Spelunking, also called caving, is a unique way for families to exercise, bond and nurture an interest in the natural world.
While most people might think of caving as a way to escape the summer heat, many local caverns remain a temperate 50 degrees to 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. That means the perfect time to descend into the depths is just about any time.
Parents should note that cavern tours can vary in difficulty and some routes are better suited for older children. Be sure to check the route online or call ahead if you’re unsure whether a tour is right for your family.
Grand Caverns
5 Grand Cavern Road
Grottoes, VA 24441
Spelunk, hike, kayak and learn. This cavern destination features cave tours for adventurers of all skill levels and fun activities for the little ones. Families can look forward to educational activities and “mining.” However, these caves are not accessible to strollers.
grandcaverns.com
Crystal Grottoes Caverns
19821 Shepherdstown Pike
Boonsboro, MD 21713
Families can tour the caverns with a guide and learn about the history and geology of the cave’s formations. Junior geologists can work ahead by completing the printable word search available on the Crystal Grottoes Caverns website. Visitors can also purchase a bag to sift for fossils, shark teeth or gems. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket—the cave is about 54 degrees year-round!
crystalgrottoescaverns.com
Luray Caverns
101 Cave Hill Road
Luray, VA 22835
Come for the caves and stay for the gem sluice, garden maze and rope adventure park. Families planning a day trip can also check out the Railway Museum, Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah National Park, Shenandoah Heritage Village and more. Virtual tours are also available online.
luraycaverns.com
Shenandoah Caverns
261 Caverns Road
Quicksburg, VA 22847
See natural wonders like the “Breakfast Bacon” and “Diamond Cascade” formations on a guided tour 200 feet below ground level. (Don’t worry—there is an elevator.) The caverns also have a play area for children younger than 12, a gemstone mining sluice and a picnic area. Families can also visit the Route 11 Potato Chip Factory and the Virginia Museum of the Civil War nearby.
shenandoahcaverns.com
Skyline Caverns
10344 Stonewall Jackson Highway
Front Royal, VA 22630
Explore the depths, see underground streams and find the Rainbow Waterfall. Visiting families can also look forward to the Skyline Arrow miniature train, Enchanted Dragon mirror maze and a scenic nature trail at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Strollers are allowed in the cavern, but there are some spots where the stroller might need to be carried.
skylinecaverns.com
