Smallin Civil War Cave, Ozark Mountains Travel Guide

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Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Smallin Civil War Cave in Ozark, Missouri. Explore ancient formations and Civil War stories!

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Smallin Civil War Cave

Explore Smallin Civil War Cave in Ozark, Missouri, a natural wonder with a rich history spanning thousands of years. Discover ancient formations, Native American relics, and Civil War connections on guided tours suitable for all ages and abilities.

A brief summary to Smallin Civil War Cave

3575 N Smallin Rd, Ozark, Missouri, 65721, US
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Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Smallin Civil War Cave.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a half-mile walk on concrete pathways.
The cave maintains a constant temperature, so dress accordingly, even in warm weather.
Check the Smallin Civil War Cave website for hours of operation and tour schedules, especially during January and February.
Consider booking the Wild Cave Tour for a more adventurous experience, but be prepared to wade through water and navigate rugged terrain.
Combine your cave visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Ozark Square or Finley Farms for a fun day out.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Ozark Folk Center State Park

Ozark Mountain Ziplines

Ozark - St. Francis National Forest

Onyx Cave

Christ of the Ozarks

Explore Smallin Civil War Cave on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Smallin Civil War Cave, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Smallin Civil War Cave is located at 3575 N Smallin Rd, Ozark, MO 65721. From Ozark, head north on Main St, which becomes N 3rd St. Continue onto US-14 W, then turn right onto N Smallin Rd. The cave entrance is approximately 2 miles on the right. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.
Walking

If you are in central Ozark, you can walk to Smallin Civil War Cave. Head north on Main St, which becomes N 3rd St. Walk towards US-14 W, then turn right onto N Smallin Rd. It is approximately a 2-mile walk, taking around 40-50 minutes.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Smallin Civil War Cave, you can take a Greyhound bus to Springfield, MO. From there, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the cave, which is about 20 miles away. This typically costs $30-$50 for a one-way trip.

Discover more about Smallin Civil War Cave

Smallin Civil War Cave, nestled in the Ozark hills near the town of Ozark, Missouri, offers a captivating journey through time and nature. This remarkable cave boasts a history stretching back over 8,500 years, with evidence of use by Native Americans, Civil War soldiers, and early Ozarks settlers.The cave's impressive entrance, measuring 55 feet high and 100 feet wide, is among the largest in Missouri. Inside, visitors can explore a half-mile of gently sloping pathways, making it accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Knowledgeable guides lead tours that reveal the cave's fascinating geology, including fossils of ancient sea creatures and stunning formations like the Indian Ladder.Smallin Cave's history is as captivating as its natural beauty. The cave was home to Osage Indians, and it is likely that members of the Cherokee tribe also lived here. Archaeological digs have uncovered relics of Native American life. During the Civil War, the cave is believed to have been used by both Union and Confederate forces for storage and shelter.Today, Smallin Civil War Cave is recognized as a Historic District in the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including the popular one-hour guided tour, the adventurous Wild Cave Tour, and the unique Civil War Lantern Tour. The visitor center and gift shop offer affordably priced souvenirs and educational merchandise.