Should you go?
Peacock Springs holds one of the longest underwater cave systems in the continental United States — more than 33,000 feet of mapped passage — and it is the training ground where a large share of the world's cave divers earned their certifications.
Above water it is quiet and unassuming: a small park with two major springs and several sinkholes under hardwood forest. Non-divers can swim at Peacock I, but this is fundamentally a diver's park.
Visiting
Entry is $4 per vehicle (verified). Wes Skiles Peacock Springs holds one of the longest underwater cave systems in the country — over 33,000 feet mapped. The Orange Grove Sink allows open-water diving for all levels, but the Peacock I and Peacock III entrances require proof of cavern or cave certification. No DPVs (diver propulsion vehicles) and no solo diving are allowed anywhere in the system. Non-divers can swim at the designated area at Peacock I, but this is fundamentally a cave-diver's park with minimal facilities — no concessions. <strong>For scuba:</strong> One of the longest underwater cave systems in the country — over 33,000 feet of mapped passage, and the training ground where much of the world's cave-diving certification happens. Non-divers genuinely have something here too: an award-winning interpretive nature trail traces the path of the underwater cave system beneath your feet, with markers explaining the passages you're walking directly above — a clever way to experience what the divers see without getting in the water at all. Entry is $4/vehicle on the honor system (correct change required). Wes Skiles, the park's namesake, was a world-class explorer and cinematographer who died in an open-water diving accident in 2010, not in these caves.
When to go
Weekday mornings for divers seeking parking near Orange Grove. Non-divers will find little to do here.
Local tips
Bring your own snorkel, fins, and a life jacket even if you're not diving — the water rewards underwater viewing, and without a flotation aid you'll tire quickly just staying afloat to look. Facilities here are genuinely basic — a portable toilet at Peacock 1, a compost toilet at Orange Grove — so plan accordingly, especially with kids.
Rules & restrictions
Cave certification is verified and enforced. Untrained divers have died in these systems. Swimming is limited to the designated area at Peacock I. Dogs are welcome on a 6-foot handheld leash. Dives must conclude one hour before sundown, and solo diving is prohibited.
Good to know
Dogs: Park yes, not in water. Season: Year-round.
Facilities
Basic restrooms, parking areas at the main sinks, and interpretive signs. No concessions, no rentals, no camping. Grills and picnic areas round out the amenities, along with ample parking including RV space.
Wildlife you may see
Little visible above water beyond woodland birds and turtles — the park's significance is entirely below the surface.
History & background
Named for the Peacock family who farmed the land, the park was renamed in 2012 for Wes Skiles, the pioneering cave diver and cinematographer who filmed here and died in 2010.
Map & directions
FAQs
Do you need cave certification at Peacock Springs?
Yes u2014 the cave systems are restricted to fully cave-certified divers, and the park verifies credentials. This is not a cavern site for open-water divers.
Can you swim at Peacock Springs?
Yes, in the designated area at Peacock I, though the park is primarily oriented toward cave diving.
How long is the Peacock cave system?
More than 33,000 feet of mapped underwater passage, making it one of the longest in the United States.
Is Peacock Springs good for non-divers?
There's an award-winning nature trail that traces the cave system beneath your feet with interpretive markers, plus swimming allowed at Peacock 1 and Orange Grove Sink u2014 but facilities are basic and this is fundamentally a diver's park.
What bathroom facilities does Peacock Springs have?
Basic u2014 a portable toilet at Peacock 1 and a compost toilet at Orange Grove. Plan accordingly, especially with young kids.
Are dogs allowed at Peacock Springs?
Yes, on a 6-foot handheld leash.
Visitor photos
See this week’s shots: Instagram #peacocksprings · TikTok #peacocksprings
Great for: Scuba Diving · Swimming
