19 Best Caves in the US for Incredible Underground Adventures

When planning your next big adventure across the U.S., the options for stunning destinations are numerous. Some might even say "the sky's the limit," but any stargazer or mountain climber would disagree: there's truly no limit on what can be explored in our beautiful country, especially when you start looking underground.

From frozen waterfalls and dreamy hot springs to manmade wonders and captivating castles, opportunities abound for epic exploration. There's even opportunity right beneath our feet—caverns and caves create some of the most incredible underworlds known to mankind, many of which go overlooked.

In fact, here are 19 wondrous caves in the U.S. that, in our opinion, are must-sees for any traveler or adventure-seeker. Whether you're searching for bewitching limestone caves, expansive cavern systems, or stunning slot canyons, you'll find no shortage of incredible adventures underfoot. Come explore the last frontier, and descend into some of the best caves in the U.S.

National Park Caves in the US

Our national parks hold many hidden wonders. While the views on the surface tend to draw the most attention, there are numerous marvels below ground as well. Grab your America the Beautiful Pass and explore one of these stunning national park caves for a spectacular adventure you won’t soon forget.

1. Lava Beds National Monument - California

• Address: 1 Indian Well, Tulelake, CA 96134
• What It’s Known For: Formed by the movement of volcanic lava
• Where to Stay Nearby: Century Cottage on a Working Farm in Klamath Falls, Oregon

One of the most remarkable places in the country, Lava Beds National Monument, will challenge your very definition of a "cave." This incredible natural landmark in California was formed by the movement of volcanic lava over the earth’s surface a half million years ago, resulting in a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features above ground, and more than 800 caves below ground.

Additionally, the park is geologically outstanding because of its great variety of "textbook" volcanic formations, including fumaroles, cinder cones, spatter cones, pit craters, hornitos, maars, volcanic fields, and lava tube caves. There are 25 lava tubes in this national park, open to adventurers for tours and exploration. Come and revel in this glorious underworld that's 500,000 years in the making.

2. Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve - Oregon

• Address: 19000 Caves Hwy, Cave Junction, OR 97523
• What It’s Known For: Complex marble cave systems, plus rare animals and plants.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Yurt near Grants Pass, Oregon

Deep within Oregon’s mysterious Siskiyou Mountains are dark, twisting passageways just waiting to be explored. Oregon Caves National Monument is the culmination of eons of acidic water seeping into marble rock, which ultimately created one of the state’s grandest natural wonders.

Over millions of years, the steady dissolution of rock by acidic water led to an extensive marble cave—one which you have to see in person to fully appreciate. Known as the "Marble Halls of Oregon," the Oregon Caves are a stunning spectacle that absolutely belongs on your bucket list. Even better? You can take a tour and explore both the mountain and cavern—from the inside out! The NPS offers a variety of cave tours at Oregon Caves to delight and wonder, from kid-friendly excursions to old-fashioned candlelight cave tours. 

3. Wind Cave National Park - South Dakota

• Address: Custer County, South Dakota
• What It’s Known For: One of the first national parks in the country.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Log Cabin in Custer, South Dakota

Wind Cave is located in the eponymous national park near Hot Springs, South Dakota. Established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Wind Cave National Park is one of the first national parks in the country and the first ever to protect a cave system. Boasting 33,847 acres, Wind Cave National Park features a complex cave system dating back millions of years, a rich Native American history, and abundant wildlife.

Billed as the sixth-longest cave in the world (at 140 miles), Wind Cave is also considered to be the densest and is home to approximately 95 percent of the world's discovered boxwork formations. These boxwood formations are an extremely rare feature. This striking geographic phenomenon is composed of delicate fins of calcite that form a honeycomb pattern along the ceilings and walls. They tend to intersect, forming an intricate display of boxes.

Superlatives aside, Wind Cave National Park is breathtakingly beautiful; it's truly a must-visit place for all adventure-seekers.

