in on the fun, head over to speleofest.com now! 🎉

05/14/2024

🚿✨ Get ready to wash away the day's adventures at SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave! 🌟

With rustic showers boasting warmish water and handy spray stations for freshening up your cave-clad clothes, you'll be feeling squeaky clean in no time!

And fear not, for our trusty port-a-pots are on standby, ensuring your restroom needs are met with ease.

🎉 Can you believe it?

Speleofest is just around the corner, happening next week!

🗓️ Don't miss out on the excitement and camaraderie awaiting you at Lone Star Preserve in Bonnieville, KY, from May 24th to May 27th.

It's a weekend filled with caving escapades, live music, delectable food, and so much more!👉 Remember, it's not just about the adventure; it's about the memories you'll create along the way.

So pack your sense of wonder and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey at Speleofest 2024!

If you missed Pre-Registration you still can pay at the door! Can’t wait to see everyone next week!

🌄 🌿🌞

05/11/2024

🚶‍♂️ Step into the whimsical world of SPELEOFEST 2024- Oh, Places You’ll Cave, where hiking trails await your eager feet!

🌲 Mark your calendars for Memorial Day Weekend, May 24th-27th, and journey to LoneStar Preserve in Bonnieville, Kentucky, for a hiking extravaganza like no other!

🗺️ Explore the wonders of nature with trails near Mammoth Cave National Park, Munfordville, and Elizabethtown. Printed maps are your trusty guide for self-led adventures, leading you on paths unseen and tales untold.

🎟️ While online Pre-Registration may have closed its doors, fret not, dear adventurer! Tickets are yours for the taking on the day of the event.

So slip on your hiking boots and prepare for a Seussian escapade at Speleofest!

🚶‍♀️🌿

05/30/2023

We want to send a huge shoutout to The Gauntlet for all of the work they did at Speleofest. The course was amazing and we enjoyed it immensely. If you enjoyed The Gauntlet and want to support everything they do, please consider donating to their fundraiser.

The Gauntlet is a SRT ropes course that provides a fun and challenging environmen… Kevin Mulligan needs your support for The Gauntlet SRT Course Startup Fund