The Natural Bridge Caverns are the largest known commercial caverns in the U.S. state of Texas. The name is derived from the 60 ft natural limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater setting of the cavern’s entrance. The span was left suspended when a sinkhole collapsed below it. The caverns are located near San Antonio, Texas, in the Texas Hill Country next to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, a drive-through wildlife safari park. The caverns feature several unique speleothems and other geological formations. The temperature inside the cave is 21 degrees Celsius (70°F) year-round, and the humidity rate is a constant 99 percent. The deepest part of the public tour is 180 feet below the surface, although undeveloped areas of the cavern reach depths of 230 feet.
The caverns are still slowly developing. Due to the porosity of the limestone, rainwater travels downwards through the layers of rock, where it dissolves out calcite. This weak mineral makes up all of the speleothems at Natural Bridge Caverns. After exiting the limestone, water enters the caverns and drips constantly throughout, causing the formations to retain a waxy luster that can be seen in a few caverns.
On March 27, 1960, the caverns were discovered by students Orion Knox Jr., Preston Knodell Jr., Al Brandt, and Joe Cantu from St. Mary’s University in nearby San Antonio. On their fourth trip into the caverns, the men discovered/explored just over a mile of passage. Subsequent explorations revealed 2 miles associated with what became known as the “North Cavern.”
After discovery, Orion Knox Jr. assisted the landowners in obtaining information and suggestions for development. Mrs. Clara Wuest (the landowner) wanted to show the cave under her property.
Wildlife
There is recent evidence of bats residing in Natural Bridge Caverns, including roosting areas and accumulation of bat guano. Near Natural Bridge Caverns, Bracken Cave is home to one of two large bat colonies in Texas. The bats that inhabit Bracken Cave are a small species called Mexican free-tailed bats. Bats control the insect population, help to pollinate plants, and are a food source for other animals, making them a valuable part of the ecosystem. The cave focused on a 2013 episode of the syndicated anthology television series, Texas Country Reporter, hosted by Bob Phillips. EZ Bed Bug Exterminator San Antonio
Restaurants and Pubs
- blueprint Smokehouse is located at 17630 Lookout Rd, Selma, TX
- Siam Cuisine is located at 6032 FM3009 #170, San Antonio, TX
- Anchor Bar is located at 3900 FM3009 #101, Schertz, TX
Check out other attractions like San Antonio Botanical Garden