Why Missouri is the “Cave State”

There are over 7,500 caves within Missouri, according to the Department of Natural Resources, giving us the moniker of “the Cave State.” This number makes Missouri one of the most cave-rich states in the United States. An estimated 6,000 of these have been explored, although many of these are on private property or too small to be accessible. But many of these underground wonders are big enough, and safe enough, for us to enjoy.

One key reason for the abundance of caves in many parts of the state is what is known as “karst” topography. Karst topography is a landscape characterized by springs, sinkholes, underground streams, and, most notably, caves. It developed this way because Missouri’s geology is rich in limestone, which is highly susceptible to erosion by water, leading to the formation of caves and other karst features. Many of these caves are not only scientifically significant but also offer opportunities for recreation, education, and exploration.

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Bridal Cave

Bridal Cave got its name thanks to the legend of the marriage of a Native American couple inside the cave many centuries ago inside the mammoth cave. In fact, many weddings still take place
at the cave near the Lake of the Ozarks.

Bridal Cave
Camdenton
573-346-2676
www.bridalcave.com

Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns, near Stanton, has been a shelter for many people over the years, including Native Americans, French Colonial miners, and even Jesse James. It is one of the world’s largest cave formations and has a unique feature known as the Stage Curtain. There also is an underground river, along with a “Wine Table” and a “seven-story mansion.”

Meramec Caverns
Sullivan
573-468-2283
www.americascave.com

Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns near Springfield is more than just a cave: it’s actually a system of caves so large that you need to take a tram tour to see it all. This cave network even has been used for concert venues, and was a speakeasy back during Prohibition.

Fantastic Caverns
Springfield
417-833-2010
www.fantasticcaverns.com

Mark Twain Cave

Mark Twain Cave is the original cave attraction in Missouri, as it was made famous through the writings of the legendary author. Located just outside of Hannibal, the cave takes about 60 minutes to tour and gives you some insight into Twain’s life. There is even a separate tour of Cameron Cave, which requires lanterns
and takes you back in time to experience what cave exploration was like when Cameron first was discovered in the early 1900s.

Mark Twain Cave
Hannibal
573-221-1656
www.marktwaincave.com

Marvel Cave

Marvel Cave actually is part of Silver Dollar City, but is an attraction unto itself, and is actually my favorite of all the ones I have explored. It is one of the largest caves in the world, and has what is believed to be the largest cave entrance in the country. The entrance, which is known as the Cathedral Room, is more than 205 feet high, 225 feet wide, and 411 feet long. To give you an idea of how big that is, as the tour guide will tell you, they once inflated several hot air balloons inside that room. There are some tight squeezes along the path as you descend into one of the deepest caves in Missouri, but it is well worth the visit the next time you are in Branson.

Marvel Cave
Branson
417-336-7100
facebook.com/MarvelCaveBranson

Onondaga Cave

The Onondaga Cave is actually part of Onondaga Cave State Park which is about 5 miles from Leasburg along the Meramec River. This is a cool option if you want to explore a cave while also making a weekend camping and float trip out of your expedition.

Onondaga Cave State Park
Leasburg
314-245-6576
www.mostateparks.com

And that is why Missouri is the Cave State!