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Kartchner Caverns State Park: An Underground Wonderland

Explore Arizona's hidden gem: a stunning 'living' cave with breathtaking formations and fascinating history.

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Discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 1999, Kartchner Caverns State Park is home to a stunning 'living' cave system boasting remarkable formations that are still growing. Visitors can explore this underground world through guided tours, witnessing the wonders of nature while learning about the cave's unique ecosystem and history.

A brief summary to Kartchner Caverns State Park

Local tips

  • Reservations for cave tours are highly recommended, as walk-up tickets are limited and often sell out quickly.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time to pick up your tickets and learn about the cave at the Discovery Center.
  • Note that video and photography are not permitted inside the cave.
  • The Big Room Tour is only available from October 15 to April 15.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Kartchner Caverns State Park is located south of Benson, Arizona, off Highway 90. From Interstate 10, take Exit 302 and head south on Highway 90 for approximately 9 miles. The park entrance is well-marked and easy to find. Parking is readily available in the park's main lot, with designated spaces for RVs and accessible parking. The park entrance fee is $20 per vehicle (2-4 people), or $10 per vehicle (1 person), but is waived with a cave tour or campsite reservation. Cave tour tickets are extra. Note: There are no additional tolls or mandatory access fees to reach the park entrance.

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Discover more about Kartchner Caverns State Park

Kartchner Caverns State Park, located near Benson, Arizona, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into an underground paradise. Discovered in 1974 by cavers Randy Tufts and Gary Tenen, who kept its location secret for many years to protect it, the caverns are now a carefully preserved natural wonder open to the public. The park officially opened in 1999, after extensive efforts to ensure the cave's delicate environment was protected. The caverns are carved from limestone and filled with spectacular formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and towering columns. The Rotunda/Throne Room Tour showcases 'Kubla Khan,' the largest column formation in Arizona, and delicate soda straw stalactites. The Big Room Tour, available seasonally from October 15 to April 15, reveals colorful and bizarre formations and explores the cave's ancient and modern inhabitants. For a more adventurous experience, the Helmet & Headlamp Tour allows visitors to explore the cave using only the light from their helmets. Above ground, the park features hiking trails with views of the Whetstone Mountains, a Discovery Center with exhibits about the cave's geology and history, a gift shop, and a cafe. Kartchner Caverns State Park is also recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, offering stunning views of the cosmos. With its blend of underground wonders and above-ground beauty, Kartchner Caverns State Park provides a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

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