Rickwood Caverns

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Quick Facts

Rickwood Caverns

Alabama

(205) 647-9692

Map Directions

Things To Do

Overview

Experience the thrill of Rickwood's miracle mile of underground caverns! The 260 million-year-old limestone formations, blind cave fish and underground pool are just a few of the natural wonders exhibited in the colorful cavern. The park features an Olympic-size swimming pool, snack bar, picnic area, large and small picnic shelters, hiking trails, playground, campground and gift shop.

Rickwood Caverns is a recognized member of the National Caves Association, and offers more than a mile of living geology. The caverns themselves were water-formed during the Mississippian period over 260 million years ago. Rickwood Caverns still contains active "living formations," as mineral-laden water droplets build colorful structures and flowstones. Rickwood Cave reveals that it was carved from an ocean bed- shell fragments and fossils of marine life are clearly visible along the cavern ceiling and walls. Many curiosities are featured on guided tours of the "miracle mile" at Rickwood Caverns State Park.

Map of Rickwood Caverns (AL)

Latitude, Longitude: 33.876758, -86.867352

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Activities

  • Camping

    Rickwood provides 13 developed campsites, 9 of which are landscaped and can accommodate trailers and motor homes of any size. Campsites are patrolled 24 hours, and comfort facilities include restrooms, seasonal showers, and a dumpstation.

  • Caving

    The star feature of the park is its extensive underground cave. Visitors descend 175 feet below the surface to explore the beautiful underground formations. Guided tours are available, and visitors may also explore on their own. Check with the park before visiting, as the cave's hours change with the seasons.

  • Hiking

    Go for a hike on the Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail which got its name from the leaf and seashell imprints visible in some of the rocks along the trailside.

  • Historic Sites

    Please contact the park for information on tours.

  • Picnicking

    Rickwood's picnic area offers tables, grills, shelters and plenty of shade trees. Shelters are available by reservation (starting November 1st for following calendar year), suitable for company picnics and family reunions.

  • RVing

    Rickwood provides 13 developed campsites, 9 of which are landscaped and can accommodate trailers and motor homes of any size. Campsites are patrolled 24 hours, and comfort facilities include restrooms, seasonal showers, and a dumpstation.

  • Water Sports

    The park's Olympic size swimming pool is fed by the cool waters from the cave, so it is guaranteed to refresh visitors on a hot summer day. The pool has both a one-meter diving board as well as a three-meter diving board.

Directions

Driving

From Birmingham take I-65 North 24 miles to exit 284. Turn left onto SR 160, travel about 100 yards and turn right onto Skyline Drive (CR 8). Travel 2.5 miles and turn right onto Rickwood Caverns Road. Travel 1.5 miles. The park entrance will be on your right.

Flying

The closest major airport is in Birmingham. A variety of car rental agencies is available.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(205) 647-9692

Links