16,112 likes · 180 talking about this · 48,666 were here. Phone information (520) 586-4100. 273 reviews of Kartchner Caverns State Park "Unlike most cave parks in the world, the Kartchner caverns weren't discovered by humans until relatively recently, in 1974. You will definitely, want reservations at least during peak season for both the campground and the caverns tour. Located 9 miles south of Benson and 48 miles northwest of Tucson, this unique park features camping, cabins and trails in addition to its daily cave tours. 1,820 Reviews. The cave is developed in a downdropped block of Mississippian Escabrosa Limestone. Acreage: 921. 21. , year-round. Comfort Inn Benson Near Kartchner Caverns. (KSAZ) - It's been more than 40 years since Gary Tenan and Randy Tufts discovered Kartchner Caverns in 1974. Trail elevations range from 4750’ at the park trailhead to over 5620’ at the highest point along the Guindani Trail. Located in Benson, Arizona, Kartchner Caverns State Park is nestled into the foothills of the scenic Whetstone Mountains. 10 Best Back To School Gift Ideas For Kids In 2023. I think it is always @ 78. $72. Cabins are also available for rent. The Kartchner’s later. Fun things to do in Tucson with kids. 110. This natural wonder is a must-see. In November 1974, Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts were exploring the limestone hills at the eastern base of the Whetstone Mountains. America’s most historic Caverns. 74 mi) Down By The River Bed And Breakfast (8. Open today: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. s. We found a $4 off coupon in a brochure that we found on the caverns. Long hidden from view, the caverns were discovered in 1974 by local cavers, assisted by state biologist Erick. -6 p. With as much depth and colorful detail. Kartchner Caverns State Park: Amazing cavern - See 1,823 traveler reviews, 404 candid photos, and great deals for Benson, AZ, at Tripadvisor. Sales. Stay in the park and explore the cave! Campsite reservations are available online or by calling our friendly folks at the Arizona State Parks Reservations Desk at 1-877-MY PARKS (697-2757). 4 miles of accessible passages. Alex and Ani promo codes. 8) The Kartchner Caverns Have the World’s Longest Stalactites. The Throne Room includes the 58-foot-high Kubla Khan column (pictured) and a 21-foot, 3-inch soda straw stalactite. When co-discovers Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts found the blowhole entrance to the caverns in 1974 — beneath Kartchner Ranch, in the foothills of the Whetstone Mountains near Benson —. Kartchner Caverns State Park, 9 mi. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and an outdoor pool. You need to make reservations for the tour on line. Washington Street, Suite 100 Phoenix, AZ 85007 (877) MY-PARKS (877-697-2757) ONLINE RESERVATIONSThe San Pedro House serves as a visitor center and trailhead and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. A maternity colony of a species known as cave myotis lives there from approximately May through mid-September. written and photographed by Mary L. Phone: (602) 542-7152. com is currently on sale store-wide for a limited time. 2980 Arizona 90. Ever since I did the Rotunda/Throne Room Tour at Kartchner Caverns back in August of 2005, I've been dying to see what the Big Room Tour had to offer, as the latter is closed from April 15 to October 15 to accommodate a maternal bat colony. Sites vary in length from 35’ for. Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson, Arizona: 203 reviews, 124 photos, & 97 tips from fellow RVers. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south of Interstate 10, Benson, AZ 85602. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. According to AllTrails. Kartchner Caverns State Park’s campsites have a table, hose bib and power post. Campground Details: Price: $30; Number of sites: 58In the heart of Cochise County, Benson proudly calls itself home to the living caves of Kartchner Caverns State Park and the peaceful Holy. Details: 520-586-2283, azstateparks. You state you want a compelling reason as to why. 1,823 Reviews. Discount is good for day entry to parks only. Get Deal WebKartchner Caverns State Park Kartchner Caverns State Park 1,823 reviews #2 of 16 things to do in Benson State ParksCaverns & Caves Closed now 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Write a review About In November 1974,. Washington St. They were looking “for a cave no one had ever found” and found it. The caverns, discovered in 1974 by Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts, have since. Kartchner Caverns State Park. BENSON —Fewer people are visiting Kartchner Caverns. Kartchner