Alabaster Caverns State Park

Alabaster Caverns State Park in northwestern Oklahoma protects one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world open to public tours. The cave formed in soft gypsum rather than the limestone more commonly associated with cavern systems, giving it unusual geology and coloration. Guided tours lead through underground passages where visitors can see gypsum formations, mineral deposits and evidence of the cave's development. The temperature remains much cooler than outside during summer, making the contrast especially noticeable in hot weather. The park also contains surface trails, camping and opportunities for permitted wild-caving experiences under specific rules. Bat habitat is an important conservation concern, so some areas and activities may be seasonally restricted. The surrounding Gypsum Hills add context: the same regional geology that creates red bluffs and exposed gypsum at the surface also produced the cave below. Alabaster Caverns is one of Oklahoma's strongest geology destinations because visitors can experience that story both above and underground.