Previous | Next

Hurricane River Cave (Visit this link)

Welcome to the Hurricane River Cave Web site. We are located in northwest Arkansas on Highway 65, halfway between Harrison and Marshall (about a half hour drive either way), and about 50 minutes south of Branson.

You will be guided along a level ancient underground riverbed. These fantastic water-eroded passageways are the most unique of their kind among American show caves. Our cave features stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, draperies, soda straws, rimstone dams, cave popcorn, columns, moonmilk, stalactoflats, canopies, along with rare and unique shields, and more!

Our visitor approval ratings get high marks, according to an official state exit poll. Only the extremely claustrophobic would feel uncomfortable in our cave.

A number of unusual skeletons have been discovered in the cave. Among them are a saber-toothed cat (Smilodan Floridanus); many bears (including the prehistoric Ursus Americanus Amplidens); and, in 1989, a complete Indian skeleton, which is still in its final resting place as of 2000.

Not only are the caverns spectacular, but so are the grounds. The cave entrance is at the base of a towering bluff and is graced by a much photographed waterfall (specially created for the visitor) that spills some twelve-hundred gallons per minute. This water crashes down through a series of smaller waterfalls and pools. Green manicured lawns, flowering shrubs, flowers and trees complete the scenery. Especially pretty in the early spring are the native Arkansas red bud and dogwood trees.


We are open from March 1st to October 31st. Winter visits are available by appointment. Guided tours take approximately 45 minutes, and it's rare that anyone ever waits more than 20 minutes. The distance covered is about ¼ mile and is not strenuous -- only one incline and two staircases (17 and 27 steps respectively).

Our latest addition, completely separate from our normal tour, is a wild caving tour of the east passage. Take a boat ride on an underground river before a very easy climb into one of the most beautifully decorated cave passages in the Ozarks. This is true caving, including relatively tight crawls and is only suitable for those in good physical condition. You will be supplied with a Petzl caving helmet, Petzl headlight, spare light sources, knee pads, gloves and a fanny pack with water and energy snack (GORP). You will be accompanied at all times by a guide for your safety and the protection of the cave. Prepare to get muddy on this trip. Lace up boots required, long sleeve shirt highly recommended. Personal items limited and absolutely no cameras allowed. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. The wild caving tour is available by reservation only. Limited to 6 per tour. Age limit 12 with parent, 15 without parent, consent required. Call or e-mail for more information.

We are presently developing the lower east passage with a view to conducting tours through that part of the cave. This is an exciting future prospect and will add a new dimension to Hurricane River Cave. Stay tuned to our Web site for details on this addition.

Sheltered picnic tables are available. There is ample parking space.

Our gift shop showcases rocks, minerals, ceramics, full leaded crystal, and jewelry.

Come and visit us!

http://www.hurricanerivercave.com