Sleeping With the Earth: Cave Camping at Sims Cave Park
1-7 Nights • Up to 8 Guests
The first breath of the cave is cool and steady, a lungful of 62°F that feels like someone left the door to the mountain open just for you. You step from the forest into a low-mouth chamber where light softens into charcoal, and the usual campsite rules—polite talk, rattling gear, the glow of a fire—shift to a different cadence. Here, sounds hang longer; your own voice bounces back measured and small. Overnighting inside Sims Cave Park is an exercise in scale: the trees are taller outside, the sky wider, but the cave keeps a quiet intimacy that invites a different kind of attention.
Trail Wisdom
Bring Two Light Sources
Headlamps are available to rent but pack a primary headlamp and a handheld flashlight with extra batteries—reliable lighting is essential inside the cave.
Layer for 62°F
The cave stays around 62°F year-round—bring a warm sleep system even if it’s hot outside.
Respect Formations
Avoid touching stalactites and flowstone; oils from skin can halt growth and damage fragile features.
Use Designated Fire Pits
Fires are permitted only in assigned areas—check rules at check-in and never leave a fire unattended.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning fog over Wesbrooke Springs (best at sunrise)
- •Small bluff overlooks on the trail that offer unexpected valley views
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, Eastern phoebe and other songbirds
Conservation Note
Stick to trails, keep fires in pits, and pack out all trash—cave environments are slow to recover from damage and sensitive to contamination.
The cave forms are part of a karst landscape shaped by limestone dissolution over thousands of years; the region has a long tradition of community stewardship for its caves.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers, Mild weather, Birdwatching
Challenges: Mud on approaches, Bursts of pollen
Spring brings mild temperatures and regrowth on the forest trails—expect mud after rain and lively bird activity.
summer
Best for: Escape from the heat, Family trips
Challenges: Higher humidity outside, Increased insect activity
Summer heat makes the cave a cool refuge; bring insect repellent and plan for humid walks to the site.
fall
Best for: Fall color, Comfortable nights, Raptor migration
Challenges: Earlier sunsets, Variable daytime temps
Fall is ideal: cooler days, clear nights, and dramatic foliage in the surrounding valley.
winter
Best for: Cave’s steady temp, Quieter campsites
Challenges: Cold mornings outside, Potential icy approaches
Winter’s contrast is striking—the cave stays temperate while outside mornings can be frosty; pack warm layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Headlamp + Spare BatteriesEssential
Primary light source for inside the cave; backups prevent being caught in the dark.
Warm Sleeping Bag (20–40°F Rating)Essential
Though the cave is steady at 62°F, a warm bag ensures comfort overnight.
Sturdy Trail ShoesEssential
Closed-toe, grippy shoes handle rocky cave floors and muddy approaches.
Reusable Water Bottle & Filter
Hydration on approach and at camp; filters help if you plan to use natural sources.
Common Questions
How do I book a cave camping night?
Reserve your stay through the park’s booking page: https://app.advcollective.com/local-experts/cave-camping-experience, which lists availability and pricing.
Is the cave safe for kids?
Yes—many families visit. Supervise children near edges and teach them to be quiet and careful around formations.
Are fires allowed?
Fires are allowed only in designated pits—check rules at check-in and never leave a fire unattended.
Is there running water and toilets?
There are composting toilets and showers roughly 100 yards downhill from the cave entrance; carry water for the hike in.
Can I bring a pet?
Pets policies vary—check the booking page and ask staff in advance; expect to keep pets leashed and out of cave chambers.
Do I need special gear for the cave?
No technical gear is required—good lighting, sturdy footwear, and basic camp kit are sufficient.
What to Pack
Headlamp with extras; warm sleeping bag; sturdy shoes; refillable water bottle—light, essential gear for cave comfort and safety
Did You Know
Alabama has more than 4,000 documented caves, and Sims Cave maintains a near-constant 62°F year-round.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive before dusk; charge devices; bring cash for small fees; check weather for muddy approaches
Local Flavor
After your night underground, drive into Pell City for refreshing BBQ or a hometown diner meal—small local kitchens serve up hearty portions that hit the spot after a day outdoors.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International (BHM) ~45–60 min; Meeting point: Sims Cave Park, 2374 White Oak Trail, Smoke Rise, AL 35180; Driving from Pell City: ~20–30 minutes; Cell service: patchy at the cave and on valley trails; Permits/Booking: Required—book online at the park listing.
Sustainability Note
Cave ecosystems are fragile—avoid touching formations, use established fire pits, and pack out all waste to protect subterranean life.