Rickwood Caverns State Park

Rickwood Caverns State Park is home to a gigantic underground cave that houses 260 million year old rock formations, stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones. Most folks visit this park so they can head underground to see the subterranean marvel and escape the summer temperatures.

The bad news is that canine visitors are not allowed in the cave. But since it is rather impressive, you may want to leave your beloved pet with another member of your pawty and take the tour. It's about an hour, so you won't be apart from your pooch for too long. 

The good news is there are plenty of other places dogs can go. The land surrounding the cave is covered in thick groves of hardwood trees and contains trails that will absolutely delight your doggo. Let them be the guide as you wander through the woods. Fossil Mountain Trail is one of the more pupular hikes. It’s only 1.2 miles, so your pup may not get completely tuckered out, but they’ll love hiking past limestone and dolomite boulders that dramatically vary in size. Some are as large as a house! That’s woofin’ huge! Don’t forget to carry plenty of water for both you and your pup, especially during the summer.

The park also has a campground with 13 campsites. Some are fully developed with electricity and water and can accommodate RVs. There are also a few sites that are more rustic and are geared toward tent campers. Modern restrooms and hot showers are available to all campers. Please note that there is a maximum of two dogs per site.

Rickwood Caverns State Park has plenty of other furrific activities. While visiting you can try geocaching, gem mining, or go for swim in the Olympic size pool. If you have two legged children in tow, stop by the playground. No matter where you go in the park, be sure to always have some clean-up bags ready to go and pick up after your furry friend, as well as water to share. No bones about it, this park will make your dog’s tail wag!