Adventure Brief
Drift down the scenic Meramec River and explore iconic caves on a float trip in Sullivan, Missouri. Perfect for families and groups seeking a memorable day outdoors.
3–5 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Drift down the scenic Meramec River and explore iconic caves on a float trip in Sullivan, Missouri. Perfect for families and groups seeking a memorable day outdoors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling skills and stamina for several hours on the water recommended.
Wildlife
History
Meramec Caverns served as a hideout for Jesse James and is a significant cultural site in Missouri’s history.
Conservation
Meramec River efforts focus on protecting water quality and native species through responsible tourism and river cleanup projects.
Meramec Caverns
Drift down the scenic Meramec River and explore iconic caves on a float trip in Sullivan, Missouri. Perfect for families and groups seeking a memorable day outdoors.
Meramec Caverns in Sullivan, Missouri, is a long-established tourist attraction offering guided cavern tours, lodging, campground facilities, and river experiences. The site is home to Missouri's largest commercial cave and features rare underground formations showcased on the guided Cavern Tour and the iconic Theatre Room Light-Show. Visitors can book historic cave tours that highlight geology, cave history, and notable formations.
Beyond the cave, Meramec Caverns operates the La Jolla Natural Park motel and campground. Motel rooms include double and triple bed options with mini fridges and microwaves; a pet-friendly double room option is available seasonally. Campground choices range from primitive tent sites to electric sites suitable for RVs with up to 50 amp service, with sites numbered for reservation.
Seasonal outdoor experiences include guided float trips down the Meramec River, where families can canoe or raft to the caverns, and the Caveman Zipline, a guided zipline course with multiple sky-bridges and high-speed runs. Amenities at the park include shaded picnic areas, riverfront sites, barbecue pits, playgrounds, and restrooms.
Meramec Caverns maintains a focus on safety and visitor information through guided experiences and staffed facilities. Operating seasons and amenities are clearly posted for motel stays (April–October) and outdoor activities. As a long-running commercial attraction in Sullivan, Meramec Caverns combines natural geology, family accommodation, and outdoor recreation to deliver reliable visitor experiences throughout the season.
On-site staff provide directions, safety briefings, and ticketing; reservations are recommended for popular experiences and lodging during peak summer and holiday weekends for accurate availability and planning.
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
Cavern tours, zipline, floats, lodging
Location
Sullivan, MO
Situated on the Meramec River
RV Power
50 amp Sites
Electric hookups for RVs
Camping Options
Primitive & Electric
1–7 night stays available
Reserve a Cavern Tour, Caveman Zipline run, float trip, motel room, or campground site—check seasonal availability and book ahead.
Wear Water-Ready Footwear
Choose shoes that dry quickly and provide good grip for wading or walking on slippery surfaces.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Protect your phone, camera, and snacks from splashes and unexpected rain with a waterproof dry bag.
Apply Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin without harming the river ecosystem.
Watch for Changing Water Levels
Be aware that water levels can rise or fall quickly after rain, affecting navigation.
Life Jacket
Provides safety and is required on all watercraft during the float trip.
Waterproof Camera
Capture scenic river views and wildlife encounters without worrying about water damage.
Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, especially in warmer months.
summer
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Stay dry during sudden spring showers while on the river.
spring