National Reserve
Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota is one of the world's longest and most impressive caves, with over 220 miles of mapped passageways as of July 2025. Located approximately 13 miles west of Custer in the Black Hills, it became a national monument in 1908, making it the first designated to protect and preserve a cave.
The cave is renowned for its spectacular jewel-like calcite crystals that adorn many of its walls, shining brilliantly when illuminated, and for being an example of a breathing cave where air flows in and out due to outside pressure changes. The cave's formation dates back millions of years, created by water dissolving underground limestone, resulting in a labyrinth of chambers, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and other limestone formations.
The cave also features a unique ecosystem with nine species of bats and diverse geological formations, attracting researchers and visitors alike. Guided tours are the primary way to explore the cave, including a popular scenic tour that takes visitors through a managed, lighted section using an elevator, as well as other specialized tours such as the historic lantern tour and wild caving experiences.
Above ground, the monument offers hiking trails, a visitor center, exhibits, and picnic areas, encouraging visitors to experience both its underground wonders and natural surroundings while supporting conservation efforts.
| Address | 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, United States |
| Established | 7 February 1908 |
| Management | National Park Service |
| Phone | +1 605-673-8300 |
| Area | 1,273 acres (5.15 km2) |
Jewel Cave National Monument is located in South Dakota, United States.
Jewel Cave National Monument is situated in the state of South Dakota.
The main phone number for the Jewel Cave National Monument is +1 605-673-8300.
The address of Jewel Cave National Monument is 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, United States.
Yes, Jewel Cave National Monument is family-friendly and attracts visitors of all age groups.
Visitors usually spend a few hours to a full day exploring Jewel Cave National Monument.
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations near Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota.
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