Crystal Lake Cave
Explore stunning underground crystal formations on a guided tour, with a fun gem-mining area for kids.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Smaller groups, less waiting
Crystal Lake Cave
Best Time
Smaller groups, less waiting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore stunning underground crystal formations on a guided tour, with a fun gem-mining area for kids.
"Our family went today 8/2/25, we got there about 9:45 and our tour started at 10. Our tour guide was Alex and he was amazing!"
Arrive Early for Smaller Groups
Get there before opening for a better chance at a smaller tour group. :clock1:
Borrow a Jacket!
Caves are 55°F year-round. Jackets are provided, but layers are smart. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Crystal Formations
Main cave chambers
Marvel at the stunning, well-lit crystal formations, a true underground spectacle.
Underground Lake
Deepest part of the cave
Discover a mysterious underground lake, adding an element of awe to the tour.
Gem & Fossil Mining
Outdoor mining area
A fun, interactive experience for kids (and adults!) to dig for treasures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Crystal Lake Cave Tour
Dress for the Underground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Smaller Groups
Get there before opening for a better chance at a smaller tour group. :clock1:
Borrow a Jacket!
Caves are 55°F year-round. Jackets are provided, but layers are smart. :cloud:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on cave paths, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Sign the Guestbook
A fun tradition to leave your mark and see who else has visited! :memo:
Cave recommendations
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Smaller Groups
Get there before opening for a better chance at a smaller tour group. :clock1:
Borrow a Jacket!
Caves are 55°F year-round. Jackets are provided, but layers are smart. :cloud:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on cave paths, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Sign the Guestbook
A fun tradition to leave your mark and see who else has visited! :memo:
Gem Mining Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the gem and fossil mining area. Bring cash for extra bags. :gemstone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Crystal Lake Cave for its stunning formations and knowledgeable, friendly tour guides who make the experience engaging for all ages. The consistent cool temperature and the fun gem-mining activity are also highlights. Some visitors note the drive can be long, but deem it worthwhile.
"Our family went today 8/2/25, we got there about 9:45 and our tour started at 10. Our tour guide was Alex and he was amazing! I would suggest getting there when they open as you have a better chance of having a smaller group, ours was 6 but they can be as big as 25! Crystal lake cave was about a 2 1/2 hour drive for us but it was worth it, it was a great experience! Alex also mentioned the Mines of Spain that are nearby and that is something else I would suggest to check out.
I would definitely go back!!"
Kelly
"This place was SO cool! Stopped in for a tour this past weekend. Our tour guide was Brock and he was super informative about the cave and also made the tour fun while giving plenty of cool facts and science of the cave. I was in awe of all the formations in the cave. Definitely was worth the $20 for the tour!"
Jacqueline B
"Great experience. Pearl was a great tour guide. Very professional but felt like our friend of a long time. A ton of knowledge and we all were interested in parts of the cave crystals that were named. Overall we’ll check it out again. Also they provided jackets for you to borrow the caves are 55 Degrees."
Felipe Castro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crystal Lake Cave is located in Illinois. While specific directions depend on your starting point, it's often described as a drive from the Chicago area. Some visitors mention it's a 2.5-hour drive, making it a worthwhile day trip or stop on a longer journey.
Information regarding public transport accessibility is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car to reach Crystal Lake Cave, as it's a destination that requires dedicated travel.
Yes, one reviewer mentioned the Mines of Spain nearby as another attraction worth checking out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A tour of Crystal Lake Cave typically costs around $20 per person. Prices can vary, so it's best to confirm on their official website or upon arrival.
Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site. However, arriving early is advised, especially on weekends, to ensure you get a spot on your desired tour time and avoid long waits.
Crystal Lake Cave generally opens around 9:45 AM for a 10 AM tour start. It's advisable to check their official hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's a good idea, especially for weekend visits or if you prefer a specific tour time. Arriving early on the day of your visit is also a common strategy.
Crystal Lake Cave primarily offers guided tours of the cave complex. The gem and fossil mining area is a separate, interactive activity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave maintains a consistent temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 13 degrees Celsius) year-round. Borrowing jackets is recommended.
The guided tours at Crystal Lake Cave are approximately 1.5 to 2 hours long, allowing ample time to explore the formations and learn about the cave's geology.
Yes, Crystal Lake Cave is considered a great family experience. The well-lit paths and engaging tour guides make it enjoyable for children of various ages, including those as young as 4.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the constant 55°F temperature, wearing layers or bringing a jacket is highly recommended.
Photography is generally allowed inside Crystal Lake Cave, and many visitors capture the stunning formations. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and follow any specific instructions from your tour guide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Crystal Lake Cave has a gift shop, which may offer some snacks or drinks. However, for full meals, it's advisable to plan for dining before or after your visit in the surrounding areas.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the cave to maintain its pristine environment. Check with the staff upon arrival for specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is typically permitted inside Crystal Lake Cave. Visitors often share stunning photos of the cave's formations on social media.
The main crystal formation rooms and the underground lake are particularly photogenic. Your tour guide can often point out the most visually striking areas.
Information on tripod usage is not widely available. It's best to inquire with the cave staff upon arrival to ensure compliance with their photography guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Depths: Crystal Lake Cave Tours
One of the most striking features highlighted by visitors is the presence of an underground lake, adding an element of mystery and beauty to the experience.
Beyond the main cave tour, Crystal Lake Cave also offers a gem and fossil mining area, which is a particular hit with younger visitors. This interactive activity allows children to sift through sand and gravel to discover their own treasures, adding an extra layer of fun to the outing.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
For families, Crystal Lake Cave is a highly recommended destination. The tours are engaging for children, and the gem and fossil mining area provides an extra element of entertainment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit