Summary
With all there is to see and do in Pennsylvania, it’s easy to overlook the fascinating underground adventures available to visitors. While some of the state’s caverns are accessible during the winter months, these unique below-ground sites provide a refreshing escape during the summer, as they maintain a naturally cool temperature.
Coral Caverns (Manns Choice, PA)
At Coral Caverns, visitors can explore the only known coral reef cavern in the world. Discover fascinating fossils, stunning stalactites, and stalagmites. Don’t miss the fossil wall showcasing sea creature remains, buried over 400 million years ago. Coral Caverns is conveniently located just 6 miles west of Bedford on Route 31 in Manns Choice.
Crystal Cave Park (Kutztown, PA)
Crystal Cave Park is a renowned site famous for its diverse and elaborate rock formations. The park features shops, fast food options, scenic trails, and a museum across its 125 acres. Visitors can enjoy a 55-minute guided tour, diving 125 feet below ground to experience the cool temperature of 54°F. Additionally, October visitors can partake in the thrilling Ghost Lantern Tour. Crystal Cave Park is situated off Route 22 near Kutztown.
Indian Echo Caverns (Hummelstown, PA)
Indian Echo Caverns offers a delightful 45-minute guided tour along with various family-friendly activities. Guests can pan for gemstones at Gem Mill Junction, explore the gift shop, or enjoy a picnic on the beautiful grounds. For children’s entertainment, there is also a playground and a small petting zoo. Located near Hershey attractions, Indian Echo Caverns can be found on Middletown Road in Hummelstown.
Laurel Caverns Park (Hopwood, PA)
Visit Hopwood for breathtaking views and embark on an exciting spelunking adventure at Laurel Caverns. The park offers a spectacular seven-county view from its grounds along with more than three miles of underground passages to explore. Note that the caves close at the end of October for bat hibernation season. Laurel Caverns is conveniently located off Route 40 between Uniontown and Farmington, making it the closest major cavern to Pittsburgh.
Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park (Centre Hall, PA)
Penn’s Cave, an all-water cavern and wildlife park, has been a popular destination since 1885 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests can take a scenic one-mile guided motorboat tour through the limestone cavern and later try delicious bison burgers at the Cave Cafe. Penn’s Cave is easily accessible, located 18 miles east of State College and five miles east of Centre Hall on Route 192.
Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks (Huntingdon, PA)
Lincoln Caverns is home to two distinct and extraordinary caverns: Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks, both located near Raystown Lake. Children can dress up like real spelunkers and navigate the simulated Kids Cave Crawl, while visitors can explore winding passageways adorned with thousands of stalactites and shimmering crystals. Lincoln Caverns is located just three miles west of Huntingdon on Route 22.
Lost River Caverns (Hellertown, PA)
At Lost River Caverns, visitors can experience a stunning array of crystal formations and navigate an underground river across five unique chambers. One cavern room serves as a dedicated chapel, making it an option for unforgettable underground weddings. Guests can take a 45-minute guided walking tour along 1200 feet of well-lit, paved walkways. Lost River Caverns is situated in Hellertown, south of Bethlehem, just off I-78 at Exit 21.
Woodward Cave (Woodward, PA)
Referred to as “The Big One,” Woodward Cave features the impressive 14-foot-high Tower of Babel, one of the largest stalagmites in the region. Visitors can revel in the grandeur of five spacious cave rooms during a guided tour, including the Ballroom, which is often used for square dances and banquets. Woodward Cave is located in Centre County off of Route 45.
