Talking Rocks Cavern in Branson, Missouri, is Underground Fun for the Whole Family

In a part of the country riddled with caves, Talking Rocks Cavern is a unique relief from the amusement parks, music shows, and comedy routines of Branson, Missouri.

The cave itself is vertical, almost 100 feet from the only entrance at ground level to the clay floor. Concrete stairs twist into the caverns depths, leading visitors into a fairy wonderland of natural beauty. Early explorers also noticed its otherworldly charm; it was known for many years as "Fairy Cave".

The cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and even a few columns. Draperies hang from the ceiling and create amazing curling spires, and at one point along the path visitors are even allowed to touch a drapery as it creates an archway into the next room. The cave itself is still active; in the spring when the region has a lot of rain, tours are often conducted wearing slickers. There are places in the cave that still drip even in summer.

Although the only entrance to the cave is through the gift shop, there are still a few creatures who make the cave their home. The cave hasn't hosted any bats for many years, but salamanders and the tiny crustaceans they eat live in the pools at the cave's bottom.

Halfway through the tour (once everyone reaches the bottom), the guide will turn out all of the lights for a special light spectacle. Instrumental music plays while colored music dances across and shines through the cave formations. Afterwards, they also demonstrate how much early explorers, who were equipped only with lanterns, were able to see. Because the cave is vertical and the lights are turned out at the end of the show, this tour is not recommended for those who have a severe fear of heights or of the dark.

After the tour (which lasts about an hour), there are several other activities around the cavern for families. There is a nature trail with a new 40-foot Treetop Tower to enjoy. Children can also crawl through the Speleo Box maze, 150-foot winding, twisting passageway. According to the tour guides, this activity is used by cavers to practice safe caving techniques in a fun, simulated cave passage. There is also a miniature golf course and a gem sluice, where visitors can purchase bags of dirt with unpolished semi-precious gems and pan for treasure.

Talking Rocks Cavern has a lot of activities that are fun for the whole family. It's easy to spend an entire day visiting the cave and enjoying the rest of the park.