Stunning Caves in Florida You Have to See

Did you know that Tennessee has the most caves in the United States? You may have also heard that Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky has the longest cave system in the world. But these two southern states aren’t the only ones with underground wonders; Florida also has its own unique caves.

Divers, snorkelers, and spelunkers love to explore these secret worlds. Let’s take a look at five Florida caves that combine intrigue, beauty, and history.

Let’s dive in!

What is Florida known for?

When you think of Florida, you probably don’t think of caves. Instead, you picture white sandy beaches, alligators swimming in the Everglades or rockets taking off on the Space Coast.

Or maybe you think of oranges, princesses or Latin American culture. Whether you’re vacationing in the Keys or watching a game in Jacksonville, the Sunshine State seems to offer something for everyone.

Are there caves in Florida?

While your first thought may not be to explore caves in Florida, there are a handful of underground worlds worth visiting on your next road trip. There may not be hundreds of miles of caves like there are beaches, but you will discover a few impressive caves that will thrill and awe you.

Is it safe to visit caves?

Before we continue, we should mention that it is never safe to venture into a cave without a guide unless you are an experienced spelunker. The U.S. Forest Service offers a few tips to keep you safe while exploring caves.

First, never go alone. It’s best to have at least four people with you so that if something happens, two people can get help while two people stay in the cave.

Just like you tell someone where you are hiking and when you are coming back, you should do the same when caving. You should also take water and snacks with you. Wear appropriate footwear, layers, and a hard hat. Finally, always carry a first aid kit and at least three sources of light.

Caves that are tourist attractions are much more frequently monitored than remote caves. They are relatively safe, even if there are risks involved in traveling underground. But that’s the case with any outdoor recreational activity, from hiking to ATV riding to paddling.

The 5 best caves in Florida you should visit

The next time you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State, check out how far you are from these five Florida caves. If you’re visiting the Panhandle, Morrison Springs Park and Florida Caverns State Park are about an hour apart.

If you’re in Gainesville to watch a Florida Gators football game, Warren’s Cave is only about 20 minutes northwest of campus. Let’s take a closer look at five caves in Florida that you should definitely visit.

1. Morrison Springs Park

Morrison Springs is one of the most popular dive sites in the state and is located in the Florida Panhandle near Ponce de Leon. There are piers overlooking the springs, a boat ramp, and a diving dock. The park is 161 acres in size and includes a 250-foot diameter spring pool where swimmers can enjoy the warm water.

This pool is about 300 feet deep, but underground caves invite divers to explore this depth. Even if you don’t dive, Morrison Springs Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the day.

2. Florida Caverns State Park

Cave tours at Florida Caverns State Park are offered daily in the summer and Thursday through Monday in the off-season. Tickets for children ages 3 to 12 cost $8, and for adults $15.

During the tour, guests walk through narrow passageways and under low ceilings up to 350 feet underground. Visitors see all the typical cave formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and river stones.

Don’t forget: One of the most famous caves is Carlsbad Caverns. But what’s so special about it? Let’s dive in and find out!

3. Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park

Cave divers travel year after year to the 33,000-foot underwater passages of Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. This park requires divers to have specialized training in cave diving to ensure safety.

Solo diving is not permitted. Named caves include the Crypt, where the skeletal remains of a turtle were found, and the Breakdown Room, where rocks have broken off the ceiling. As at Morrison Springs Park, visitors who do not wish to dive can enjoy the warm waters of the springs.

4 Warren’s Cave

Warren’s Cave is the longest dry cave in Florida with more than four miles of passages. It is an unimproved cave with no railings, walkways or lighting. It is not for spelunkers.

Warren’s Cave is located in the Warren Cave Nature Preserve north of Gainesville and requires cavers to know how to single-rope and deal with tight bottlenecks. The cave is closed off, but visitors are allowed.

5th Cave of the Devil

Finally, Devil’s Den offers four underwater passages. This privately owned spring is open daily and allows snorkeling and diving. Swimming is not permitted. Children must be at least six years old to snorkel, they do not need certification.

All snorkelers have access to the spring for 90 minutes and must make a reservation. Divers, on the other hand, must have an Open Water license and a dive buddy. No reservation is required for diving.

Read more: Think you could survive a dip in Devil’s Den Spring? Learn more about why Devil’s Den Spring should be on your Florida itinerary!

Florida isn’t just the Sunshine State – explore its underground treasures

These five Florida caves are worth adding to your itinerary. Although some of the caves require special certifications or caving experience, most of these caves are located near other attractions where you can spend a full day in the great outdoors.

Go swimming at Morrison Springs Park or rent a canoe at Florida Caverns State Park. Take the family on a snorkeling adventure at Devil’s Den or a walk on the nature trail at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park.

Will you be visiting any of these Florida caves on your next trip to the Sunshine State?