Blanchard Springs Caverns: still alive and growing

It took eons of time for Nature to form Blanchard Springs Caverns, deep within the majestic Ozark National Forest. In fact, Nature is still at work on this “living cave.”  Lucky for you it doesn’t take eons to get here and explore this wondrous site through tours led by the U.S. Forest Service.

Visitors of all ages are amazed by the natural spring pouring in great sheets from the side of the mountain to form Mirror Lake. You can fish for rainbow trout, and you can take a lovely stroll to the falls and watch water leaving the caverns. It’s all here for the curious outdoors enthusiast: hiking trails, abundant wildlife, camping and picnicking spots, swimming holes, educational programs and a fully stocked gift shop.

Three tours are available:

Dripstone Trail:
Enjoy practically every type of calcite formation found in limestone caves. Visit the Cathedral Room, which is the size of three football fields, and the Coral Room, where pure calcite, or calcium carbonate, makes up limestone.

Discovery Trail:
Navigate the routes of the early explorers, pass through their campsites and perhaps see some of the cavern's many interesting creatures. Before you leave, discover the colorful Ghost Room and the Giant Flowstone, one of the largest flowstones on earth.

Wild Cave Tour:
Explore undeveloped sections of the cavern’s middle level. Climb steep slopes, crawl on your hands and knees, pass under low ceilings and travel through red clay.. End your tour at the Titans, a group of tall spectacular columns you’ll have to see to believe.

Learn more . . .
Get directions, accessibility and educational information, tips for planning your visit, rates and many more details about Blanchard Springs Caverns at the U.S. Forest Service’s website.

Experience Blanchard Springs Caverns for a day you’ll never forget!