Gemstone Mining & Cave Tours at Crystal Cave, Springfield
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; comfortable walking on uneven surfaces is needed.
Overview
Discover sparkling underground worlds with Crystal Cave’s Emerald Strike Package in Springfield, Missouri. Combine a guided cave tour, gemstone mining, and putt putt for a unique, family-friendly adventure.
Emerald Strike Package
Tour | Putt Putt | Emerald Strike Gemstone Mining • All ages!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring stunning geological formations in a captivating cave tour. Experience the thrill of gemstone mining, where all ages can discover and keep their treasures. Enjoy a day filled with fun activities, including putt putt, while creating lasting memories in this unique underground world.
Includes Cave Tour, Putt Putt, and Mother Lode Gemstone Mining!
Duration
1 Hour + Other Activities 3-4 hours for full experience
About
You certainly won't be disappointed in this adventure as you view many fantastic geological formations including stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone, and the rare helictites formations. Bring your sweater and strap on the provided headlamp as we walk through the old Springfield jail gates and enter this naturally preserved, spectacular geological underworld.
Gemstone Mining
All ages will enjoy Gemstone Panning. Each pay dirt includes an identification card and keeper bag, allowing participants to identify and take home all the treasures they discover. Fun for everyone!
Emerald Strike:
- 6+ oz. of gemstone mix
- 3+ oz. of emeralds
- 5 lbs of sand
- Educational gemstone ID postcard
- Take home collection bag
- Personalized labels for collection bag and mining rough bag
Select your cave tour time and experience the putt putt, and gemstone mining at your leisure throughout the day! We are open 10am-5pm.
Adventure Tips
Wear layered clothing
The cave maintains a cool temperature year-round; a light sweater or jacket will keep you comfortable.
Bring sturdy footwear
Paths inside the cave can be uneven and damp; closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended.
Reserve your cave tour early
Tours can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so booking in advance ensures your preferred time slot.
Keep an eye on children
While gemstone mining is family-friendly, children should be supervised during the cave tour and activities.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bats residing in deeper cave sections
- Local woodland birds like cardinals and blue jays
History
Crystal Cave was once part of an old Springfield jail site, with portions of jail gates still marking the entrance, blending regional history with natural wonder.
Conservation
Crystal Cave promotes sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and educating visitors on minimizing impact to delicate cave formations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight sweater or jacket
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool cave environment.
all specific
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet and provides good grip on damp, uneven cave floors.
all specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your time exploring above ground and mining.
all specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture unique geological formations and your gemstone finds.
all specific