Illinois Caverns State Natural Area, Cave system in Monroe County, United States
Illinois Caverns extends through 6 miles of mapped passages with formations of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and rimstone dams in limestone bedrock.
The cave opened for tourism in 1901 when Frederick Eckert discovered it, leading to visitors arriving by train and exploring with kerosene lamps.
The natural area maintains geological records of water erosion processes that shaped underground passages through limestone and dolomite bedrock over millions of years.
Visitors need three sources of light, sturdy boots, hard hats, and must complete a permit application at the site office before entering the cave.
The cave houses the Illinois Cave Amphipod, an endangered species that exists only in this location and several neighboring cave systems.
Location: Illinois
Inception: 1985
GPS coordinates: 38.23556,-90.13694
Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:37
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