Meramec Caverns in Sullivan, Missouri, offers more than cave spelunking. From electric campgrounds to ziplines and riverside boat rides, find out how this site blends geological wonder with family-friendly adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–4 hours depending on activities
Fitness Level
Suitable for average fitness; moderate walking involved on cavern tours and light physical activity outdoors.
Wildlife
History
Meramec Caverns has ties to 19th-century outlaw Jesse James, who reportedly used the caves as a hideout.
Conservation
The site balances public access and preservation by maintaining clean tours and limiting entry to sensitive cavern sections to protect bat habitats.
Meramec Caverns
Meramec Caverns in Sullivan, Missouri, offers more than cave spelunking. From electric campgrounds to ziplines and riverside boat rides, find out how this site blends geological wonder with family-friendly adventure.
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.
Book Cavern Tours Early
Tours can fill quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve your spot in advance to secure preferred times.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Inside the caverns and on outdoor activities, sturdy shoes with good traction keep you safe on uneven surfaces.
Check RV Power Requirements
Confirm your RV’s voltage compatibility with campground sites—options range from 30 to 50 amps.
Bring Layers for Comfort
Temperatures inside the caverns remain cool year-round, so pack a light jacket even in summer.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Support and traction are critical for navigating cavern floors and outdoor courses safely.
Light Jacket or Fleece
Cavern temperatures stay cool year-round; layering ensures comfort inside and out.
spring|fall|winter
Headlamp or Flashlight
Adds extra visibility during evening stays or in low-light campsite environments.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential during active summer days, especially on outdoor activities.
summer