Florida Caverns State Park

Home of Florida’s only show cave, Florida Caverns State Park is a must-see for any visitor with an interest in geology and botany. A bevy of natural caverns occur in this karst escarpment along the Chipola River basin west of Tallahassee, but the namesake was developed by a Civilian Conservation Corps crew during the 1930s and opened in 1942. Ranger-led tours of the caverns (offered every day except Tuesday, Wednesday, and during periods when the caverns flood) provide a fascinating exploration of the underside of Florida’s limestone bedrock. Live formations such as rimstone pools, soda straws, cave bacon and walls of flowstone accompany ...

Home of Florida’s only show cave, Florida Caverns State Park is a must-see for any visitor with an interest in geology and botany. A bevy of natural caverns occur in this karst escarpment along the Chipola River basin west of Tallahassee, but the namesake was developed by a Civilian Conservation Corps crew during the 1930s and opened in 1942. Ranger-led tours of the caverns (offered every day except Tuesday, Wednesday, and during periods when the caverns flood) provide a fascinating exploration of the underside of Florida’s limestone bedrock. Live formations such as rimstone pools, soda straws, cave bacon and walls of flowstone accompany more traditional stalactites and stalagmites as visitors burrow deeply into the earth to experience these geologic wonders. Nature trails surrounding the show cave show off the botanical bounty of the region, with massive oak and pine trees, colorful phlox, trillium, and columbine, all found along rugged scrambles along the edge of the river’s floodplain. One of the trails even makes a dash through Tunnel Cave. The campground provides a launch point for activities along the Upper Chipola River, including horseback riding, fishing, and kayaking along the river.

About the Expert

Sandra Friend has written 12 books about Florida, including the Explorer's Guide (Countryman Press) series to Florida.