Guided Cavern Tours
Blanchard Springs Caverns is one of the most spectacular and carefully developed caves found anywhere in the world. It is located in the Ozark National Forest and is believed to have been formed, and continually changed, by an ongoing mountain spring that pours into a glassy-surfaced trout pond below the cave, called Mirror Lake.
The active cave, with its glistening formations, stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones is constantly changing, providing return visitors something new to see each time. Beautifully lighted rooms, that accentuate the cave's features, are equipped with handrails and paved trails for comfortable walking.
Tours are led by trained professional guides.
Tours are available daily Thursday through Monday (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Most days have multiple tours available. Click here for ticket availability and reservations.
Two tour options are offered this season:
- Dripstone Trail Tour travels through two huge rooms filled with an incredible variety and number of crystalline formations - sparkling flowstone, towering columns, and delicate soda straws. This shorter, easier trail takes visitors almost half a mile through the Caverns. All stairs can be avoided, however there are several steep ramps.
- Discovery Trail follows the path of the first explorers through large water-carved passages, under the natural entrance, along the cave stream, and through enormous, beautifully decorated rooms. This longer, more strenuous tour is 1.2 miles long, with nearly 700 stairsteps. Do not take this tour if you have walking, heart, or breathing difficulties. Tour is only available Memorial Day to Labor Day.
THINGS TO KNOW:
ARRIVAL TIME: When traveling to the Forest for a cave tour, please allow extra travel time for road work, wildlife on roads, and reduced speed due to curvy roads. We suggest that you arrive around 30 minutes before the start of your scheduled tour. This will allow for time to find parking, pick up your tickets, and use the restroom. All scheduled tours leave on time. Arrivals after tour time will not be permitted entry. No refunds for late arrivals or missed tours.
ACCESSIBILITY: This tour does not meet the modern standards for ADA accessibility. Visitors with manual and motorized wheelchairs and mobility devices can go on tour but must bring two able-bodied adults to assist them on the steep slopes. For more information regarding accessibility please contact the Caverns at 1-870-757-2211.For information regarding accessibility please contact the Caverns at 1-870-757-2211.
PREPARE YOURSELF TO BE COMFORTABLE: The cave is a constant 58 degree temperature so please dress appropriately; wear low-heeled non-slip shoes; there are NO restrooms underground.