Fee: $10/vehicle; cave tour tickets extra (book ahead)
About this park
Kartchner Caverns State Park near Benson protects a world-class living cave, meaning its formations are still actively growing. The cavern was discovered in 1974 and kept secret for years so that it could be protected, and it opened to the public later as a carefully managed park. Guided tours take visitors through chambers filled with delicate stalactites, stalagmites and colorful formations, all in a tightly controlled environment. Above ground, the park offers trails, a campground and cabins, making it easy to turn a cave tour into a longer visit. Entry is $10 per vehicle, and cave tour tickets cost extra and should be booked ahead. Plan around your tour time, as tours often sell out.