Underground Adventures in the Show Me State

More than 90 state parks and historic sites speckle the Show Me State, all with free admission to visitors wanting to explore the natural world throughout Missouri. From swimming to hiking and fishing to exploring, these state parks, which encompass a collective 160,000 acres across the state, encompass some truly stunning landscape you have to see to believe. Leave it to the Show Me State to show off some breathtaking spaces.

In addition to stunning state parks with lots of space to roam, Missouri also has quite a few caverns visitors can explore. These caverns take guests underground to explore the natural world below the Earth’s surface. Embark on a guided tour or simply enjoy time at the spaces surrounding these unique formations underneath the ground- they are well worth the time you spend exploring. With more than 7,500 recorded caves throughout the state, the question is which one will you visit first?

Unique caverns at Missouri State Parks you don’t want to miss

• Onondaga Cave State Park- Filled with geological wonders, Onondaga Cave is a National Natural Landmark for good reason. Onondaga Cave has a fascinating history as well as a river running through it, and guests can tour the cave on hour-long excursions with a tour guide. Located southwest of St. Louis, this is one spot you don’t want to miss nestled in a beautiful state park offering up loads of natural fun for everyone.
• Meramec State Park- Home to Fisher Cave, Meramec State Park, located near Onondaga State Park, is a beautiful spot along the Meramec River with more than 13 miles of hiking trails. Fisher Cave is a favorite amongst visitors who want to explore and engage with the world around them. Don’t skip the cave tour, where guests use hand-held lights to lead the way. 
• Stark Caverns State Park- Experience the only caves in the United States with an escape room. The glowing blacklight tour is also a favorite with visitors hoping for an experience they can’t find elsewhere. Located near Lake of the Ozarks, Stark Caverns and the surrounding state park is a destination for those who want to combine natural beauty with man-made adventure and find a one-of-a-kind adventure they won’t get anywhere else. 
• Fantastic Caverns- While not located in a state park, Fantastic Caverns makes this list because it is one you tour by vehicle, making it perfect for anyone who isn’t able to walk to explore the natural beauty of Missouri’s caves. Visitors travel down a bath carved by an ancient river on their hour-long tour. Located near Springfield, Fantastic Cavern is a great space the whole family can enjoy. 

Missouri State Parks

There is no state quite like Missouri, which is sometimes called The Cave State because it is home to so many underground spaces. Visitors to the Show Me State have seemingly endless opportunities to plan an adventure that fits their lifestyle and family. Head to the Missouri State Parks website for more information and to start planning your Missouri outdoor and underground adventures today.