Logan Cave National Wildlife Refuge

Logan Cave is a national wildlife refuge in Benton County with passages carved through limestone bedrock. A spring-fed stream flows continuously through the cave system into Osage Creek, a tributary of the Illinois River.

The site became the 455th U.S. National Wildlife Refuge in March 1989 under protections from the Endangered Species Act. This designation recognized the geological and ecological importance of the limestone cave system to the region.

The cave's rock formations contain shells and other remains from an ancient sea, telling the story of how the Ozarks were shaped millions of years ago.

Access to the cave is restricted year-round and requires special permits to protect the delicate ecosystem inside. Visitors should contact the refuge in advance to learn about access options, as entry is carefully limited.

This refuge is one of just two known habitats worldwide for the Benton cave crayfish, a rare crustacean found almost nowhere else. The species depends almost entirely on this location for survival.

Location: Benton County

Inception: March 14, 1989

Website: https://fws.gov/hollabend/logancave

GPS coordinates: 36.19790,-94.39540

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:08