Even if you think you’ve exhausted all the bucket list-worthy destinations in Texas, there’s one place you probably haven’t considered: underground. Kickapoo Cavern State Park near Brackettville boasts a truly otherworldly landscape, and you’ll definitely want to visit.
Located 22 miles north of Brackettville, Kickapoo Cavern opened as a state park in 1991. It features 20 known caves, and guided tours into the largest of them all are held each Saturday at 1 p.m.
YouTube/Rio Bravo Multimedia
Prepare for a strenuous hiking adventure, as the cave is undeveloped. The tour is three hours long, and visitors are recommended to reserve their tickets online in advance.
YouTube/Rio Bravo Multimedia
Maintaining your footing is essential for safety, so wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking or walking shoes with good traction. Each person should bring two light sources, such as a flashlight and headlamp.
YouTube/Rio Bravo Multimedia
If you visit the park between mid-March and October, don’t leave without checking out Stuart Bat Cave! It’s the seasonal home of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats, who emerge at dusk to hunt for prey.
TripAdvisor/Donald1988
Watch in awe as the evening sky is blanketed in a swirling mass of vampiric creatures looking for blood. You’ll definitely want to bring a camera!
Texas Parks & Wildlife
There’s plenty of above-ground adventure to be had, as well. Armadillo Lookout Trail is a short-and-sweet, .6-mile hike that features striking panoramic views of the southwestern area of the park. Other trails of varying difficulties range in length from .4 to 6.5 miles long.
TripAdvisor/Crystal R.
Cave tours are by reservation only and limited to groups no larger than 10. The cost is $10 a person, plus the park entrance fee of $3 for adults and no charge for children under 13.
YouTube/Rio Bravo Multimedia
Check out this YouTube video by Rio Bravo Multimedia for a virtual tour:
YouTube/Rio Bravo Multimedia
TripAdvisor/Donald1988
Texas Parks & Wildlife
TripAdvisor/Crystal R.
Visit the park’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
Have you ever been to Kickapoo Cavern State Park? If so, what was your favorite part of the visit? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more caves to check out: Going Into These 8 Caves In Texas Is Like Entering Another World.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 20939 Ranch to Market Road 674, Brackettville, TX 78832, USA
