DeSoto Caverns

Located in Childersburg, Alabama, DeSoto Caverns is comprised of a series of caves at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Legend and lore runs deep at the caverns, as locals tell tales of the caverns various uses over the past centuries.DeSoto Caverns houses a Woodland Indian burial site, named “Copena,” uncovered by a team of archaeologists in 1965. Among the remains was the enormous jawbone, researchers believe to belong to a Native American over 7 feet tall. It is believed, the local native tribe found the cave to be a peaceful, protective environment to both guard and give rest to the souls of their departed.In more recent history, DeSoto Caverns served as hideout for party goers looking to avoid the United States strict “Prohibition” policy, banning the manufacture, sale and distribution of alcohol. The seclusion of the caves offered the perfect setting for moonshine operations, dance floors and gambling tables in which townspeople could cut loose during one of our nation’s most uptight times. The 1920′s saw stream of violence unfold under the caves’ dark cover. “The Bloody Bucket” as it came to be known was briefly shut down by the government, but was reopened in 1933 with the repeal of prohibition law.Today, DeSoto Caverns serves as tourist attraction and fun park, with themed games and exhibits, many either poking fun at or celebrating the caves’ rich and diverse history. Whether visitors want to pan for gemstones like the prospectors of old, try their hand at Native American bow and arrows or blaze their way through DeSoto’s Lost Trail Maze, family members of all ages will find an activity to catch their fancy. The caverns also houses traditional amusement park classics, including putt-putt, a go-kart track and paddle boats among many more. For both your Alabama history and family fun fix, DeSoto Caverns offers a great escape.

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