An adventure seeker, nature lover, or a family planning your next memorable outing, Natural Bridge Caverns in Texas offers one of the most captivating underground experiences in the United States. Known for its majestic limestone formations, vast chambers, and family-friendly activities, this destination combines natural beauty with thrilling adventure. Get to know everything—from directions and ticket options to seasonal tips and nearby attractions—so you can plan your visit in the best possible way.
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Directions to Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas
Getting to Natural Bridge Caverns is easy and convenient, whether you’re driving from San Antonio or coming from other parts of Texas. The caverns are located at:
📍 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, San Antonio, TX 78266
From San Antonio:
Start by taking Interstate 35 North toward New Braunfels. After about 20 minutes, take the exit for FM 3009 (Exit 175). Head west for approximately 10 miles, and follow the well-placed signs to the entrance. The route is scenic and simple, passing through beautiful Texas Hill Country.
From Austin:
Drive from Austin takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via Interstate 35 South. Take the FM 3009 exit and proceed west as above. It’s a straight and smooth journey with well-marked directions and highway exits.
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From Houston or Dallas:
Expect a 3–4 hour drive. From either city, get on I-10 (from Houston) or I-35 (from Dallas), head toward San Antonio, and follow the directions as mentioned. The route is well-suited for road trips and offers places to stop and enjoy the Texas countryside.
Best Time to Visit Natural Bridge Caverns
The Natural Bridge Caverns are open year-round, with a constant underground temperature of 70°F (21°C) and 99% humidity. Best experience depends on the season, crowd levels, and outdoor weather conditions.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is the most recommended time to visit. The weather is pleasant, wildflowers bloom across the Texas Hill Country, and crowds are moderate. It’s ideal for exploring both the caverns and outdoor attractions like the Canopy Challenge or gem mining. Weekdays are especially peaceful, and the natural scenery is at its best.
Fall (September to November)
Fall offers cool temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant autumn colors. It’s a relaxing time to visit at your own pace. Seasonal discounts and events nearby make it a great off-peak option, especially for couples and adults looking for a quieter visit.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is popular but hot and crowded. Families on vacation often visit during this time. Arrive early—before 11 AM—to avoid peak heat and long lines. Advance booking and hydration are a must. The caverns provide a cool escape from the intense Texas heat.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the calmest time to visit. While it’s cooler outside, the cavern stays warm. The holiday season features the “Christmas at the Caverns” event with lights, caroling, and festive fun. It’s perfect for a peaceful and unique family outing.
Natural Bridge Caverns Tickets: Detailed Overview
Planning your visit to the Natural Bridge Caverns in advance not only helps you avoid long lines but can also help you secure better deals and availability—especially during weekends, public holidays, and peak seasons like spring break and summer vacations. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or at the on-site ticket counter, but advance booking is highly recommended to guarantee your preferred tour time and avoid disappointment.
Tour Options at Natural Bridge Caverns
1. Discovery Tour
This is the most popular and beginner-friendly tour, perfect for families, kids, and first-time visitors. The tour takes you through large chambers and winding passages featuring majestic stalactites, stalagmites, and breathtaking formations that took thousands of years to form. The well-lit pathways and smooth walking surfaces make it accessible for most ages. Guided by knowledgeable experts, the Discovery Tour offers an educational yet exciting introduction to the natural wonders below.
2. Hidden Passages Tour
This tour offers a quieter and more mysterious experience, venturing into less-traveled parts of the caverns. The passages are darker and narrower, creating a more intimate atmosphere. You’ll see rare and delicate formations like soda straws, flowstones, and helictites, which are less common in traditional cave tours. The Hidden Passages Tour also incorporates sound and light elements that enhance the mystical feeling of the journey. It’s a great option for those looking for something more off the beaten path.
3. Adventure Tour
Designed for adrenaline seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Adventure Tour skips the paved walkways and takes you deep into undeveloped parts of the caverns. Equipped with a helmet, headlamp, gloves, and safety harness, you’ll climb, crawl, squeeze, and rappel through narrow crevices and rugged terrain. This physically demanding experience is only recommended for those in good health and ready for a true underground challenge. It’s the closest thing to real spelunking you can experience in a guided setting.
Ticket Pricing (Approximate Ranges)
- Adults (Ages 12 and up): $25–$35
Prices vary based on the tour type and whether you purchase combo passes for multiple attractions. The Discovery Tour is usually on the lower end, while the Adventure Tour is higher due to gear and staffing needs.
- Children (Ages 3–11): $17–$25
Children’s tickets also vary by tour type. Note that the Adventure Tour is generally not available for younger kids due to safety restrictions.
- Children Under 3: Free
Toddlers under age 3 are admitted free of charge, but for safety reasons, it’s advisable to stick with the Discovery Tour.
