Alabama has one of the highest cave densities in the U.S. In fact, Jackson County has more caves per square mile than any other county in America. Because of this, it’s not surprising cavers from all across the nation, and even world, visit the Yellowhammer State to explore our great caves. Listed below are six of Jackson County’s most popular caves. You’ll want to visit them all.
Cathedral Caverns, which is the main feature of Cathedral Caverns State Park, is located in the tiny town of Woodville. Measuring 25 feet tall and 126 feet wide, it has one of the largest commercial cave entrances in the world. Cathedral Caverns is also well known for its stalagmites and stalactites.
Russell Cave, also known as Russell Cave National Monument, is located near Bridgeport. With a mapped length of 7.2 miles, it's Alabama's third longest mapped cave. Another interesting fact about Russell Cave is that there's evidence it was used more than 10,000 years ago, making it one of the Southeast's most prehistoric caves.
Neversink Pit, also referred to as Neversink Preserve, is located off the beaten path in the tiny town of Fackler. It's a limestone sinkhole with a 162-foot drop. Neversink Pit attracts cavers from near and far, and it's also one of the world's most photographed sinkholes. Click here to request a permit, which is required.
Tumbling Rock Cave, which is more than 6 miles long, is one of Alabama's most beautiful horizontal caves. Because of its dramatic stalagmite and stalactite formations, it's also referred to as one of America's coolest caves.
Stephens Gap Cave is located near the tiny town of Woodville and has a 143-foot drop. It's a popular spot for rappelling, and its main feature is a beautiful waterfall. Like Neversink Pit, Stephens Gap Cave also requires a permit, which can be requested here.
Sauta Cave, which was formerly known as Blowing Wind Cave, is located Near Scottsboro, Alabama. It's home to one of the world's largest concentration of endangered gray bats. During the months of June, July, and August, you can expect to see around 300,000 bats emerge during evening hours.
Have you been to any of these six Jackson County, Alabama caves? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below.
