Alabaster Caverns State Park: Exploring Oklahoma’s Underground Wonder

Just a short drive from Alva, Oklahoma, Alabaster Caverns State Park is home to the largest gypsum cave open to the public in the world. Perfect for adventurers, families, and nature lovers alike.

What Makes Alabaster Caverns Special?

Alabaster Caverns State Park is special because it is home to the largest gypsum cave in the world that is open to the public. Unlike most caves formed from limestone, Alabaster Caverns was carved out of selenite, a crystalline form of gypsum. This unique composition gives the cave's interior a striking, white, and translucent appearance, with walls and ceilings that shimmer and sparkle. The cave is a rare geological marvel that not only attracts tourists but also provides a habitat for bats and other wildlife, making it a significant natural and ecological site. 🦇

Things to Do at Alabaster Caverns

• Guided Cave Tours

  

  Guided tours of the main cavern offer visitors a chance to explore a geological wonder in a safe and educational environment. Knowledgeable guides lead groups along a paved pathway, pointing out the unique features of the gypsum cave, including intricate formations, vast chambers, and the sparkling walls. These tours provide fascinating insights into the cave's formation, its history, and the unique ecosystem that thrives within it.

• Wild Caving

  

  For the more adventurous, wild caving provides a thrilling, hands-on experience. This activity allows participants to crawl and climb through unlit, undeveloped parts of the cave system, truly experiencing what it's like to be a true spelunker. Participants must bring their own equipment, including helmets and lights, and are often required to be with a guide to navigate the challenging and rugged terrain. This is a unique opportunity to explore the cave in a more raw and authentic way.

• Hiking & Camping

  

  Above ground, Alabaster Caverns State Park offers several hiking trails that wind through the beautiful gypsum hills and woodlands. The trails provide scenic views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The park also has a campground with sites for both tents and RVs, allowing visitors to extend their stay and enjoy the peaceful natural environment.

• Bat Watching

  

  The cave is home to a significant population of bats, primarily the federally protected Myotis velifer, or cave bats. During the summer, visitors can experience the incredible sight of thousands of bats flying out of the cavern entrance at dusk to hunt for insects. This spectacular natural event is a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts and provides a special opportunity to witness the ecological role of the cave.

Tips for Visitors

Tips for visitors to Alabaster Caverns: The cave maintains a cool temperature of around 58°F (14°C) year-round, so be sure to bring a light jacket. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the pathways can be damp and uneven. For the guided tours, it's a good idea to call ahead for tour times, as they can vary. If you plan on wild caving, be prepared with appropriate gear and check with the park office for regulations and to ensure tours are available. Finally, if you're hoping to see the bats, plan your visit for a summer evening, but be sure to arrive before dusk.

How to Get There

Alabaster Caverns State Park is located in northwestern Oklahoma, near the town of Freedom. The park's address is 217036 State Highway 50A, Freedom, Oklahoma. It is approximately six miles south of Freedom on Highway 50, followed by a half-mile east on Highway 50A. For those traveling from other parts of Oklahoma, it is about 20 miles north of Mooreland on Highway 50. The park is easily accessible by car, and its rural location makes it a peaceful retreat.

Wrap-Up

Whether you’re exploring the world’s largest gypsum cave, hiking the trails, or camping under the Oklahoma sky, Alabaster Caverns State Park is a must-visit adventure near Alva.

Planning to stay nearby? Don’t forget to Book a Room in Alva.