4. Jewel Cave National Monument - South Dakota

• Address: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730
• What It’s Known For: The third-longest cave in the world
• Where to Stay Nearby: Fire Lookout Tower Next to Custer

Proving that South Dakota is so much more than just its prestigious presidential monolith, Jewel Cave National Monument is, quite simply, sublime. As its name suggests, Jewel Cave is truly a wondrous hidden gem; it's billed as the broadest and deepest cave in South Dakota, and, with 200+ miles of mapped passageways, it's considered the third-largest cave in the world. Offered daily, the Scenic Tour lasts 90 minutes and gives visitors the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the cave's calcite-adorned chambers up close.

Jewel Cave ranks as one of the world’s longest caves, but when it was first discovered, no one had any idea of its scope. Found by a pair of brothers, the two gold prospects first attempted to mine the cave before opening the cave to tours, which were eventually taken over by the NPS. Thought to only be 2 miles deep, it wasn't until 1959 that more of the cave was mapped out, with 65 miles being explored over the next 30 years. Even today, it is estimated that only 3% to 5% of Jewel Cave is known to us, with some 5,000-7,000 miles left unexplored.

Well-Known Caves in the US

Looking to examine some of the United States' most famous caves? These underground wonderlands certainly live up to their reputation. Check out these acclaimed caves, world-famous for their breathtaking caverns, glorious grottos, and majestic geography. 

5. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park - Montana

• Address: 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Rd. Whitehall MT 59759
• What It’s Known For: Spiral staircases throughout, plus glowing neon lights.
• Where to Stay Nearby: The Hideaway at Creekside Meadows - Hobbit House in Clancy

Montana might be known as "Big Sky Country," but there's a massive underworld in the state that commands attention, too. The Lewis and Clark Caverns in Whitehall, Montana, are among the largest limestone caves in the Northwest United States, named after the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, which camped within sight of the caverns in 1805.

The caves are known for their otherworldly limestone formations formed millions of years ago, with a dazzling array of stalactites, stalagmites, and columns protruding from the cavern walls and ceiling. The 3,000-acre park offers not just cave tours, but also beautiful scenery and a campground, making this an amazing destination for your next bucket-list adventure.

6. Antelope Canyon - Arizona

• Address: Southeast of Page, AZ
• What It’s Known For: Two unique slot canyons with stunning geography
• Where to Stay Nearby: The Clizzie Hogan, Marble Canyon

Arizona's Antelope Canyon defies definition; this gorgeous canyon is unlike many others that dot our remarkable country, as it's a slot canyon with tall sandstone walls, unique natural designs, and a palette of warm, rich colors. Antelope Canyon is located on land belonging to the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, and luckily for us, the Navajo Nation has been generous enough to open this sacred site to visitors who travel through with permitted guides. If you are looking for an adventure that makes you feel like you are in a different world, Antelope Canyon in Arizona deserves a top spot on your bucket list.

7. Carlsbad Caverns - New Mexico

• Address: Carlsbad, NM 88220
• What It’s Known For: Unique size, origin, diversity, and decorative rock formations.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Shipping Container in Carlsbad

Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico might be the most beautiful place in the entire country. Located 20 miles outside of the city of Carlsbad, this extraordinary natural wonder is a limestone cave that was once part of an underwater reef in an inland sea. Put in perspective, the body of water that formed the cavern was on the earth 250 to 280 million years ago.

Today, visitors can explore this otherworldly expanse on two trails: The Big Room and Natural Entrance. We're partial to the former; it's the largest single cave chamber in the U.S. and features stunning formations, including the fabled Sword of Damocles. While you’re in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, consider checking out the Bat Flight Program as well. This free event, available from April through October, allows you to watch the bats begin their sunset flight, preceded by an educational talk about these fascinating creatures.

8. Ruby Falls - Tennessee

• Address: Scenic Hwy., Chattanooga, Tennessee
• What It’s Known For: An underground waterfall discovered back in 1928.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Treehouse in Trenton

Some places really take you by surprise, immersing you in an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. You forget where you are and are just completely in the moment. Ruby Falls in Tennessee is one of those places. Ruby Falls isn’t so much an attraction as it is an experience. Sure, Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. And the mountain's direct overhead position offers some of the most spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley, Cumberland Plateau, and Tennessee River—not to mention epic outdoor recreation. But Ruby Falls is so much more than numbers or bullet points. It’s one of the most magical places you’ll ever visit.

