Rickwood Caverns State Park

Rickwood Caverns is a limestone cave system in Alabama extending roughly one mile underground with illuminated passages displaying rock formations. The routes include underground pools and are home to blind fish adapted to perpetual darkness.

The cave was discovered in the 1950s when a local leader stumbled upon it while guiding a youth troop through the area. This finding led to the creation of a public destination that has drawn visitors ever since.

The name reflects the partnership between its discoverer and a local collaborator who worked together to develop the site. Visitors can observe how the underground landscape has shaped people's appreciation for natural formations.

Visitors should prepare for stairs since accessing the cave passages requires climbing steps and underground temperatures stay cool year-round. Comfortable shoes and a jacket are practical for moving safely and comfortably through the passages.

The grounds feature an Olympic-sized swimming pool fed directly by water from the underground cave system. This rare feature connects surface recreation with resources flowing deep below.

Location: Blount County

Elevation above the sea: 299 m

Website: https://alapark.com/parks/rickwood-caverns-state-park

GPS coordinates: 33.87954,-86.84486

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02