Explore the Enigmatic Illinois Caverns State Natural Area
Discover the captivating beauty and rich geological history of Illinois Caverns State Natural Area, a must-visit gem for adventurous travelers.
Discover the stunning Illinois Caverns State Natural Area, a captivating tourist attraction that showcases unique geological formations and vibrant ecosystems. Perfect for adventurous tourists, this hidden gem offers guided tours and opportunities for exploration, ensuring a memorable experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
A brief summary to Illinois Caverns State Natural Area
- 4369 G Rd, Waterloo, Illinois, 62298, US
- +1618-458-6268
- Visit website
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes as you will be walking through water in parts of the cave.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning geological formations and wildlife.
- Check the park's website for seasonal hours and guided tour availability before your visit.
- Travel with a group for a more enjoyable experience and to share the adventure.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Illinois Caverns State Natural Area from a location in Southern Illinois, head towards Waterloo, IL. Use GPS navigation or a map application with the address 4369 G Rd, Waterloo, IL 62298. The caverns are located approximately 30 minutes southwest of Belleville, IL. From Belleville, take IL-15 W for about 10 miles, then merge onto I-255 S. Continue on I-255 S for about 10 miles and take exit 6 for US-61 S. Follow US-61 S for about 5 miles until you reach the caverns.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, your best bet is to take a bus to the nearest major city, such as Belleville or St. Louis, MO. From Belleville, you can use a ride-sharing service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to Illinois Caverns State Natural Area. Note that public transport options may require additional planning and schedules should be checked in advance as they can vary. Expect to pay bus fare (typically around $2-$5) and potential ride-sharing costs which could range from $15-$30 depending on distance and surge pricing.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and are in the nearby area, consider cycling to the caverns. The roads leading to Illinois Caverns State Natural Area can be suitable for biking, but be cautious as they may have traffic. You can start from downtown Waterloo and head west on IL-156 and then south on G Rd. Ensure you have a proper map or GPS device for navigation. This route is approximately 5 miles from downtown Waterloo, and it will take around 30-40 minutes by bicycle.
Discover more about Illinois Caverns State Natural Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellefontaine Town State Historic Site
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Step back in time at Bellefontaine Town State Historic Site in Waterloo, IL, and discover the captivating stories of Illinois' pioneer past.
Red Bud Historic District
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French Colonial Historic District
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Creole House
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Modoc Rock Shelter National Historic Site
20.3 km
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Crystal City Underground
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Piggott's Fort Historic Site
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Nine Mile Creek Settlement Town Historic Site
29.0 km
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Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park
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World Shooting and Recreational Complex
33.8 km
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Charter Oak Schoolhouse
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Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site
35.0 km
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Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site
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Cahokia Courthouse
37.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fogelpole Cave Nature Preserve
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Fort de Chartres State Historic Site
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Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve
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Mastodon State Historic Site
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Cliff Cave County Park
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Illinois Welcome Sign
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The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum
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Missouri Civil War Museum
32.6 km
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St. Clair County Historical Society
33.8 km
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Labor & Industrial Museum
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Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site
35.9 km
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Adventure Valley Zipline Tours and Paintball Park
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Jarrot Mansion State Historic Site
37.3 km
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Walther Park
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Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
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Essential places to dine
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Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge
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Big Daddy's Bar in Soulard #1 Patio & Party Spot
41.1 km
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Peacemaker Lobster & Crab
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Sidney Street Cafe
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Hammerstone's
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The Shaved Duck Smokehouse
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Molly's In Soulard
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John D. McGurk's Irish Pub and Garden
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The Lucky Accomplice
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Chava's Mexican Restaurant
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Great Grizzly Bear
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Mosito’s In Soulard
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Mission Taco Joint - Historic Soulard
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Bogart's Smokehouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Remember When Antiques
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Retro 101/Cherry Bomb Vintage
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Cherokee Antique Row
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Gateway Market And Beauty Supply Store
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Ruby Francis
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AB Gift Shop
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Vincent's 12th Street Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Top Shooters Sports Bar
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Fortune Teller Bar
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ETTA'S BAR & GRILL
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Cat's Meow, Inc
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The Famous Bar
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1860 Saloon, Game Room, & Hardshell Café
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