Online purchases may offer special deals, combo packages with attractions like the Canopy Challenge, and timed entry slots that reduce your wait time significantly.
Group Discounts & Special Offers
Discounted rates are available for:
- School field trips
- Scout troops
- Church groups
- Corporate outings
- Large family gatherings or reunions
Group packages often include add-ons like educational talks, lunch areas, and activity bundles. Reservations must usually be made in advance through the group sales department.
Natural Bridge Caverns Combo Pass: Great Value for Families
For an action-packed day that blends underground exploration with above-ground adventure, the Combo Pass at Natural Bridge Caverns is the best deal available. This all-in-one pass is designed to maximize your experience and deliver fun for visitors of all ages. A first-time tourist or returning with the whole family, the Combo Pass offers both convenience and value.
What’s Included in the Combo Pass
1. Choice of a Guided Cave Tour (Discovery Tour or Hidden Passages Tour)
The Combo Pass lets you choose between two thrilling underground tours.
- The Discovery Tour offers a breathtaking walk through well-lit chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and centuries-old formations—ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
- The Hidden Passages Tour, on the other hand, is more secluded, dimly lit, and intimate, showcasing rare cave features like soda straws and delicate flowstones in a quieter, more mystical setting.
Both tours are led by professional guides who explain the fascinating geology, history, and discovery of the caverns. It’s the perfect educational journey to start your day.
2. Entry to Twisted Trails Adventure Course
Get your adrenaline pumping on the Twisted Trails Adventure Course, a multi-level outdoor ropes challenge featuring zip rails, tightropes, swinging bridges, and balance beams—set up high above the ground.
- The course includes options for different age and skill levels, with secure harness systems and safety staff on hand at all times.
- It’s an excellent way for kids and adults to test their bravery and coordination while having fun in the fresh Hill Country air.
Younger children can also enjoy Twisted Trails Tykes, a scaled-down version of the course made just for them.
3. Access to the AMAZEn’ Ranch Roundup (Giant Outdoor Maze)
This massive outdoor maze is a fun and interactive challenge for all ages.
- Navigate through winding paths, hidden clues, and checkpoints as you race against family or friends to reach the exit.
- The maze is cleverly designed to change periodically, so no two experiences are ever exactly the same.
- It’s a great way to bond with your group while testing your sense of direction and teamwork.
4. Gem and Fossil Mining Experience
Kids absolutely love this hands-on activity, which allows them to pan for treasures like real gemstones, fossils, and arrowheads.
- Using a flowing water sluice, participants wash away dirt to reveal sparkling finds they can take home as souvenirs.
- Educational cards and treasure bags are included to help kids identify their discoveries and learn about geology.
- This activity adds a tactile, exciting element to the day—perfect for aspiring young scientists or rock collectors.
Combo Pass Pricing (Approximate Ranges)
- Adults (Ages 12+): $45–$55
Pricing depends on the tour selected and any additional seasonal events that may be included. The Combo Pass represents a significant saving compared to buying each attraction separately.
- Children (Ages 3–11): $30–$40
Children enjoy full access to all included attractions, though height and age restrictions may apply for activities like the ropes course. Children under 3 are typically free for most attractions but may not be eligible for all combo activities.
Natural Bridge Caverns Parking Info
Parking is easy and stress-free at Natural Bridge Caverns. Unlike many popular tourist destinations, there is no parking fee, making it even more budget-friendly.
Parking Details:
- Large open-air lot with ample space for vehicles of all sizes
- Designated spots for handicapped and RV parking
- Bus and group tour accommodations are available
- Well-lit and patrolled area for safety
During peak seasons or events, attendants help guide traffic and ensure smooth entry and exit, so you won’t waste time searching for a spot.
Natural Bridge Caverns Nearby Locations & Attractions
Natural Bridge Caverns is surrounded by a variety of destinations that offer additional entertainment, cultural value, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re planning a half-day extension or a full weekend itinerary, these nearby attractions—ranging from historic towns to thrilling wildlife experiences—are conveniently located and worth the visit.
1. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Distance from Natural Bridge Caverns: 0.2 miles (1-minute drive / 3-minute walk)
Located immediately next to the caverns, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers an incredible African-style safari experience through more than 450 acres of rolling Texas Hill Country. Visitors drive through the ranch in their own vehicles, observing and feeding exotic animals including zebras, giraffes, antelope, ostriches, bison, wildebeests, and more.
The park features a walkabout area with Lemur Island, a petting barnyard, a safari-themed gift shop, and the Safari Camp Grill where you can enjoy lunch with a view. It’s a highly interactive, educational, and entertaining outing for families, couples, and groups alike.
