A Significant Pleistocene Paleontological Site

Located in Camden County, Missouri, Perkins Cave has an entrance near a county road. The cave is a significant Pleistocene paleontological site with many natural bridges and striking passages. Situated in Gasconade dolomite bluff, Perkins Cave is more than 2000 feet in length. The long winding main passage has an abundance of short side passages, domes that are enlarged joints and right angle bends.

Out of sight of the owner’s residence, this privately owned cave was vulnerable to trespassing and vandalism. The owner and the Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy (MCKC) entered into a management contract in 2003 and Perkins Cave became the site of MCKC's first cave gating project. Installing a gate at the cave entrance put a stop to vandalism and trash accumulation. And, since the gate installation, visitors have reported an increase in cave life.

How to Obtain an Access Permit

MCKC has established a liberal visitation policy. For permit requests, please contact Perkins Cave Manager: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it