Florida Caverns State Park

Marianna, Florida: When most people think of Florida, they immediately think of flat beaches as far as the eye can see. While that image is true for much of the state, there is a hidden gem in the panhandle that features elevation and even a cavern to explore. Located just outside of Marianna, the Florida Caverns State Park features the only dry cavern in the State of Florida.

While the geological features of the park date back to over 38 million years ago, Florida Caverns State Park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and opened to the public in 1942. It was one of the many parks in the nation created by President Franklin D Roosevelt’s New Deal public works project.

The crown jewel of the park is the cavern. This limestone cave was created as sea levels fell and ground water eroded away at the surface resulting in a stunning display of stalactites, stalagmites and other geological wonders. Today the park features guided tours of the cavern several times a day for a small fee. The tour can be somewhat strenuous and features some tight spaces so if you find you are unable to physically participate, be sure to check out the visitor center for displays about the cavern and watch the video of the tour.

But the cavern isn’t all the park has to offer. The Chipola River passes right through the heart of the park, giving visitors an opportunity to spend the day on the water via kayak or canoe. Visitors can also hike the many miles of trails and then take a break from the heat by jumping into the Blue Hole Springs for a refreshing swim. The park even features a nine-hole golf course for those who came to the Sunshine State to play golf. If you like to spend the night, there is a campground on-site to accommodate a night in the woods.

The cultural significance of the Florida Caverns State Park led to the park being declared a US Natural Landmark in December 1976. It is also a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail and the Trail of Florida's Indian Heritage.

Florida Caverns State Park is located at 3345 Caverns Road in Marianna, Florida. It is opened year round from 8am until sundown. Admission to the park is $5 per vehicle with an 8 person limit. The cave tour is $8 per person and is purchased in person at the gift shop. Be sure to arrive early as tours can sell out. If you wish to camp at Florida Caverns, campsites are $26.70 per night and are operated by Reserve America.

For photos from our visit to the caverns, check out my Florida Caverns State Park photo gallery.

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