5 Best Missouri Caves and Caverns To Visit In 2024
Did you know Missouri is affectionately nicknamed the “Cave State”? According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, over 7,500 recorded caves and caverns lie hidden beneath its rolling hills and lush forests. But the best part? Cedar Grove Cabin sits right at the gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring subterranean wonders in the country, all within a convenient day trip’s distance!
In 2024, why not trade the sunshine for stalactites and shadows, venturing down into a world sculpted by time and water? Prepare to be awestruck by towering rock formations, shimmering crystal pools, and the haunting beauty of the unseen. And with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 60 degrees in the caves every day, you can take a tour of them year-round. Let’s take a look at 5 of the best Missouri caves you can easily conquer from the cozy comfort of Cedar Grove Cabin, your perfect basecamp for cave-crawling expeditions in the Ozarks!
Choosing Your Best Missouri Cave Adventure
With so many caves in Missouri, choosing your perfect subterranean adventure can feel daunting. Fear not, we’ve got you covered with 5 of the best caves in Missouri according to Trip Advisor.
Onondaga Cave State Park
Just a thirteen minute drive from Cedar Grove Cabin to Leasburg Missouri lies Onondaga Cave State Park. Here you can take a guided tour through one of Missouri’s most accessible and spellbinding caverns. Descent into the cool, 57-degree air and trace the path of a gentle river alongside your knowledgeable guide. Marvel at shimmering “Rock of Ages” formations and see the towering “King’s Canopy”. This family-friendly adventure on paved walkways is perfect for all ages.
Fisher Cave
About fifteen minutes from Bourbon Missouri you’ll find Fisher Cave at Meramec State Park located in nearby Sullivan. This wild cave, accessed only by guided tours, invites you to delve deeper into the Ozark underworld. Navigate low passages sculpted by water and marvel at ancient bear claw marks etched into the limestone walls. Witness shimmering chandeliers of cave crystals and stand in awe of “Grand Cathedral”. Prepare for an adventure that’s both physically and mentally rewarding, and one that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the hidden mysteries beneath the Ozarks.
Meramec Caverns
Just a stone’s throw from Cedar Grove Cabin in Sullivan Missouri you’ll find Meramec Caverns. This “Greatest Show Under Earth” promises more that just stalactites and shadows. Witness “Wine Table”, a rock formation unlike any other, formed by ancient waters. Take a journey through the “Ballroom”, where echoes of laughter from grand dances still whisper in the air. Gaze upon the breathtaking Theatre Room Light Show, a modern marvel illuminating the cavern’s natural beauty.
Meramec Caverns also offers a zip line, a caveman climbing wall, float trips, riverboat tours, a restaurant, and the kids can “pan for gold”.
Round Spring
A little bit further south in Eminence Missouri you’ll find Round Spring Cave. This cave tour is moderately strenuous and they advise to wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket. They are open for guided lantern tours Memorial Day – Labor Day and features over a mile of passageways filled with impressive formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone.
Stark Caverns
Finally we have Stark Caverns. Although this one is a bit further from the cabin located near Lake of the Ozarks, it’s a hidden gem offering two distinct adventures for cave dwellers of all ages and is definitely worth the two hour drive.
For families and casual explorers, embark on the enchanting Regular Daily Tour, marveling at glistening “Moonshiner’s Dam” and feeling the cool mist of the Wishing Well. Crave a touch of mystery? The Black Light Tour takes you beyond the usual path, revealing fluorescent minerals glowing like hidden treasures under the special lights. Stark Caverns, with its spacious hallways, wheelchair accessibility, and unique experiences, awaits to become a highlight of your day. And they recently added an Escape Room In the Cavern which allows you to find clues, solve puzzles and beat the clock in a moonshine-themed escape room played inside the cave.
It’s hard to find a complete Missouri Caves Map because there are just so many, but here’s a quick map showing the locations of the five Missouri caves and caverns mentioned in this article.
Tips For a Fun and Safe Missouri Cave Adventure
While the best Missouri cave tours offer a plethora of wonder, venturing underground requires respecting both the delicate cave environment and your own safety. Here are some essential cave etiquette and safety tips for your next Ozark underground adventure.
Be a Light-Footed Guest
Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the cave and protect delicate formations. Leave no trace by packing out all of your trash and avoiding any actions that could damage the sensitive ecosystem. Remember, caves are living systems, teeming with microscopic organisms that thrive in the constant darkness and moisture.
