Bridal Cave is one of the natural wonders of the Lake of the Ozarks region. Take a guided tour to inspect the weirdly shaped formations inside the cave’s various chambers, which include spiky stalagmites, dripping stalactites, spindly soda straws and twisting columns.
The cave takes its name from an Osage Native American tale. Legends says that Wasena, daughter of Elkhorn, Chief of the Little Hills, was kidnapped and held here in the cave by Conwee, son of Chief Neongo of the Big Hills, who wanted to marry her. Wasena managed to escape the cave but Conwee pursued her. In an effort to elude his grasp, she jumped off the cliff to her death. Wasena’s friend, Irona, later married Conwee’s brother in this cave. If you have impending nuptials, consider booking a section of the cave for your wedding ceremony.
Follow a guide through the cave to see chambers full of striking mineral deposits. Your tour will go along concrete passageways that offer close-up views of the formations. As you visit each room, listen as your guide explains how the caves and the configurations were created. Try to spot the onyx formations that are so prevalent in this cave complex.
Normal tours last an hour and focus on the history, biology and geology of the cave. It’s possible to add on a gemstone mining experience. You will be given mining rough and will be taught how to pan for semi-precious minerals such as sapphires and emeralds. For an atmospheric treat, opt for a lantern tour and see the darkened cave as discoverers first found it before electric lighting was installed. Use a hand-held lantern to light the path as you make your way through the caverns.
Find Bridal Cave a few miles north of Camdenton. The cave is open daily year-round and admission fees apply. Bridal Cave remains at a consistent temperature of 60 F (16 C) year-round bring an extra layer of clothing in summer to stay warm.
