Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy is a unique cave system park in northern Puerto Rico, offering visitors an extraordinary experience of exploring one of the world’s largest underground river networks.

2685
Acres Protected
3.5
Miles of Trails
Approximately 100,000
Annual Visitors
1986
Year Established

About Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy
 

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy is located in the karst region of northern Puerto Rico, encompassing an extensive limestone cave system formed by the Camuy River carving through subterranean passages. The park features an outstanding combination of natural geological features, including massive caverns, sinkholes, and an underground river that flows through approximately 10 miles of tunnels. The ecosystem within the caves supports specialized fauna such as bats and cave-adapted invertebrates, while the aboveground forested area is home to a range of tropical species. Established in 1986 and managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, this park presents visitors with opportunities for guided cave tours, hiking, wildlife observation, and educational programs detailing the region's natural and cultural history. Notable landmarks include the Cueva Clara and Cueva Juan Diego, expansive caverns renowned for their impressive formations and ease of access, as well as the Tri-Town Sinkhole (Sumidero Tres Pueblos), one of the largest natural sinkholes in the Western Hemisphere. Visitor appeal lies in the park's combination of adventure, education, and natural beauty, appealing to families, spelunkers, and nature enthusiasts alike. It serves as a critical conservation area protecting vital karst geological features and native species. The visitor experience is enhanced by well-maintained trails, safe guided tours, and informative visitor center exhibits, making it a standout destination within Puerto Rico’s protected places.

Highlights

Highlight

Tri-Town Sinkhole (Sumidero Tres Pueblos), a massive natural limestone sinkhole over 650 feet across

Highlight

Extensive underground cave passages featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and subterranean river formations

Highlight

Guided tours through Cueva Clara and Cueva Juan Diego, showcasing accessible cavern environments

Highlight

Opportunity to observe diverse bat populations and specialized cave fauna

Notable Natural Features

Camuy River Cave System

An underground river network carving intricate cave passages over 10 miles long, one of the largest in the world.

Tri-Town Sinkhole

A vast and dramatic natural sinkhole that acts as a key entrance point and viewing area within the park.

Cueva Juan Diego

A cavern with impressive limestone formations accessible through guided tours that showcase the subterranean landscape.