Deep in the Cave
Centuries-old amazing rock formations.
By Emily Moskal
When it's 100 degrees on a Texas summer afternoon, there's no better time to go underground and explore Texas caves, where the temperature sits at little more than 70 degrees all year long. Grab your headlamp and get ready to see some amazing rock formations that have taken centuries to form.
Colorado Bend State Park, Bend
Guided tours allow visitors to explore some of the 400-plus undeveloped caves here. The Discovery Tour offers less strenuous walking; other tours require crawling on hands and knees and bellies. Join monthly maintenance trips to the park caves with the Texas Speleological Association.
Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio
Reaching more than 200 feet below the ground, Natural Bridge Caverns is the largest and deepest commercial cavern in Texas, with massive chambers, amazing formations and emerald pools. Try out a latern-lit morning tour to feel as if you're the first to discover the wonders below.
Longhorn Cavern State Park, Burnet
Longhorn Cavern is one of the few Texas caves formed by an ancient, underground river. Now a tourist destination, Longhorn was a gathering place over the years for Native Americans, outlaws and Confederate soldiers. Highlights include the Hall of Marble and the Queen's Throne.
Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown
A variety of tour types are offered at one of the best-preserved caves in Texas. Soda straws, drapery columns, scalloped ceilings and an Inner Cathedral will wow visitors. Prehistoric fossils of 44 different species of animals have been found in the caves; some are on exhibit.
Kickapoo Cavern State Park, Brackettville
Kickapoo Cavern has 20 known caves; the two largest are publically accessible. Quarter-mile-long Kickapoo Cavern holds impressive formations. Stuart Bat Cave is home to roosting Mexican free-tailed bats from March through October.
