Going Into These 5 Caves In Ohio Is Like Entering Another World
Guess what, Ohioans?! Turns out, you don’t have to travel far to explore incredible caves and caverns. Right here in Ohio there are caverns waiting to take you into their depths and show you a whole new world. The following are what we believe to be the best caves in Ohio.
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"America's Most Colorful Caverns" can be found in West Liberty, Ohio. These caverns feature multiple chambers named "Fantasyland," "Crystal King," "Palace of the Gods" and the "Big Room." The caverns were formed thousands of years ago when an underground river cut through ancient limestone and created vast rooms and passageways. These passageways are now filled with crystal stalactites, stalagmites and many other formations. You can visit this year-round show cave at 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357.
Within the Ohio Caverns is one of the world's largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. Crystal King is nearly five feet long, weighing an estimated 400 pounds, and is estimated to be more than 200,000 years old.
Within the Hocking Hills State Park area in Logan is the beloved Rock House, where visitors can freely explore a cave with a 25 foot high ceiling and window-like openings. Over the years, humans have flocked to this pretty site. Ancient indigenous tribes used it for shelter, but it became known as "Robbers Roost" after Ohio became a state when unsavory characters purportedly used it as a hideout. Take a step back in time as you explore this ancient rock formation and centuries of human history! Visit Rock House near 16350 OH-374, Laurelville, OH 43135.
Located in Bellevue, Ohio is another geographical wonder that was first discovered in 1872. Seneca Caverns are actually a designated Registered Natural Landmark, a rightfully earned recognition. When you venture to these caverns you will travel through "The Earth Crack" and view the Ole' Mist'ry River, parts of the largest subterranean cave system in Ohio. Bundle up, because this cave is a consistent 54 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Visit this underground landmark at 15248 E Township Rd 178, Bellevue, OH 44811.
At Hocking Hills State Park you'll find one of Ohio's most beloved hiking spots and a cave in which a hermit purportedly once lived. Richard Rowe arrived in The Buckeye State around the time of the American Revolution to establish a trading post, and he is said to have settled in the large recess cave. He, as well as other early residents, are said to be buried in the cave. Find this pretty spot at 19988 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138.
Also along the Old Man's Cave hiking trails at Hocking Hills State Park is Ash Cave. This scenic spot is said to be named for a mysterious pile of ashes found by early area settlers, an odd discovery in Ohio's largest recess cave. Discover this amazing cavern off of OH-56, Logan, OH 43138.
These caves are worth getting over your fear of the dark (….or bats….or anything else that might be in there.) So grab a backpack, a friend and a flashlight (of course) and take a few days to explore some of the best caves in Ohio.
Address: 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357, USA
Address: 16350 OH-374, Laurelville, OH 43135, USA
Address: 15248 E Township Rd 178, Bellevue, OH 44811, USA
Address: 19988 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138, USA
Address: OH-56, Ohio, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Caves In Ohio
September 13, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
Does Ohio have any natural wonders?
The Buckeye State is full of natural wonder, as locals and visitors alike will surely realize. The Lake Erie Islands hide the most incredible glacial striations in Ohio… and they’re deep grooves carved into the earth. Cuyahoga Valley National Park has a massive waterfall, the biggest in Ohio, and Crystal Cave is one of the most stunning natural places in the state. There’s much to discover here!
What are the most beautiful hikes in Ohio?
The very best hikes in Ohio lead to waterfalls. Trekking through natural landscapes like those found in Charleston Falls Preserve and Beach City Wildlife Area are incredibly rewarding experiences for Ohio Nature Lovers of all ages.
What are the best outdoor adventures in Ohio?
Spending time in Hocking Hills or Cuyahoga Valley National Park are always rewarding adventures for nature lovers. However, there’s something here to entertain adrenaline junkies, too. Take a zipline adventure or stroll along the Murch Canopy Walk for an experience like no other.
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
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