Caverns State Park: Not Carlsbad, but see it anyway - See 1,820 traveler reviews, 402 candid photos, and great deals for Benson, AZ, at Tripadvisor. In November 1974, Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts were exploring the limestone hills at the eastern base of the Whetstone Mountains. Hwy 92, Hereford, AZ 85615 or call (520) 378-0311. Featuring Patagonia Lake State Park, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Tumacacori National Historical Park, Old Baldy National Recreation Trail Loop, Coronado National Memorial, Coronado National Forest, Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge, Kartchner Caverns. Nature & Parks, State Parks, Caverns & Caves. “It was in 1974 — 45 years ago — that Randy Tufts and Gary Tenen discovered the entrance to the. 22 Jun 2017. m. . This system works so well that the “lint party” held at Kartchner Caverns results in only a small ball of lint each year. Benson Visitor Center. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry. $1 Orbuck = $1. 3 mi • Est. 33 mi) Butterfield RV Resort & Observatory; View all hotels near Kartchner Caverns State Park on Tripadvisor Kartchner Caverns State Park. 8 Basic School Supplies For Back To School 2023: Must-have List. If a site becomes available you will receive an email notice. 4 miles). Camping & Cabins. 9 mi • Est. Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson, Arizona: 203 reviews, 124 photos, & 97 tips from fellow RVers. The San Pedro natural area is about 1 1/2 hour from Patagonia Lake and it is an ideal location for hiking and nature viewing, especially as a shady retreat during the warmer months. $3 off cave tours for Arizona residents. In order to get into the Kartchner Caverns, it will cost $7 a vehicle and $3 for bicycles and walk. Cochise County residents and active-duty military members get a $5 discount during that period. Kartchner Caverns State Park is a state park of Arizona, United States, featuring a show cave with 2. O. Next stop was Kartchner Caverns in Benson, Arizona. BENSON — On Saturday, hundreds of visitors explored a piece of living history at the 20th anniversary of Kartchner Caverns as a state park. Reservations are necessary and easy to make online on their. Kartchner Caverns State Park, Benson: "If you only have time for one cave tour, which is. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Cost: $94 per night, including $5 reservation fee. 699 N Ocotillo Rd, Benson, AZ. It is warm inside due to the 99% humidity. About 1,500 bats live in a part of Kartchner Caverns in southern Arizona. Learn more about some of the cave formations inside Kartchner Caverns. Spas & Luxury. Dec 14 - Dec 15. Click the button and enjoy get extra coupon when you purchase at Arizona State Parks online shop. Home • Schedule • Map • Concessions & Shopping • Festival Information. Address: 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602. Kartchner Caverns is in the Whetstone Mountains, ~13 km south of Benson, Arizona, USA, just west of Arizona State Highway 90. For additional distribution outlets, please contact the Southern Arizona Attractions Alliance at (520) 499-2662 or email info@TucsonAttractions. #2 of 16 things to do in Benson. Good bathrooms, sort of heated, nice hot shower. Details: Information, 520-586-4100; tour reservations. - 5 p. 38 km) Down By The River Bed And Breakfast (13. • Named after original property owners James and Lois Kartchner. Since then, the Park has hosted several such events per year and IT is increasingly. No. Open today: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. 16,112 likes · 180 talking about this · 48,666 were here. 5 miles, pretty easy and gives good vistas. Special offer. Kartchner Caverns State Park ® is a stunning limestone cavern system in Southeastern Arizona. 602-542-7389. For more information, contact: Sierra Vista Ranger District, 5990 W. Benson, AZ ANNUAL WEATHER AVERAGES VIEW PARKS &TRAIL MAPS CAVE TOURS CAMPING Kartchner Caverns State Park About Kartchner Caverns State Park Address 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, USA Phone +1 520-586-4100 Web Visit website Discovered in 1974, Kartchner Caverns is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful caves in the world. Location: Located in Cochise County, Arizona, USA, about 9 miles (14 km) south of the town of Benson and 50 miles southeast of Tucso n. This model should only be used as a probable scenario. There are three different campgrounds for lakeside camping as well as fishing, bird watching and water activities. 