9. Natural Bridge Caverns - Texas

• Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
• What It’s Known For: The biggest commercial cave system in Texas
• Where to Stay Nearby: A-Frame home in Canyon Lake, Texas

Natural Bridge Caverns certainly lives up to the "everything's bigger in Texas" mantra; this jaw-dropping, two-mile cavern is a wondrous world unto itself. Discovered in 1960 by an intrepid group of college students, Natural Bridge Caverns were opened to the public in 1964 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This glistening limestone grotto looks like something from another world, offering a glimpse of what the Texas hill country landscape once looked like.

Today, visitors can experience this underworld firsthand through one of the park's myriad guided tours. Curious explorers should check out the Hidden Wonders Tour—this 70-minute excursion showcases the intricate "cave ribbons" and "soda straw" structures for which Natural Bridge Caverns is best known. A portion of this experience takes place in pure darkness, too, making for a thrilling experience that belongs on any adventurer's bucket list.

10. Mammoth Cave - Kentucky

• Address: 1 Visitor Center Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
• What It’s Known For: It’s the longest-known cave system in the United States—and the world!
• Where to Stay Nearby: Tranquil Cottage in Mammoth Cave

Within the rolling hills of west-central Kentucky, nestled on the edge of America's Southern Appalachian Region, lies an underground world millions of years in the making. Mammoth Cave is one of the greatest wonders in the country—and the world. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981, this massive cavern system spans some 400 miles of underground caverns and passageways, with more miles being added all the time.

In fact, Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave recently grew a little longer after the discovery of an additional eight miles of passages by the Cave Research Foundation. One of the longest-known cave systems in the world, Mammoth Cave offers a variety of Ranger-led tours and seasonal experiences. Visitors to this stunning cavern system can take a number of cave tours, from a fully wheelchair accessible tour to adventurous, off-trail crawling tours. Easily the most famous cave in the country, Mammoth Cave is a must-see on your bucket list.

11. Meramec Caverns - Missouri

• Address: 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO 63080
• What It’s Known For: It’s the largest commercial cave in Missouri
• Where to Stay Nearby: Log Cabin in Bourbon, Missouri

Meramec Caverns attracts upwards of 150,000 visitors from all over the globe each year, and it's not difficult to see why. The limestone caverns, which date back an estimated 400 million years, boast an impressive history, including serving as Jesse James's hideout while he was on the run from the law. Billed as the "Greatest Show Under The Earth," guided tours last 1.5 hours and offer an up-close view of these legendary caves and tunnels.

Along the way, you'll discover a wealth of picture-perfect moments as your seasoned tour guides share insights into the rich history of the limestone caverns. But the fun doesn't stop there; Meramec Caverns is home to an abundance of aboveground adventures, too, making it an amazing destination sure to check several items off your bucket list.

Little-Known Caves in the US

Searching for a subterranean hidden gem? The United States holds plenty of caves free from the crowds. Discover these lesser-known caves across the United States, perfect for adventurous explorers. 

12. Howe Cavern - New York

• Address: 255 Discovery Drive · Howes Cave, NY 12092
• What It’s Known For: A unique above-ground cavern system dating back to the 1840s.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Yurt in Pattersonville, New York

In a state that's world-renowned for its above-ground attractions and metropolises, Howe Cavern is quite literally an outlier—a wondrous, marvelous outlier. It's one of the most unique natural attractions you'll ever explore in the Empire State and the country. The caves were first discovered in 1842 after local farmer Lester Howe noticed his cows were repeatedly making their way towards a dark opening in the ground. In the years since, the cavern has become a popular destination for adventure seekers.

The Traditional Cave Tour not only offers guests an extensive exploration of one of the deepest destinations in the Northeast, but the experience culminates in the deepest boat ride in New York. This epic tour takes guests through an extensive underground cave system that culminates in a subterranean body of water: the marvelous Lake Venus. Now this truly is an awe-inspiring experience for your bucket list.

13. Luray Caverns - Virginia

• Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835
• What It’s Known For: The enormous calcite formations scattered throughout the caverns
• Where to Stay Nearby: Underground Hobbit House in nearby Broadway, Virginia

Virginia's Shenandoah Valley is a place of incredible beauty, with its rolling mountains and lush landscape. But the beauty here isn't just skin deep; beneath the valley, an otherworldly land awaits. Luray Caverns is one of the most fascinating natural areas in the country, transporting visitors to an underground world of both bizarre and beautiful rock formations. The commercial cave was discovered by accident in 1878 and continues to awe travelers and explorers to this day.

