Caving - Illinois Caverns

I just called Illinois Caverns office and they're still open. (This may change at any time!) Illinois Caverns is located in Southwestern Illinois in Monroe County about 35 miles south of St. Louis. The entrance to the cave (which also has been known as Burksville Cave, Manmmoth cave of Illinois, Egyptian Cave and Eckert Cave) is located on a 9.25-acre tract which was purchased by the Department of Natural Resources in 1985. The process of cave formation involves the power of water over rock. The rocks that form the base of the Illinois Ozark, Shawnee Hills, and Mississippi Border Natural Divisions area the sort most susceptible to the forces of water. Millions of years ago huge shallow seas that covered much of this area deposited many layers of organic and carbonate sediments, forming the limestone and dolomite bedrock that dominate the region today. These types of rocks are easily dissolved and carried off by water, especially along the subterranean cracks or "joints" common to these sedimentary deposits. Over millenniums of time, the dissolving action of water along the subterranean cracks formed large water-filled conduits or underground streams. Meanwhile, erosion on the surface began to cut valleys into the surrounding countryside. As the surface valleys deepened, some of the underground passages were drained, creating the air-filled passages known as caves. During the cave-making process, water acts not only as a dissolver, but also as a builder. In the protected cave environment, dripping and seeping water can deposit carbonate materials and from a host of geological formations. Here's a link for more information: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/parks/R4/Ilc.htm What to bring: There is certain equipment that you must bring. - HARD HAT (you can use a bike helmet or buy one at Home Depot or Lowe's for about $7.00) - At least 3 lights plus extra batteries. Flashlights or headlamps will work, bonus points if they're waterproof. - Clothes you don't mind getting wet and dirty - Boots (hiking boots that provide ankle support, etc.) NO TENNIS SHOES - Clothes and shoes to change into after leaving the cave (you'll be wet and dirty) - Trash bag (to put you wet and dirty stuff in) - Water or hydration pack (You probably don't want to drink the water in the cave) Optional: - Knee pads in case you want to do some crawling through tight spaces. -Camera if it's waterproof or you have a dry bag for it. The park opens at 8:30 and I think it takes about 30 minutes to get there from the JB bridge. Try to carpool if possible. We'll be splitting into two groups and the second group will be going into the cave about 20-30 minutes after the first group. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.