Russell Cave National Monument
Russell Cave National Monument
Russell Cave is located in Jackson County Alabama just south of the Tennessee state line
Russell Cave National Monument offers a great short outdoor adventure for the family vacation. Learn about the various Indians that frequented this cave shelter and the tools they used. There are also opportunities for hiking and Indian flute demonstrations. Continue reading for further Russell Cave National Monument information.
Uniqueness
For thousands of years bands of prehistoric Indians came to the area we know today as Russell Cave. The cave provided a shelter. The surrounding forest provided food, tools, and fuel for their fires.
Occupation of the cave shelter continued from the earliest known people to inhabit the southeastern United States, until the time of European explorers. The story of the inhabitants of Russell Cave is one of adaptation and survival. These people left behind clues to their way of life. These clues help us to have a better understanding of the people who have gone through the mists of time.
Gilbert H. Grosvenor Visitor Center is open all year 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. It is closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. The park may also be closed without advanced notice due to severe weather. Movies are shown throughout the day and they have Pre-historic Native American artifacts on display showing the history of Russell Cave. The Visitor Center, museum and cave shelter are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs are available on request. There is a wheel chair accessible walkway that will take you to the cave shelter. It is an easy walk for most visitors with a distance of about 200 yards one way.
A 1.2 mile hiking and nature trail is available. The trails can be steep at a few locations and require moderate effort to complete. We also have a junior ranger program which kids learn about the cave, and receive a junior ranger badge and certificate when they are done. Ranger demonstrations are conducted throughout the day (when staff is available) on Native American tools, weapons, and ways of life. Demonstrations of American Indian flutes and flute music are available.
Summers are generally hot and humid. Winters are generally mild. Wear light weight cool clothing in summer, sunscreen, wide brimmed hat, sensible shoes, and drink plenty of water.
There are no fees for this park.
Chattanooga, TN has the nearest airport and car rental facilities. Chattanooga, TN is approximately 38 miles from Russell Cave.
The park is located 5 miles west of U.S. Hwy. 72. From U.S. Hwy 72 follow county road 75 north 1 mile to county road 98, then follow county road 98 north 4 miles to the park entrance.
Approximate Mileage from the following major cities to Russell Cave National Monument:
By Car:
Chattanooga, TN – 41.61 miles
Huntsville, AL – 69.38 miles
Nashville, TN – 119 miles
Decatur, AL – 93.66 miles
Birmingham, AL – 165.19 miles
By Plane:
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport – 52.33 miles
Russell Cave National Monument, 3729 County Road 98, Bridgeport, AL 35740
Visitor Information (256) 495-2672
Fax (256) 495-9220