Missouri’s caves and caverns offer a unique window into the Earth’s geological history and an awe-inspiring testament to the slow, patient sculpting power of water. Exploring these subterranean worlds reveals a tapestry of formations from delicate cave straws to towering columns, each one a captivating record of millennia past. Beyond the visual spectacle, caves boast diverse ecosystems and hold archaeological significance, serving as shelters for early human populations.
Dress For the Adventure
Caves maintain a steady temperature around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack layers to adjust to the cool air. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction are crucial to navigate uneven surfaces and slippery spots. Be mindful of low ceilings and tripping hazards, and don’t climb or touch formations. Wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty, as caves can be dusty and damp.
Respect the Natural Silence
Let the whispers of dripping water and the occasional bat squeak create the cave’s soundtrack. Avoid loud noises that could disturb cave life or other explorers. If you’re given a flashlight for your tour, use them responsibly, directing light at your feet and only occasionally illuminating rock formations to avoid unsettling the delicate balance.
While the thrill of venturing into the unknown undoubtedly draws visitors, a responsible approach is crucial. By adhering to cave etiquette and safety guidelines, we can ensure these fragile environments remain pristine for future generations. Ultimately, Missouri’s caves offer a valuable opportunity to delve into the earth’s hidden wonders, fostering a deeper appreciation for both the geological history and the delicate ecosystems they encompass.
What Might You See Underground in Missouri Caves
Every cave is a time capsule, preserving echoes of the past. There are many formations you may see in these underground caves and caverns.
Calcite
Calcite, the main ingredient in most cave formations, is a widely occurring mineral composed of calcium carbonate. In caves, it’s deposited by dripping water, gradually building stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and other breathtaking formations over vast stretches of time.
Stalagmites
Stalagmites are rock formations found on the floors of caves. They form when mineral-rich water drips from stalactites on the cave ceiling and deposits minerals at the point of impact. Over time, these deposits build up, creating the characteristic mound-shaped or columnar form of a stalagmite.
Stalactites
Stalactites are cone-shaped rock formations that hang from the ceilings of caves. They form when mineral-rich water drips from the ceiling and gradually deposits minerals, building the stalactite down layer by layer.
Columns
Cave columns arise when stalactites and stalagmites merge, their combined mineral deposits creating a pillar spanning from ceiling to floor. These imposing formations showcase the enduring interplay between water and stone within the cave environment.
Cave Straws
Resembling drinking straws, these slender and hollow, cave straws are delicate tubes often found hanging like fringe from cave ceilings. Formed by water slowly seeping through cracks and depositing minerals, they grow millimeters a year, adding to the cave’s intricate tapestry.
Flowstone
Flowstone, a common sight in caves, resembles thin sheets of mineral drapery adorning walls and floors. This formation arises when mineral-rich water flows across surfaces, leaving behind layers of calcium carbonate deposits over time. These layers build upon each other, creating smooth, sometimes rippled formations that add to the cave’s visual complexity.
Ready For Your Next Missouri Cave Adventure?
After a day spent touring the underground world of Missouri’s caves, your body will crave a peaceful retreat. Cedar Grove Cabin, located on 10 serene acres, offers the perfect haven to unwind and recharge. Imagine yourself sinking into a comfortable couch by a crackling fireplace, reminiscing about the day’s discoveries with a warm beverage in hand. The secluded porch invites you to soak in the tranquility of the nature, perhaps reliving the echoes of the cave under a blanket of stars.
Cedar Grove Cabin serves as more than just a comfortable resting place; it’s your launchpad for further exploration. Its convenient location, close to numerous caves and outdoor gems, makes it an ideal basecamp for your Ozark adventure. Wake up to the birdsong and plan your next subterranean expedition, knowing that warmth and comfort await your return. Whether you’re drawn to exhilarating spelunking or a leisurely stroll through illuminated caverns, Cedar Grove Cabin stands ready to welcome your spirit of discovery.
So, let Cedar Grove Cabin be your sanctuary after your journey into the Earth’s secrets. Let it be the place where stories are shared by the fireplace, where laughter floats on the porch breeze, and where memories of your cave adventures are etched in your mind. Book your stay today and unlock the full potential of your Missouri escapade: a harmonious blend of exciting subterranean exploration and restorative moments of peace and reflection.
