PENNSYLVANIA - Are you seeking an exciting outdoor adventure or simply a fun day with the family? Pennsylvania has plenty of amazing caves to explore! Crystal Cave in Berks County, for example, is open for tours while others require more searching. But no matter which caves you choose - whether Crystal or Secret Cavern - your exploration will be rewarded!
1. Indian Echo Caverns
Indian Echo Caverns, located beneath the Susquehannock Indians' former homes, offer visitors awe-inspiring geological marvels to behold. You'll encounter stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, cave corrals and crystal lakes during your 45-minute tour through these underground caverns. Don't forget to try your luck at Panning for Gems at Gem Mill Junction (Monday through early October)! Alternatively, you can search for fossils or pet friendly farm animals at The Petting Barn Yard.
2. Penn’s Cave
Penn's Cave, Pennsylvania's most beloved cave, features a quarter-mile subterranean waterway carved by time and nature. Here you'll find stunning limestone formations as well as an active bat colony. Experience this extraordinary Pennsylvania cave on a boat tour that traverses the waterway into an incredible world of ornate limestone formations, featuring iconic landmarks like "Statue of Liberty," "Garden of Gods," and "Angel's Wing."
3. Laurel Caverns
Farmington's Laurel Caverns are the largest cave in Pennsylvania both by volume and area. This privately owned and preserved cave lies beneath a 435 acre geological park. Laurel Caverns stands out among typical tourist caves due to its sculptured sandstone walls sculpted millions of years ago by wind currents. Visitors can explore this ancient cavern on a one-hour guided tour, go spelunking or pan for gemstones in Kavernputt - an entirely unique experience! Laurel Caverns is Pennsylvania's largest natural bat hibernaculum. To protect this population of bats, the cave remains closed to visitors during their primary months of hibernation (November through April).
4. Coral Caverns
Manns Choice Cave is a hidden treasure. To get there, you need to navigate your way through an unassuming small town; once inside though, you'll be delighted by what awaits. This cavern is owned and operated by a family-run business, making it an educational experience. You'll learn all about the stalactites, stalagmites, ribbons, formations that can be found here. The tour lasts around 30 minutes and you'll gain insight into what makes this cave unique.
5. Black-Coffey Caverns
Williamson Village, northwest of Greencastle, is home to Black-Coffey Caverns - an important cave system. After being closed off to visitors for decades, its owner recently reopened it to the public. After purchasing her house through a private sale in October 2020, Dara Black began inviting friends and family to explore. Tours take place roughly one weekend per month. Volunteers share the history and mineral deposits when groups descend into this cave, which averages 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Other than filling in some holes on the muddy floor, current owners have made few modifications to this ancient space.
6. Lost River Caverns
Are you searching for an unforgettable tourist attraction? Lost River Caverns is the perfect destination. This geological marvel consists of five cavern chambers filled with stunning crystal formations and fluorescent minerals. The cave also houses the Gilman Museum, featuring an array of rare minerals, gems, and antique weaponry. Visit the Jungle Garden to view various native plants and animals. There's even a waterfall and pond!
7. Lincoln Caverns
Lincoln Caverns in Huntington, Pennsylvania have been a beloved tourist destination since 1930. These caverns boast an array of cave formations such as flowstones, calcite and crystals. For 88 years, the Dunlavy family has owned this property and is passionate about educating visitors about caves and their importance. They offer tours of the cave as well as other activities. In addition, the caverns feature a gift shop, camping, panning for gemstones, nature trails and special events such as Santa in the Cave in December and Ghosts & Goblins tours in October.
8. Woodward Cave
If you're searching for an exciting cave experience, Woodward Cave in Centre County is one of Pennsylvania's largest. With five spacious rooms to explore, this cavern boasts plenty of adventure! Tours last approximately 50 minutes and the guides are knowledgeable and experienced. Visitors have the option of staying at either the nearby campground or renting a cabin.
