The park's caves have a long and interesting geologic history beginning about 38 million years ago when sea levels were much higher and the southeastern coastal plain of the United States was submerged. Shells, coral and sediments gradually accumulated on the sea floor. As sea levels fell, these materials hardened into limestone. During the last million years, acidic groundwater dissolved crevices just below the surface creating cave passages large enough to walk through.
Dazzling stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone and other fragile cave-drip formations were by a similar dissolving process by the naturally acidic rainwater. In many rooms and hallways, the stalactites and stalagmites have joined to form full columns. Glistening draperies, soda straws, and ribbons complement the proliferation of stalactites and stalagmites, creating a distinct living environment for the cave-dwelling flora and fauna.
Interpretation is a large part of the Florida Park Service's goal to educate and preserve the natural and cultural aspects of each park. At Florida Caverns State Park, rangers have been interpreting features for more than 65 years. The cave is a great opportunity for visitors to see the geology of the area. By exploring the subterranean system with a knowledgeable tour guide, visitors can see many cave formations. The guide will explain how a cave is formed and how it changes gradually through time with water acting as its architect. Fossils are abundant within the cave system. The cave has a nautilus, shark tooth, tube coral, shells and fish vertebrae that are all visible while traversing the rooms at an average of 25 feet below the surface of the ground.