1,824 Reviews. In November of 1974 two local cavers were exploring around the base of the Whetstone Mountains when they noticed a narrow opening leading into the hillside. We were very early for our tour and asked if they had room in an earlier tour and they were able to accommodate us. About Kartchner Caverns State Park. Arizona time at 877-MY-PARKS (877-697-2757). 5 miles, rated moderate to difficult. Explore the sheer cliffs and granite domes of Cochise Stronghold, named for the famed Apache chief, and stop by Fort Bowie National Historic. The Campsite is beautiful in a way only the desert can be and Kartchner Caverns is breathtaking. Kartchner Caverns is a stunning limestone cave system considered one of the top ten in the world. They were looking “for a cave no one had ever found” and found it. The price is $72 per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15. Discover this 1. We're here to help you plan your visit to Kartchner Caverns seven days a week from 8 a. 00. Ask Patrick D about Kartchner Caverns State Park. The Magnitude of Kartchner Caverns State Park. The International Dark Sky Association has designated two Arizona state parks as Dark Sky Parks: Oracle State Park and Kartchner Caverns State Park. Driving to Kartchner Caverns is fairly quick, especially if you live in the Tucson area. - 4 p. Nature & Parks, State Parks, Caverns & Caves. m. m. There are two regular cavern tours at Kartchner Caverns State Park. Nature & Parks, State Parks, Caverns & Caves. Experience all the. Benson's New Day Spa. 7. 3489) Phone: 520-586-4100. This review is the subjective. Kartchner Caverns Cave Tour. With as much depth and colorful detail. Arizona time. Kartchner Caverns State Park. 9 km (2. Kartchner Caverns State Park connects the public with the wonders of a pristine underground world. A. m. Subscribe for $2. Located near the town of Benson, Kartchner Caverns offer an absolutely unique and stunning look into a subterranean world that is rarely seen, making them one of those must-see things to do on your trip to Pima and southern Arizona. Lake Havasu, AZ Home of the original London Bridge since 1971, featuring lake beaches,campsites, trails & a garden with wildlife. May 16 - December 21: Open daily, 9 a. About Kartchner Caverns State Park. Time Zone. 2 of 10 at RV LIFE Campground Reviews. Fees are based on one vehicle per campsite. Then the kids enjoyed the playground and yard games. com. Visit Kartchner Caverns State Park Source: Mike Lewis / Wikimedia Kartchner Caverns State Park. Find out how the network ofKartchner Caverns, Apple Annie’s, Willcox, Sierra Vista, Benson: All That Cochise County Has to Offer. Two-room camping cabins with a view of the Whetstone Mountains are available at Kartchner, right in the park. A microwave and refrigerator are also provided in each room. Additional vehicles are charged $15. Open today: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Taking visitors. Select Room. Website: Caverns: These caverns at the western base of the Whetstone Mountains were discovered in 1974 and their existence was kept secret for many years. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south of Interstate 10, Benson, AZ 85602. Kartchner Caverns State Park: Such an informative tour - See 1,822 traveler reviews, 402 candid photos, and great deals for Benson, AZ, at Tripadvisor. We're here to help you plan your visit to Kartchner Caverns seven days a week from 8 a. Kartchner Caverns is widely acknowledged as a beautiful example of carbonate cave development, is one of the top ten caves in the world in terms of mineralogical and cave formation diversity (Hill, 1999), and is a major tourist attraction in southern Arizona. (Given that it's underground, perhaps. 2 Thank Patrick D . Visitors Welcome! 1110 W. Phone information (520) 586-4100. It is home to a large colony of myotis velifer bats as well as countless microorganisms and macroinvertebrates. It is one of the top 10 caves in the world in terms of mineralogical diversity. Quality Inn Benson I-10 Exit 304. 12 Creative Back To School Gifts Ideas For Students. #2 of 16 things to do in Benson. Kartchner Caverns State Park, Benson, Arizona. 72 mi) Comfort Inn Benson Near Kartchner Caverns (8. – The Kartchner Caverns Tour is a guided tour of an underground cave system in Arizona. 1,823 Reviews. m. ) (You pay more for the microwave and mini fridge. Kartchner Caverns State Park is located about halfway between Benson, AZ and Sierra Vista, AZ. Kartchner Caverns State Park Information: Kartchner Caverns map: Kartchner. Kartchner Caverns State Park. Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings, and package your flight, hotel, and car to save even more. The first section is a little difficult to navigate but there are cairns to help find. Main Office. Weather Today Weather Hourly 14 Day Forecast Yesterday/Past Weather Climate (Averages) Currently: 69 °F. Standard Link for Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. Free Wifi . Kartchner Caverns State Park is known for its impressive limestone caverns featuring over 2. RESERVATIONS: Go to AZStateParks. 2. The stunning limestone caves of Kartchner Caverns, Arizona are a natural wonder. While it was near 100 degrees outside, the 99 % humidity and temperature in the 80's inside of the caverns actually made it more uncomfortable. Votes. m. Comfort Inn Benson Near Kartchner Caverns Promo Code・Hotel Net Rates and Promo Codes. Cavern tour tickets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased in person at the Florida Caverns Gift Shop from 9 a. Kartchner Caverns promo code & coupons. KARTCHNER CAVERNS, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) - The story of Kartchner Caverns is one of discovery, exploration, secrecy, and preservation. Discover this 1. Written May 1, 2022. Best Western Quail Hollow Inn features cable TV and a coffee maker in every guest room. 4-mile Foothills Loop (ask for a trail guide at the entrance booth), the 0. #2 of 16 things to do in Benson. Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Benson. In addition to the caves, the park has picnic and camping areas. On this trip we hiked the Foothills Loop trail which is approximately 3 miles long and is a moderately difficult trail. Time for a new day! Breakfast was easy, as we just walked over to the on-site cafe for a home-style cooked breakfast. It's. See All Photos. Stats for Kartchner Caverns - 7 nights with water and electric is $233, so $33 a night. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south of Interstate 10, Benson, AZ 85602. Compare 307 hotels near Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson using 11,383 real guest reviews. Reservations are necessary and easy to make online on their website. Nicely laid out park. Compared to other caverns, we'd rate Kartchner Caverns as a must see! Read more. Kartchner Caverns State Park. Pick One Up in Person — Stop by our Southern Arizona Heritage and Visitor Center located within the Historic Pima County Courthouse at 115 N, Church Ave. 134. 8. Apache Chief Cochise's stronghold is nearby. Reservations are necessary and easy to make online on their website. to 4 p. Length: ½ mile. 2 of 10 at RV LIFE Campground Reviews. Map layout by Bob Buecher. Kartchner Caverns State Park. Kartchner Caverns State Park. Kartchner Caverns is the second state park in Arizona with this honor; Oracle State Park received the designation in 2014. Reviewed this attraction. . Once they lost those 8 drill bits. 9 km) of passages. 9 km) of passages. Email This BlogThis!Kartchner Caverns are located about 15 minutes from Benson. Admission: $7 per vehicle, waived for those with tour tickets or campground reservations. Rigged with special equipment to protect the still-living caves, Kartchner Caverns opened in 1999 and has 2. We didn't have a reservation which I would recommend. m. Jeff Dexter was selected as the first Park Manager. Dom. 1,824 Reviews. #2 of 16 things to do in Benson. This tour is a half of a mile long and takes an hour and 45 minutes to complete one hour of which is underground. Kartchner Caverns State Park campground has 64 single-family sites with electric hookups and is located off the main road past the Discovery Center. 9, 2022 at 8:00 PM PDT. Nature & Parks, State Parks, Caverns & Caves. (You pay more for the microwave and mini fridge. Arizonans get $3 off the price of a cave tour through Oct. Then, fearing that the cave's fragile limestone formations. Nogales. My wife and I took part in both tours, but it was the Rotunda/Throne tour that led to my moment of shame. . Kartchner Caverns State Park. Kartchner is a wet, “live” cave. These areas are home to wildlife of all kinds, including various species of exciting and beautiful. Kartchner Caverns are located about 15 minutes from Benson. The caverns, discovered on. in case you can't find a place with the cards, the code is 'amazingcave15'. 4 helpful votes. The guided 1. Table 1. For caves such as Kartchner that are used for tourism, research is critically needed to. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south of Interstate 10, Benson, AZ 85602. How can you save on this tour? – You can save on this tour by using our exclusive promo code when booking your tickets. Kartchner Caverns Prices and Discounts. Katchner Caverns is one of the top 10 caves in the world. . Oct. Benson, Arizona 85602. Check our events page for dates and times. The Kartchner Caverns story is about amazing discoveries past, present, and future. Many other fossils have been discovered inside the caves and range from horse skulls dating back 36,000 years, extinct pronghorn antelope, and more recent animals like coyotes and rodents within about the last century. Kartchner is a beautiful cave because its carbonate speleothems are colorful (shades of red, orange, yellow and tan) and ‘alive’(still wet and growing). For Riordan Mansion State Historic Park (928) 779-4395. The cave tours are the amazing part. Pool . They were looking “for a cave no one had ever found” and found it. Kartchner Caverns is located in the Whetstone Mountains, ~13 km south of Benson, Arizona, USA, just west of Arizona State Highway 90. Kartchner Caverns State Park ® is a stunning limestone cavern system in Southeastern Arizona. m. WHAT: Cave Fest Celebration. Peachin. g lint) runs into a collection pool via the walkway curbs. , Suite 100. Subscribe for $3. Cave tours are approximately 75 minutes long, 45 minutes are underground. m. Phone reservations: (520)-586-2283. Lake Havasu State Park. 44. I also prefer the formations, particularly in the throne room. Buy five nights of camping and get two nights free: applies to everyone, regardless of residency or military! Enjoy a low-cost summer getaway in southeastern Arizona. Comfort Inn Benson near Kartchner Caverns. Kartchner Caverns State Park has not had an incident like this since it opened in Nov. thingpic. In order to get into the Kartchner Caverns, it will cost $7 a vehicle and $3 for bicycles and walk-ups. If tickets are canceled before 5:00 p. The Big Room, closed from mid-April to mid-October each. Lake Havasu State Park ~ Lake Havasu, AZ Kartchner Caverns State Park. Kartchner Caverns was voted the best cave in the United States in the 2016 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Kartchner Caverns State Park. 4. to 5 p. The two kept the cave a secret until February 1978 when they told the property owners, James and Lois Kartchner. 1: Kartchner Caverns - Benson, Ariz. 3. Mean Temp: 65 °F. m. Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson is rated 9. The seven best caves in Arizona . Hours & Pricing. Kartchner Caverns State Park. There is a $7 per car entry fee for the State Park. to 5 p. 4 miles long. The park has 23 permanent employees, 20 part-time, and about 80 - 100 volunteers. Details: Information, 520-586-4100; tour reservations. • Named after original property owners James and Lois Kartchner. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south of Interstate 10, Benson, AZ 85602. But this narrative offers a chance to go beyond the guidebooks with its revealing look at this unspoiled natural wonder and the science of cave conservation. We had heard we must stop and see these amazing caverns and they were right! The caverns are located inside of a state park with a campground. Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Back To School Supplies: 6 Tips To Save Money With Coupons. 4 helpful votes. One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. 334. We enjoyed our stay at Kartchner Caverns State Park. Kartchner Caverns State Park Overflow, Benson Arizona. The trail system inside Kartchner Caverns was developed specifically for people with limited mobility, however, know before you go to ensure that you have a great visit. Tunnels had to be created in order to allow safe and easy access. Take note, unlike other always-chilly caverns, Kartchner is quite warm, as it lies close to the surface. Address. 8366 lon:-110. They do not give a discount for the Golden Age pass. 4 Volunteer at Red Rock State Park! Red Rock State Park. Water percolates from the surface and calcite features continue to grow in the darkness. 2980 S Hwy 90, 9 miles south. Overview. 04 mi) Cochise Terrace RV Resort (9. 4 miles of passages. You need a reservation to take a tour of the Kartchner Caverns Caves and they can book months in advance. Neighborhood Off Ariz. The two wanted to discover a cave that “no one had ever found” and were successful in their endeavor. Fire start date: About 1 p. Visibility: 32 mi. 8. Take a guided cave tour to witness the breathtaking formations, including stalactites,. Days Inn by Wyndham Benson. Welcome to Kartchner Caverns State Park! We invite you to explore our world-famous cave as well as the above-ground park with its 62 campsites. Wonderful $15 off your entire order , When you use Arizona State Parks Coupons Enjoy big savings when you purchase on Arizona State Parks online shop and apply this coupon during check out, Save up to $15 Off. Welcome to the Willcox / Cochise KOA Holiday! Reserve Your Campsite Today! An easy 80-mile drive east of Tucson, this new KOA offers an idyllic high-desert getaway in the shadow of 10,720-foot Graham Peak. DEAL.