This cave was discovered in the Winter of 1819-1820 when a man named Jack Sims was hunting and his dog chased an animal into a small opening. A young man by the name of Samuel Clemens, (Mark Twain), explored the cave quite frequently and helped the cave gain worldwide fame in Mark Twain's stories as the cave where Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher were lost, and Injun Joe's buried treasure was hidden.
The Mark Twain Cave is also the oldest show cave in the state of Missouri, giving tours for over 114 years. The cave has also served as a place of hiding for Indians, trappers of animals for trade, the infamous Jesse James and slaves searching for freedom via the Underground Railroad.
One hour guided tours are offered.
Olivia's Gift Shop is accross the street from the cave.
