Explore with Kids: Day Trip to Alabaster Caverns State Park

Alabaster Caverns in Oklahoma is a hidden gem in Freedom, OK that offers a truly unique and captivating experience for families. A great day trip option from Oklahoma City, Alabaster Caverns is a natural attraction known for its stunning gypsum cave system, and in fact is the only gypsum show cave in the US that is open to the public!
 

Alabaster CavernsLocation

217036 SH 50A

Freedom, OK 73842

Guided Tours

The guided cave tours at Alabaster Caverns are not only an adventure but also a fantastic educational opportunity. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the cave’s geology, history, and the unique flora and fauna that thrive in the dark, underground environment and stunning formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The tours cater to different experience levels, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors (even little visitors)!

Daily guided tours of Alabaster Cavern leave promptly on the hour from 9am-4pm. Must call to set up a tour: 580-621-3381

The tour will take around 45 minutes. Expect a few stairs and about 3/4 of a mile of walking through the cave.

*Tour Office Closed November 1 – February 28th. 

Admission

  • Free to enter the park, but there is a fee for guided tours. 
  • Guide Tours: Children under 5 free; ages 5-12 is $5; Ages 13+ is $10; Senior Citizens & Active Military is $8
©milehightraveler from Getty Images Signature on Canva

Best Time to Visit

Spring through fall is the best time to visit – no matter the season, you will want to dress accordingly as it is cooler below ground (inside the cavern is around 58-62°)! Bring a jacket, and be sure to wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes. 

Other Things to Do at Alabaster Caverns

  • Outdoor Fun: Beyond the cave, the park offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for wildlife observation. It’s a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for the park’s bat population. You may see bats flying in and out of the cave entrances during the evening hours.
  • Hiking: The park features hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty above ground. Enjoy a leisurely walk, observe wildlife, and take in the scenic surroundings. The Beaver Dunes Nature Trail is a popular choice.
  • Wild Caving: Better known as spelunking, Alabaster Caverns is home to four caves that are maintained especially for wild caving. Permits may be obtained at park office. No permits will be issued between October 1 and March 31 for protection of hibernating bats. A small fee per person applies. Wild caving is only permitted between the hours of 8am and 3pm.

Where to Stay & Eat Nearby

Nearby Areas to Explore with Kids

  • Exploring Nearby Attractions: Depending on your schedule, you can explore other nearby attractions, such as the Great Salt Plains State Park or the Little Sahara State Park.
  • Boiling Springs State Park: Located about 20 minutes from The Stables Lodge in Alabaster Caverns, Boiling Springs State Park features a natural spring, a small lake, and various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
  • Gloss Mountain State Park: Approximately 45 minutes from Alabaster Caverns, this park is known for its unique and vibrant red rock formations. Hiking and photography are popular activities here due to the incredible scenic views. 
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Oklahoma City Mom
Oklahoma City Mom is the go-to parenting resource for parents navigating life in the Metro. We love to explore OKC with kids and provide practical information and helpful resources as well as connecting moms to our local community and each other.

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