Cave / Karst Systems

A caver in Jewel Cave (Marc Ohms Photo)
A cave explorer in an area known as "The Stratosphere," approximately 5 miles from the elevator entrance.

Marc Ohms photo

Jewel Cave National Monument is well-known for its spectacular and unusual cave and karst features. Since 1959, cavers have made a concerted effort to map Jewel Cave, and have discovered that it is among the longest cave systems in the world. Scientific studies indicate that the current exploration / cave survey represents only a fraction of what remains to be found.

Cave Exploration

Collecting Cave Survey Data

An Explorer's Perspective

Last updated: July 17, 2020

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.

Contact Us

Tools

Stay Connected