2. Gruene Historic District
Distance from Natural Bridge Caverns: 18 miles (Approximately 25-minute drive)
The quaint town of Gruene, located near New Braunfels, is known for its rustic 1800s charm and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great stop for shopping, dining, and soaking in Texas history. You’ll find locally-owned antique shops, artisan boutiques, wine tasting rooms, and even tubing or kayaking options along the scenic Guadalupe River.
Highlight of the town is Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall, where live country music fills the air every weekend. Restaurants such as The Gristmill serve up traditional Texan cuisine with views of the river below. Gruene is an ideal stop for couples, music lovers, and those looking for a slower-paced cultural experience.
3. Schlitterbahn Waterpark – New Braunfels
Distance from Natural Bridge Caverns: 19 miles (Approximately 25–30-minute drive)
This award-winning waterpark is perfect for families or groups visiting in the warmer months. Located in nearby New Braunfels, Schlitterbahn features over 70 acres of water attractions including water coasters, lazy rivers, tube chutes, wave pools, and splash zones designed for younger kids.
One of the standout features is the park’s integration with the natural spring-fed Comal River, offering cool and clean water for an authentic river-floating experience. There are picnic areas, locker rentals, and food courts inside, making it an all-day destination for those seeking relaxation and adrenaline in one place.
4. San Antonio River Walk & The Alamo
Distance from Natural Bridge Caverns: 28 miles (Approximately 30–35-minute drive)
A visit to the caverns can easily be paired with a trip to downtown San Antonio, where two of Texas’s most iconic attractions await. The San Antonio River Walk is a beautifully landscaped pedestrian walkway winding along the San Antonio River, lined with cafés, boutiques, street performers, and historic buildings.
The Alamo, just a short walk from the River Walk, is one of the most significant historical sites in the United States. Guests can take guided tours, interactive exhibits, and walk through preserved mission grounds that tell the story of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. This pairing offers a blend of natural adventure and historical discovery within a single day.
FAQs
1. What are Natural Bridge Caverns?
Natural Bridge Caverns are the largest known commercial caverns in Texas, located near San Antonio. Discovered in 1960, they feature stunning limestone formations, underground chambers, and guided tours that showcase millions of years of geological history.
2. Where are Natural Bridge Caverns located?
Natural Bridge Caverns are located at:
📍 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
They are approximately 30 minutes northeast of downtown San Antonio, easily accessible from I-35.
3. What are the main tours offered at Natural Bridge Caverns?
The caverns offer several tour options:
- Discovery Tour – The most popular, showcasing massive chambers and stalactite formations.
- Hidden Passages Tour – A darker, quieter, and more intimate tour with dramatic lighting.
- Adventure Tours – Includes crawling and climbing through undeveloped parts of the cave.
- Lantern Tours – Select seasonal tours guided by lantern light for a unique atmosphere.
4. How much are tickets to Natural Bridge Caverns?
Ticket prices vary by tour type and age group:
- Adults (ages 12+): $25–$35
- Children (ages 3–11): $17–$25
- Under age 3: Free
Discounts are available for groups, online bookings, combo passes, and season pass holders.
5. What is included in the Combo Pass?
The Combo Pass includes:
- Access to one guided cavern tour (Discovery or Hidden Passages)
- Entry to the Twisted Trails Ropes Course
- Admission to the AMAZEn’ Ranch Roundup maze
- A gem and fossil mining experience
It’s a great value for families wanting a full day of underground and surface activities.
6. Is the cavern accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the Discovery Tour features paved pathways and handrails, there are inclines and stairs throughout. The caverns are not wheelchair-accessible, and those with limited mobility should call ahead to discuss specific needs. Above-ground attractions are more accessible and family-friendly.
7. Is there free parking at Natural Bridge Caverns?
Yes, parking is completely free. There’s a large lot available with space for cars, RVs, and tour buses. Handicap-accessible parking is also provided near the entrance.
8. What is the best time to visit Natural Bridge Caverns?
The best times to visit are during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience year-round. The cavern temperature remains around 70°F (21°C) with 99% humidity, providing a cool escape during hot Texas summers.
9. Are there restaurants or food options available on-site?
Yes, there are snack stands and cafés offering drinks, burgers, pizza, and other quick meals. There’s also a shaded picnic area for guests who prefer to bring their own food. Outside food is allowed in designated areas but not inside the caverns.
10. What other attractions are nearby?
Nearby attractions include:
- Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (0.2 miles) – A drive-through safari experience.
- Gruene Historic District (18 miles) – A historic town with shops, music, and river tubing.
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark (19 miles) – A family-friendly waterpark in New Braunfels.
- San Antonio River Walk & The Alamo (28 miles) – Iconic Texas landmarks full of history and culture.
