Onondaga Cave State Park sits along the Meramec River in Crawford County, Missouri, protecting 1,317 acres of Ozark landscape and one of the most spectacular show caves in the state. The park’s centerpiece — Onondaga Cave — earned National Natural Landmark status for its extraordinary formations, including massive stalagmites, delicate draperies, and the iconic Lily Pad Room, where calcite formations float on an underground lake.

Guided cave tours run daily from spring through fall, taking visitors along a paved, well-lit path through cathedral-sized chambers. Cathedral Cave, a second cave within the park, offers a wilder experience with fewer developed walkways and a more rugged feel. Both caves stay around 60°F year-round, so bring a light jacket even in summer.

Above ground, the Meramec River draws anglers chasing smallmouth bass and goggle-eye, while canoeists and kayakers float gentle stretches shaded by bluffs and hardwoods. Several miles of hiking trails wind through the oak-hickory forest, connecting river overlooks and spring-fed streams. Birders and wildflower enthusiasts will find the spring months especially rewarding.

The park’s campground offers both basic and electric sites nestled in the woods, with hot showers and a camp store nearby — a solid setup for families. Sites fill quickly on summer weekends, so reserving ahead is smart.

Visit between April and October for the best cave tour availability and river conditions. Fall brings quieter trails and brilliant foliage along the bluffs. This is one of Missouri’s best parks for combining underground wonder with classic Ozark outdoor recreation.

Explore Nearby

• Mark Twain National Forest — National Forest in Missouri
• Mary’s River Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Illinois
• Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route — Scenic Byway in Illinois