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The Ultimate Florida Cave Guide

Florida never ceases to amaze me. We have wonderful waterfalls, freshwater springs, and even caves. I didn’t step foot in my first cave until 2020 and I’ve been hooked on hunting down these hidden natural treasures ever since.

I love how each cave is so different and you never know what you’re going to find inside. Will the cave be dry or will it be completely submerged underwater? Will you see bats, spiders, or salamanders?

While some caves are so perfectly hidden that you can’t see the opening from 10 feet away while others have open and obvious roofs, like Devil’s Denn. Whatever lies inside, it’s always an adenture.

Let’s get to the caves!

~ Florida Caverns State Park

This is the only Florida State Park with air-filled caves open to the public. I was surprised to see how many ‘rooms’ there were all and the variety of different shaped structures. These caves are truly fascinating structures.

The colored lights make for a magical experience and enhance the natural shadows, textures, and shapes of the cave walls. If you’re lucky, you may see tiny sleeping bats and salamanders.


~ Devil’s Den

Photo Credit: _amandaduart

Photo Credit: lagoddi

Photo Credit: jpaulso

Photo Credit: brooklynkitten

Devil's Den is one of the most prehistoric places in North America and is essentially a sinkhole that opened up exposing a spring. This cave is very reminiscent of a Mexican cenote.

I had a blast snorkeling and observing the cavern-like structure, but I think the dancing rays of light under the water were my favorite part.

If you plan to check it out, make sure to bring full snorkel and fin gear in order to gain access to the swimming area or rent them on site.

~ Blowing Rocks Preserve

Photo Credit: findingflorida912

Photo Credit: michellemnimal

These huge chunks of limestone on the coast make for a beachy cave that is unlike anything else on my list. This would be the perfect cave in Florida to watch a sunrise or sunset.

~ Warren's Cave

Inside Warren’s Cave, you will find four miles of underground passages, making it the longest dry cave in Florida. This is one of the most unique cave experiences in Florida as this cave is completely primitive. That’s right no railings, lights, or walkways. A lot of my more adventurous readers will enjoy the freedom of Warren’s Cave.

I could not find any photos of Warren’s Cave to use so I will direct you to good ol’ Google.


~ Dames and Peace Caves

Photo Credit: seancurry11

Photo Credit: dillomaster

Photo Credit: seancurry11

Photo Credit: smilesrfree

Located in the Withlacoochee State Forest are Dames and Peace Caves. Ruined (or enhanced) by amateur wanna-be graffiti artists, the cave’s natural beauty still shines through. These caves are separated by a roughly five-minute walk. Bring a flash light but leave the spray paint and enjoy a self-guided tour of Dames and Peace Caves.

~ Leon Sinks Geological Area

Photo Credit: jociobhainenqvist

Photo Credit: aewiv

Photo Credit: orion_kinsinger

Leons sinks is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world. It’s connected to Wakulla Springs. Up to twelve miles of this underwater system have been mapped and surveyed, which is amazing! This is one cave in Florida to explore both dry and wet.

 

~ Gator Hole

This is Florida cave off Mett Mill’s Pond that was exposed due to construction and the river being dammed. It is now underwater again and can only be explored that way. We will all have to wait until the next drawdown or explore it underwater.

Underwater Caves

Due to the way that Florida has formed, there are endless caves, cracks, and crevices to explore under the surface. You can find cave systems at almost any spring. The list of underwater caves in Florida would truly be endless.

In addition to my list below, here is a really good resource for underwater caves in Florida.

~ Ginnie Springs

Photo Credit: yesaira

~ Peacock Springs State Park

Photo Credit: wildwildwebst_

Photo Credit: sj.alice.bennett

~ Blue Grotto

Photo Credit: ortizrivera667

~ Volusia Blue Springs

Photo Credit: yesaira

~ Buford Springs

Photo Credit: floridaunfiltered

~ Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Photo Credit: agreen.fl

Did you know Florida had so many caves? If I missed your favorite, let me know below!