{"id":4175,"date":"2023-08-05T11:18:50","date_gmt":"2023-08-05T11:18:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/highermag.com\/?p=4175"},"modified":"2023-08-10T23:31:45","modified_gmt":"2023-08-10T23:31:45","slug":"florida-caverns-state-park-camping-and-adventuring-in-the-caves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/highermag.com\/index.php\/2023\/08\/05\/florida-caverns-state-park-camping-and-adventuring-in-the-caves\/","title":{"rendered":"Florida Caverns State Park: Camping and Adventuring in the Caves!"},"content":{"rendered":"

Florida Caverns State Park, located in the heart of the Sunshine State, offers a unique and exciting camping experience for visitors of all ages. This park provides a rare opportunity for intrepid campers to explore its fascinating underground caverns while also enjoying the natural beauty of its lush, green surroundings.<\/p>\n

Campers can enjoy various guided tours of the park\u2019s subterranean features, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones, which have evolved over thousands of years.<\/p>\n

Above ground, guests can explore outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming, or simply relax and revel in the serene atmosphere of this natural oasis.<\/p>\n

With its convenient location in Marianna, Florida, this park is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or a more extended stay. Read on to discover what exciting experiences you\u2019ll have when you visit Florida Caverns State Park!<\/p>\n

\"Florida\"Florida<\/a><\/figure>\n
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<\/span>Campgrounds and Amenities<\/span><\/h2>\n

RV and Equestrian Camping<\/h3>\n

At Florida Caverns State Park, campers can enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings while having convenient access to modern amenities. The park offers a well-equipped campground that accommodates both RV and Equestrian camping.<\/p>\n

This campground features 35 spacious sites for RVs, complete with electricity and water hookups, and a separate area for equestrian campers with six horse stalls and parking for trailers.<\/p>\n

The campsites come with various amenities to make your stay more comfortable, including a picnic table and a fire ring with grill for outdoor cooking. Campers can enjoy leisurely meals surrounded by nature at these tables or simply relax and take in the picturesque surroundings.<\/p>\n

Amenities<\/h3>\n

The Florida Caverns State Park provides numerous amenities to ensure that campers have a pleasant and enjoyable stay. These include:<\/p>\n

Restrooms and Showers<\/h4>\n

The campground features clean, well-maintained restroom facilities, and hot showers for campers to freshen up after a long day of exploring the park.<\/p>\n

Dump Station<\/h4>\n

A conveniently located dump station is available for RV campers to maintain their vehicles during their stay.<\/p>\n

Parking<\/h4>\n

Adequate parking space is provided around the campground for both RV and equestrian campers.<\/p>\n

Picnicking Areas<\/h4>\n
\"Pine\"Pine<\/a><\/figure>\n

Scattered throughout the park are numerous picnic areas, where visitors can enjoy a delightful meal or snack amidst the natural setting.<\/p>\n


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<\/span>Cave Tours<\/span><\/h2>\n

Florida Caverns State Park offers guided cave tours that take visitors on an extraordinary journey through the park\u2019s underground chambers, featuring geological formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, draperies, and soda straws.<\/p>\n

Tour Schedules and Fees<\/h3>\n

The cavern tours are provided all year long, with a few exceptions during major holidays and certain periods for maintenance. The tours are conducted at regular intervals throughout the day, allowing visitors to select the best time to fit into their schedules.<\/p>\n

For an up-to-date tour schedule, contact the Visitor Center or check the park\u2019s\u00a0official website<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Safety Guidelines for Cave Tours<\/h3>\n

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone participating in the cave tours, the following safety guidelines have been established:<\/p>\n

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  1. All participants must be accompanied by a park guide throughout the tour.<\/li>\n
  2. Participants should wear appropriate footwear, as the cavern floors can be uneven and slippery.<\/li>\n
  3. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the tour.<\/li>\n
  4. Photography is allowed; however, the use of tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks is prohibited.<\/li>\n
  5. Touching or climbing on the cave formations is strictly forbidden, as it can cause damage to the delicate ecosystem.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Visitors who follow the guidelines and enjoy the magnificent sights of the caverns responsibly will be rewarded with unforgettable memories of their time exploring the underground wonders of Florida Caverns State Park.<\/p>\n


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    <\/span>Other Recreational Activities<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Florida Caverns State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities to keep visitors entertained and engaged with nature. Some of the most popular activities at the park include swimming and boating, hiking and horseback riding, and fishing.<\/p>\n

    Swimming and Boating<\/h3>\n

    The park features the beautiful Chipola River, which offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The Blue Hole spring also provides a refreshing swimming experience.<\/p>\n

    \"Kayaking\"Kayaking<\/a><\/figure>\n

    Remember to bring your own canoe or kayak as rentals are not available within the park. The Blue Hole and Chipola River are both excellent spots to cool off during the hot summer months.<\/p>\n

    Hiking and Horseback Riding<\/h3>\n

    For those looking to explore the park\u2019s natural beauty on foot or on horseback, Florida Caverns State Park has over five miles of hiking trails and eight miles of horseback riding trails. Hikers can enjoy scenic views and the unique opportunity to see the park\u2019s cave formations up close.<\/p>\n

    Horseback riders can take advantage of the park\u2019s equestrian trails, which meander through picturesque settings and stunning landscapes. Please note that visitors must bring their own horses, as there are no horse rentals available within the park.<\/p>\n

    Fishing<\/h3>\n

    Anglers can try their luck at catching largemouth bass, catfish, and bream in the Chipola River. Fishing is permitted in designated areas, and visitors must follow all Florida fishing regulations. Don\u2019t forget to bring your fishing gear, as the park doesn\u2019t offer rental equipment.<\/p>\n

    In addition to these recreation options, Florida Caverns State Park also features a children\u2019s playground area, making it a perfect destination for families seeking a fun and educational outdoor experience.<\/p>\n


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    <\/span>The Stables<\/span><\/h2>\n

    For equestrian enthusiasts, Florida Caverns State Park boasts stables that offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the park\u2019s beauty on horseback. The stables are well-maintained and provide a safe environment for both experienced riders and beginners.<\/p>\n

    \"Horseback\"Horseback<\/a><\/figure>\n

    Under the supervision of skilled staff, visitors can embark on guided trail rides that allow them to take in the park\u2019s breathtaking landscapes while bonding with their four-legged companions.<\/p>\n

    Amenities at the stables include:<\/p>\n