Chemical dissolution and physical processes shape karst landscapes with myriad surface and subsurface features, including caves, springs, and sinkholes that make them important geologically. The increased exploration and utilization of karst landscapes in the past century heightened awareness of their importance as natural resources for economic, strategic, aesthetic, ecological and scientific values. However, protection of the complex and fragile karst landscapes in the developing world faces significant physical obstacles and management challenges under increasing anthropogenic pressures at many levels. In this article, the evolution, institutions, and instruments of karst management were examined by using historical analysis, social network analysis, and comparative study in China and America. We found that the national efforts in the two countries were highly variable, and there was little regional integration. Karst and cave management in China and Ameica have both gone through phases from initial less attention to more concerns. The focus and topics of management have transferred from karst hydrogeological issues to the integrated ecosystem problem, from single environmental issue to the complex social, economic, and ecological issues. The study methods have been developing from the traditional environmental survey and monitoring methods to the emerging technologies such as GIS, LIDAR, molecular biology, and environmental DNA. The management mode has transformed from a top-down command and control approach to a cooperative management model among government, social groups, and the public. Karst landscape direct legislation was often inadequate and enforcement was usually constrained by karst complexity and conflicting priorities. Here, we presented a karst management framework that could be followed at the state and local level. Four specifically recommendations with high priority are proposed to streamline comprehensive management. Our study serves as a link between managers, researchers, and the public. The article will bring a practical generality through the comparative karst management and sustainable development in other countries.