Catch a Cave

• Missouri caving for your crowd

Are you aware Missouri has more than 7,300 caves? Known as the “Cave State,” groups have been coming to Missouri to tour the enchanting worlds below the surface of our earth for years. There are more than a dozen which provide seasonal tours, here are just a few to consider.

Onondaga Cave State Park, near Leasburg, offers two amazing cave tours, Onondaga Cave and Cathedral Cave. The Onondaga Cave tour consists of less than a mile walk, over an hour and fifteen minutes, along a lighted, paved walkway while learning about the interesting history of the cave. 

For those looking for a bit more exertion and excitement, the Cathedral Cave tour lasts approximately 2 hours with a third-mile hike up Deer Run Trail to the entrance of the cave. Then groups of up to 30, tour the cave by lantern and experience the rush early explorers felt when finding the cave.

Bridal Cave, near Camdenton, is a year-round attraction in the Lake of the Ozark areas due to the cave remaining a constant 60º inside regardless the weather. One-hour guided tours leave every 15 minutes, and if you would like a special Lantern Tour can always be scheduled for your group during the summer months.

Fantastic Caverns, just north of Springfield, is a Ride-Thru Cave. That’s right, the cave tour is completely ride-thru on Jeep-drawn trams. During the 55-minute all-riding cave tour, trams drive along a one-mile tour route providing guests an up-close look at the formations. The trams can accommodate wheelchairs and is convenient for everyone, regardless of age.

No matter which cave you choose in Missouri, the experience will delight your group.