The enormous site is one of the many treasures of the Shenandoah Valley and comprises several "rooms," each with unique features. One particularly mesmerizing attraction is the Wishing Well—a teal-colored pool of water that has collected coins from fanciful visitors since the 1950s. Dream Lake is another popular site that doubles as an optical illusion; despite its seemingly endless depth, the pool is only about 18 inches deep! Luray Caverns is a trip down a wondrous, real-life rabbit hole that you won't ever forget.

14. Ohio Caverns - Ohio

• Address: 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357
• What It’s Known For: America’s most colorful caverns
• Where to Stay Nearby: Yurt in Zanesfield, Ohio

Did you know that underneath fields of farmland in southeastern Ohio lies an enchanted natural world that began forming millions of years ago? The Ohio Caverns are quite literally one of the Midwest's most glorious—and colorful—hidden gems, offering an epic underground adventure for explorers of all ages. Depending on the season, different guided tours are offered, each offering a unique experience of these extensive caves.

For guests with limited mobility (or younger families), Ohio Caverns offers a seasonal Limestone Tour with advanced reservations, making this incredible underground cavern system accessible to everyone.

15. Niagara Cave - Minnesota

• Address: 29842 Co Rd 30, Harmony, MN 55939
• What It’s Known For: It's one of only two publicly accessible caves in Minnesota, discovered back in 1924.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Harmony Lighthouse Home

Niagara Cave might have its namesake beat, as this Minnesota wonder features not only an immense underground cavern system, but also a subterranean waterfall. This cave was discovered in 1924 and opened for tours a decade later. Niagara Cave is one of only two caves that you can officially visit in Minnesota, making it all the more rare and special. This is a lovely limestone cave carved by water over millions of years, and on a tour, you'll find yourself in a passageway that truly feels like something out of a sci-fi film.

16. Majestic Caverns - Alabama

• Address: 5181 Desoto Caverns Pkwy, Childersburg, AL 35044
• What It’s Known For: One of the most concentrated combinations of onyx-marble stalactites and stalagmites in the U.S.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Storybook Cottage in Sylacauga, Alabama

Alabama has one of the highest cave densities in the world, with its expansive subterranean playgrounds attracting some of the world's top climbers. In fact, cavers travel from all over the globe to explore the state's spectacular caves. One cave that remains at the top of most cave enthusiasts' bucket lists is Majestic Caverns, formerly known as DeSoto Caverns. Located at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains in Childersburg, Alabama, Majestic Caverns is one of the most unexpected treasures.

Believed to be America's first recorded cave, these caverns are full of immense beauty, with the "Great Onyx Cathedral" as just one of its many hidden treasures. This "cathedral" is actually a room at Majestic Caverns that's longer than a football field and 12 stories high. Its grandeur cannot be contained in a picture; this is simply a place you must experience for yourself.

Unique Caves in the US

Still haven’t found an underground chamber that speaks to you? Perhaps you’d prefer a cavern unlike any you’ve seen before. Take a peek at these one-of-a-kind caves filled with unique features and striking sights. 

17. Moaning Caverns - California

• Address: 5350 Moaning Cave Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251
• What It’s Known For: Home to the largest single cave chamber in California.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Mountainside Hideaway in Vallecito, California

When you thought California couldn’t get any cooler, you discover that it’s also home to Moaning Caverns. Right in the heart of California’s Gold Country, Moaning Caverns is home to the largest single cave chamber. Guests can participate in the Spiral Chamber Tour, which takes them deep into the cave system via the spiral staircase. This unique cave was first discovered by gold miners in the 1840s, and eventually became the go-to place for underground exploration in California.

