Cool off by descending deep into the Earth.
In case you aren't a spelunker, we'll remind you that caves are far more than just holes in the ground. Some of them are quite extraordinary, but only a minor portion of them have actually been explored and documented. Check out the cool recesses of nature and test your spelunker skills in these known Texas tunnels. PSA: This should go without saying, but make sure you follow all recommended safety measures when exploring caves!
Contributed by Rebecca West
Photo credit: Natural Bridges
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd.
Say howdy to the largest natural cavern system in Texas, y'all! This once unknown hole in the rock was discovered by local UT students back in 1960. Today, the caverns are still very active and considered living, forming and changing as the rainwater runs through the limestone. For the ultimate cave experience, look into The Hidden Wonders Tour and rough your way through the towering stone monuments and the waves of colorful cave ribbons, just like the first founding group did. Ready for adventure?
photo credit: Longhorn cavern State Park
6211 Park Rd 4 S
This cave has a colorful history. Unlike other Texas caves, Longhorn was created by rivers surging through cracks and holes millions of years ago. Left behind are unusual rock formations, domed ceilings, sinkholes and sparkling crystals that draw tourists in high and low. The cave itself was used for various purposes by Native Americans, Confederate soldiers, and outlaws throughout history. Fun fact, during the Prohibition, Longhorn Cavern was run as a speakeasy by the locals.
photo credit: Inner Space Cavern
4200 S. I-35 Frontage Rd.
First discovered by a Texas Highway drilling team surveying the area, this intergalactic cave is one of the best-preserved caves in Texas and one of the few places where prehistoric remains are found. While a number of miles of cave tunnels have been explored, blocked passages prevent Texans from seeing everything Inner Space has to offer. The Hidden Passages Tour gives visitors access to a newly opened section of the cave on an undeveloped trail. But, if a tour doesn't interest you or your guest, check out the playground, mining area, or display of fossils found right in that very cave.
photo credit: Bat Conservation International
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd
Twenty million Mexican free-tailed bats claimed this cave. Access is strictly controlled to protect Bracken’s rare habitat and its critters, but Bat Conservation International organizes evening guided tours to to observe the bats as they take flight. Skip the South Congress Bridge, and head to Bracken for the ultimate bat viewing experience. Advance registration is required. See all the details here.
photo credit: Texas Hill Country
325 Kreutzberg Rd.
Head to Boerne to tour six major rooms in 66-degree comfort in this cave. The easy, low-key walks depart throughout the day and are about an hour long. The cave originally got its name from a statewide contest, where one little Texan claimed the cave too beautiful for a name. And despite a few efforts to change it, the name stuck. Reservations are suggested. Check their calendar for cool events like musical performances IN THE CAVE!
Did we miss a Texas cave?
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