Contact Info
Hwy 90
Benson, AZ 85602
Benson, AZ 85602
- Information:
- 520-586-4100
- Reservations:
- 520-586-2283
Basics
- Location:
- 50 miles southeast of Tucson along Hwy 90
- Type:
- State Parks
- Elevation:
- 4,600 feet feet
Description
In November 1974 two young cavers, Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts, were exploring the limestone hills at the base of the Whetstone Mountains. In the bottom of a sinkhole they found a narrow crack leading into the hillside. Warm, moist air flowed out, signaling the existence of a cave. After several hours of crawling, they entered a pristine cavern. It wasn't until February 1978 that Tenen and Tufts told the property owners, James and Lois Kartchner, about their amazing discovery.
During the four years of secret exploration, the discoverers realized that the cave's extraordinary variety of colors and formations must be preserved. The cave's existence became public knowledge in 1988 when its purchase was approved as an Arizona State Park. Extraordinary precautions have been taken during its development to conserve the cave's near-pristine condition.
The park is located nine miles south of I-10, off State Hwy 90, exit 302.
Hours + Fees
Hours:
7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Cave Tours: 8:15 am to 4:40 pm
Cave Tours: 8:15 am to 4:40 pm
Season:
Open year round
Amenities
Amenities:
Campground
Modern Restrooms
Picnic Area(s)
Showers
Visitor Center
Modern Restrooms
Picnic Area(s)
Showers
Visitor Center
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
The park is located nine miles south of I-10, off State Hwy 90, exit 302.
