Missouri is known as the Cave State, and there’s a good reason for that. The state has more than 7,500 recorded caves, with some offering spectacular rock formations, fascinating history, and family adventures you won’t find above ground. From caves connected to Mark Twain and Jesse James to underground rivers and unusual geological wonders, there’s a lot more beneath Missouri’s surface than you might realize.

We’re talking with Toby Dogwiler about what makes Missouri’s caves so unique, which ones are worth exploring, and how you can plan your own underground adventure.