Cascade Cavern
Boerne, Kendall County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Probably formed during the Pleistocene epoch by the underground passage of the Cibolo River, Cascade Cavern presents an interesting mix of geological, archeological, and historical features. It exhibits a combination of the joint and the dip and strike types of caverns, and is the home of a number of unusual animals, including cliff and leopard frogs, Mexican brown bats, and Cascade Cavern salamanders. Archeological evidence uncovered near the cave indicates the presence of two Indian sites. It is probable that the Indians used the cave for shelter, and soot found on the sides of a natural chimney suggests that they had fires. Commercial development of the cave, known earlier as Hester's Cave, began in the 1930s. The current name, taken from the seven waterfalls at the entrance to the cathedral room, officially was adopted in a 1932 ceremony led by State Attorney General, and later Governor of Texas, James V. Allred. Over the years, Cascade Cavern has provided visitors and Boerne area residents with many opportunities for recreation and exploration, and it remains one of the state's important geological sites. (1984)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Likely carved during the Pleistocene by the underground Cibolo River, Cascade Cavern near Boerne holds a rich mix of geology, wildlife, and human history. Archeological evidence points to two Indian sites, and soot on a natural chimney suggests Native peoples once sheltered and built fires within. Commercially developed from the 1930s and renamed in a 1932 ceremony led by future governor James V. Allred, the cave long drew visitors to its seven waterfalls.
Why it matters
The cavern connects deep geological time to Native American use and the rise of twentieth-century roadside tourism, a layered site where nature and Texas history meet underground.
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Related people
- · James V. Allred
Themes & tags
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