From Explosions to Exploration: Caverns of Starr’s Cave
While summer hasn’t officially arrived yet, here at Des Moines County Conservation, we’re gearing up for the start of our much-anticipated summer camps. One of the highlights for many campers is exploring the caverns at Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve.Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
Returning visitors may already be aware that Starr’s Cave has been closed to the public for more than ten years. This is due to the presence of white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that poses a serious threat to bat populations. To help protect these important animals, access to the cave is restricted. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of adventure to be had! The park is home to two unique man-made caverns that are open year-round and waiting to be explored.
Back in the early 1920s, mineral prospectors believed the limestone bluffs at Starr’s Cave might be hiding deposits of zinc. In their search, they used dynamite to blast into the hillsides, hoping to strike it rich. They never found any zinc, but they unintentionally created something just as interesting—two caverns that now serve as hidden gems for park explorers.
Both caverns, Crinoid Cavern and Devil’s Kitchen, make for a fun summer outing. Of the two, Crinoid Cavern is more accessible. It’s located about half a mile from the nature center, along a mostly flat trail that follows Flint Creek. To find it, take the path that runs under the bridge near Starr’s Cave and keep an eye out for the cavern entrance on your left.
While the walk to Crinoid Cavern is generally easy in dry conditions, entering the cavern requires a short uphill climb over rocks. The slope can be muddy and slick after rain, so sturdy shoes and a cautious pace are recommended. Inside, you'll discover a small rock chamber with fossils embedded in the limestone walls. These remains are from crinoids—sea creatures that lived about 350 million years ago, when Iowa was covered by a shallow sea. Though they resembled underwater flowers, crinoids were animals anchored to the seafloor, catching food with their feathery arms. The fossilized stalks of these animals, often appearing like little stone cheerios, are scattered throughout the cavern if you look closely. For a clearer view of complete crinoid fossils, visit the Historical Society Museum in downtown Burlington. Keep in mind that Crinoid Cavern has only one way in and out, and many visitors find the climb out a bit more challenging than the way in, take your time and watch your footing.
The other cavern, Devil’s Kitchen, offers a different kind of adventure. Also, about half a mile out and back—from the overlook trail off Irish Ridge Road—the trail to it is narrower and more rugged. It winds along the edge of a bluff, making it better suited for confident walkers. Devil’s Kitchen can also be reached by crossing Flint Creek just past the bridge to Starr’s Cave. On the far side, you’ll find a wooden board and rope to help you up the bank, where a trail leads directly to the cavern. If the creek is high or you’d prefer to avoid getting your feet wet, the overlook trail is a great alternative. Unlike Crinoid Cavern, Devil’s Kitchen has two entrances and exits, giving it a more open feel and a bit more room to explore.
With sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure, you'll enjoy exploring these one-of-a-kind caverns! Not sure which way to go? Stop by the nature center for guidance or snap a photo of the trail map at the kiosk before you hit the trail.
Journey into the caverns of Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve this summer!
published Monday, June 9, 2025
