Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground: A subterranean escape
Explore ancient caverns, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a refreshing swim at Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground in Alabama.
Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground is a haven for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure [2]. The park's main attraction is the "miracle mile" of underground caverns, formed over 260 million years ago [8, 10]. Visitors can explore these geological wonders on guided tours, marveling at the limestone formations, ancient marine fossils, and unique cave-dwelling wildlife [3, 10]. The cave maintains a constant 62 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a cool escape in the summer and a warm refuge in the winter [3]. Above ground, the campground offers a variety of activities [9]. There are 13 water and electric campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, as well as 5 primitive tent sites [7, 14]. The park also features the Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail, where you can observe leaf and seashell imprints in the rocks [3, 9]. During the warmer months, take a refreshing dip in the Olympic-sized swimming pool, which is fed by the chilly waters from the cave [2, 3]. Other amenities include picnic areas, a playground, a gift shop, and gemstone mining [3, 9]. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground provides a memorable experience [2]. The combination of fascinating cave tours, scenic hiking trails, and a family-friendly atmosphere makes it a worthwhile destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation [2, 9].
Local tips
- Check the park's website for cave tour availability and seasonal closures before your visit [5].
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the cave tour, as the floors can be slippery and uneven [5].
- Bring a light jacket for the cave, as the temperature remains a constant 62 degrees Fahrenheit [3, 5].
- Consider visiting during the off-season (March-May & August-October) for fewer crowds [8].
- Take advantage of the discounted cave tour rate offered to campers [2, 14].
A brief summary to Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground
Getting There
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Driving
From I-65 Southbound, take Exit 289 to CR-5. Turn right onto CR-5 and travel 0.5 miles to Rickwood Caverns Road (CR-4). Turn left onto Rickwood Caverns Road and travel 2.5 miles to the park entrance on the left [2]. From I-65 Northbound, take Exit 284 to State Highway 160. Turn left onto State Highway 160 and travel 100 yards to Skyline Drive (CR-8). Turn right onto Skyline Drive and travel 2.5 miles to Rickwood Caverns Road (CR-4). Turn right onto Rickwood Caverns Road and travel 1.5 miles to the park entrance on the right [2]. Parking is available at the park. Parking fees are included in the entrance fee [3, 8]. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season [2].
