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Illinois Caverns State Natural Area
Illinois Caverns State Natural Area in southwestern Illinois offers a unique experience for visitors interested in cave exploration and speleology, the scientific study of caves. Operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Illinois Caverns in Monroe County comprises more than five miles of subterranean passageways and awe-inspiring flowstone formations.
Open April through October, the caverns are unimproved, and a permit is required to enter. Visitors must agree to a series of safety requirements: (1) Visitors must have at least four people in their group; no solo exploration is allowed. Groups of 25 or more must contact the site to register in advance. (2) Protective clothing and footwear, including hard hats and treaded, close-toed shoes, are required. (3) Each visitor must bring at least three forms of light; a headlamp and two flashlights are common choices. Expect to get wet and muddy!
Current hours for the site are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, mid-April through late October. In the event of unsafe caving conditions, entry will be closed by site staff.
