Named for the large sandstone cave within the park, Indian Cave State Park encompasses 3,052 rugged acres bordering the mighty Missouri River. The park is well known for its beautiful camping and picnicking spots, as well as for its 22 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. The park boasts sweeping views of wide, winding Missouri river and a majestic hardwood forest that puts on a spectacular show of colors each autumn. During the park’s annual Haunted Hollow each October, visitors can soak in the beauty of the season while partaking in hayrack rides, spooky campsite decorating contests, games, crafts and other family-friendly activities.
Attractions
The cave
Indian Cave is the main geologic feature of the area and bears prehistoric Native American petroglyphs of an unknown date and origin. They can be viewed from a wooden boardwalk extending the length of the cave wall.
Trails
Indian Cave State Park is well-known for its beautiful trail system and offers 22 miles of hike/bike trails, as well as 16 miles of equestrian trails. All trail users will find a variety of trails to suit their tastes, with the most scenic along the river. Adirondack shelters are located periodically along the trails.
Wildlife viewing
Indian Cave offers excellent opportunities to view deer, turkey, woodchuck, beaver, raccoon, and many species of birds, such as barred owls and whipporwills. Birding tours and naturalist programs are held year-round.
River access
Indian Cave State Park has two concrete boat ramps offering access to the Missouri River. The interactive Missouri River Outdoor Recreation Access Guide shows public access sites for fishing, hunting, boating, camping and more on the Missouri River. It also serves as a navigation guide.
Camping
RV camping
The RV campground offers 134 units with 30-amp electrical hookups (22 of which also have 50-amp capability). Showers, modern restrooms, laundry facility and a dump station, as well as picnic tables and grills, are available for RV guests. Camping is available year-round, with reduced rates during the winter season. While electricity is available throughout the year, the water is turned off during the winter months.
Primitive camping
The primitive camping area is tucked among the scenic hills and is open for use year-round. Showers are available in the tent camping area, as well as a water hydrant and electrical hookups. Grills and ground-level fire rings are provided. Additionally, there are Adirondack shelters along the trails for back-to-nature enthusiasts.
Equestrian camping
Indian Cave State Park also has a primitive group equestrian campground area for those who bring their own horses to the park. Equestrian trails throughout the park’s hardwood forest provide for beautiful riding.