Natural Features & Ecosystems

Calcite rafts in Jewel Cave
Thin sheets of calcite formed on the surface of an ancient pool of water.  The pool is now gone, and only these delicate "calcite rafts" remain.

NPS Photo

The primary resource of Jewel Cave National Monument is the cave itself. Jewel Cave is a unique world of sparkling calcite crystals, delicate strands of gypsum, and other spectacular cave formations. It contains large rooms strewn with boulders, tight crawlways, and dark fissures leading into the unknown.

Cave / Karst Systems
Learn more about Jewel Cave.

Geology of Jewel Cave
Learn about the forces and events that helped create Jewel Cave.

Last updated: August 13, 2021

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

11149 U.S. Hwy. 16
Building B12
Custer, SD 57730

Phone:

605 673-8300
The main phone line connects visitors with staff at the visitor center. Throughout the year, the phone line is monitored by staff on a daily basis, excluding holidays and days with limited visitor services. Please be advised that after-hours messages are not taken on the system; visitors are encouraged to call the visitor center during normal operations and speak with a park ranger for assistance.

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