Cathedral Caverns State Park, Hill Country Travel Guide

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Discover Alabama's underground wonderland: Cathedral Caverns State Park, home to stunning formations and outdoor adventures.

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Cathedral Caverns State Park

Explore the depths of Cathedral Caverns State Park in Woodville, Alabama, and discover a world of stunning geological formations. Originally named 'Bat Cave,' this natural wonder boasts one of the largest cave entrances globally and features impressive stalagmites and stalactites, scenic hiking trails, and a campground for a memorable outdoor experience.

A brief summary to Cathedral Caverns State Park

637 Cave Rd, Woodville, Alabama, 35776, US
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Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cathedral Caverns State Park.

Book your cave tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out on this incredible experience.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on paved, but potentially slippery, surfaces.
The cave maintains a constant 60°F (15°C) temperature, so dress accordingly.
Pets are not allowed in park buildings or inside the cave.

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Explore Cathedral Caverns State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cathedral Caverns State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Cathedral Caverns State Park is located at 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776. From Huntsville, take I-565 East, then merge onto US-72 East. Continue to Country Road 63 in Woodville, turn right, and then left onto Cathedral Caverns Road. Follow the road to the park entrance. Parking is available near the Visitor Center. Parking is free for day-use visitors.

Discover more about Cathedral Caverns State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park, nestled in the foothills of Northern Alabama, invites you to explore a breathtaking subterranean landscape. The park's main attraction, Cathedral Caverns, features a massive entrance, measuring 126 feet wide and 25 feet high, possibly a world record for commercial caves.Originally known as 'Bat Cave,' the caverns were renamed for their cathedral-like appearance, complete with stunning stalagmites and stalactites. The cave was first opened to the public in 1955 by Jacob 'Jay' Gurley, who purchased the cave and developed it as a tourist attraction. In 1987, the State of Alabama acquired the caverns, and in 2000, it officially became a state park.Inside, you'll find remarkable formations, including 'Goliath,' one of the world's largest stalagmites, standing 45 feet tall with a circumference of 243 feet. Other notable sights include the 'Frozen Waterfall,' a massive flowstone formation, a stalactite forest, the 'Big Room' large enough to fit a football field, and the 'Mystery River'.Beyond the cave, the 493-acre park offers hiking trails with scenic views, gem mining, and camping facilities. The cave maintains a comfortable 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it an ideal destination in any season.