For more than 10,000 years, Russell Cave was home to prehistoric peoples. Russell Cave provides clues to the daily life ways of early North American inhabitants dating from 6500 B.C. to 1650 A.D. The cave shelter archaeological site contains the most complete record of prehistoric cultures in the Southeast. 

Russell Cave is the only national monument in Alabama. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the cave shelter, or experienced spelunkers can apply for a permit to explore the big cave.

Russell Cave National Monument is open year round, seven days a week, with the exception of New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Hours of operation are 8:00 - 4:30 CST.

For more information visit http://www.nps.gov/ruca/