18. Kartchner Caverns State Park - Arizona

• Address: 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602
• What It’s Known For: Home to one of the largest soda straw stalactites in the world
• Where to Stay Nearby: "Cowboy Cabin" on Working Ranch in Tombstone, AZ

Kartchner Caverns is a beautiful state park in Arizona that features over two full miles of underground passages. While it’s known for being home to the world’s longest soda straw stalactite, there are plenty of other reasons to visit, too. Kartchner Caverns was first discovered in 1974, but was kept secret for years to ensure it would remain protected from unregulated use. As such, it's one of the best-preserved caves you’ll find.

Kartchner Caverns also has the largest column in Arizona, standing at 58 feet tall, plus the world’s most extensive formation of brushite moonmilk. Cave tours are available for guests, and reservations are encouraged! You can even rent a helmet and headlamp and feel like a true spelunker.

19. Caverns of Sonora - Texas

• Address: 1711 Private Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950
• What It’s Known For: A national landmark and one of the most beautiful show caves in the world.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Hilltop Hideaway, Sonora, Texas

The Caverns of Sonora, Texas, are internationally recognized as one of the most beautiful show caves across the globe. Marking the halfway point between Big Bend National Park and San Antonio, these stunning caves offer intimate tours for anyone interested. But the fun doesn’t stop there. The surrounding ranch-style area offers places to camp or hike, pan for gemstones, or even indulge in homemade fudge. This is the type of outdoor experience that the whole family will love taking together.

What To Know Before Visiting the Best Caves in the US

Ready to explore some of the best caverns in the U.S.? Here’s how to prepare. 

Always outfit yourself with sturdy shoes with good tread for your cave tour. It doesn’t matter if you're walking or crawling, closed-toe shoes are essential. As to clothing, be sure to layer up. Although caves usually stay at a consistent temperature (around 45 to 55 degrees), they can feel much colder due to their dampness. If possible, try to wear moisture-wicking attire as well and avoid cotton, as this fabric tends to hold on to moisture. 

If you have accessibility needs, be sure to call ahead so they can answer any questions you may have. Many caves have wheelchair accessible tours available, including Mammoth Caves, Luray Caverns, and Wind Cave, with paved routes or elevators to provide access. 

Wondering when is the best time to visit these famous caves in the United States? Summer is considered the peak season for cave tours in America, being a great way to escape the summer heat. While some caves might be open year-round, like Carlsbad Caverns, others close seasonally to avoid dangerous weather or protect hibernating bats.

Regardless of the tour you plan to take or when you take it, reservations are highly recommended. Tickets tend to sell out at many of these popular caves, while others require a timed entry reservation, so it is important to secure your desired tour, time, and date in advance. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Caves in America

What is the largest cave in the United States?

When it comes to caverns to visit in the U.S., Mammoth Cave is the biggest. Mammoth Cave currently holds the title of the world's longest known cave system, clocking in at an astounding 400 known miles.

Which cave is best for first-time visitors?

Nervous about descending into your first cave? Don’t fret. Carlsbad Caverns, Mammoth Cave, Lava Beds National Monument, Majestic Caverns, and Kartchner Caverns are great for those new to underground adventures in America. With large walking paths and specific introductory tours, these caves are perfect for first-time visitors. 

Are cave tours safe?

Commercial cave tours are generally safe, although there is always a risk of stumbling or slipping due to cave floors being wet and low-light conditions. Always stay on designated paths and follow the instructions provided by your tour guide to prevent any accidents. 

What should you wear in a cave?

Layers of moisture-wicking clothing are the best attire for caves in America. Consider donning a base layer along with a cozy outer layer, like a fleece jacket or thick sweatshirt, to keep you warm in damp and cool conditions. 

Which US cave has the most impressive formations?

Which cave in the U.S. is the most impressive is definitely a question up for debate. Wind Cave is an amazing destination to see rare boxwood formations, while Luray Caverns offers striking columns. Other bucket list caves have large, cavernous rooms dominated by towering stalagmites and stalactites, such as the famed Carlsbad Caverns. Still, none on this list will disappoint, with each and every cavern we’ve highlighted offering some sensational sight worth seeing. 

From national park caves to lesser-known caverns, there are plenty of thrilling adventures to be found underfoot. How many of these caves have you already checked off your list? If you're looking to explore more underground realms around the U.S., plan a cave-roaming trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner. You'll get the best lodging, dining, and nearby sightseeing recommendations as you explore the best cave destinations in America.