Beware: You should never explore wild caves alone or without proper gear. Consider getting in touch with a Grotto of the National Speleological Society at www.caves.org or a qualified cave club. These groups are skilled and will train you. Without sufficient knowledge, preparation, and equipment, cave exploring can lead to serious injury or death.
Ohio is known for its diverse attractions, from roller coasters at Cedar Point to the historical wonders at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. However, beneath the surface are Ohio’s stunning and often overlooked caves, offering an exciting outdoor adventure for tourists and locals alike.
Ash Cave
At the heart of Hocking Hills State Park lies the captivating Ash Cave, a contender for the most astounding feature in the entire park.
Holding the title of the largest recess cavern east of the Mississippi, Ash Cave derives its name from the significant ash deposits discovered within. Boasting a 100-foot depth (30.5 m) and a staggering 700-foot-wide (213.4 m) opening, Ash Cave houses a magnificent waterfall at its center.
Speculations abound that Native Americans sought refuge in this underground haven centuries ago, leaving behind the mysterious ashes.
Springtime is the recommended season for a visit, as melting snow unveils a cascading waterfall and vibrant wildflowers adorn the surrounding woodlands.
Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave, located in Put-In-Bay, OH, provides an adults-only adventure. Discovered accidentally in 1897 during well construction for a winery, it was initially used for crystal harvesting.
Home to stunning Celestine crystals, some up to three feet wide, and the world’s largest geode, coated with the blue mineral celestite.
The cave showcases the geological wonders created over time, adding a unique touch to the winery experience.
Mary Campbell Cave
Nestled in Gorge Park, Cuyahoga Falls, Mary Campbell Cave is an erosional cave from the nearby Cuyahoga River.
The cave, formed by the destruction of a soft shale layer, features a sandstone canopy with a 66-foot-high (20.2 m) ceiling, 132 feet (40.2 m) wide, and 50 feet (15.2 m) deep.
Accessible via the Gorge Trail in Canyon Park, managed by Summit County Metro Parks, it offers a scenic trek through the Cuyahoga River canyon.
Ohio Caverns
Boasting over two miles (3.22 km) of passageways, Ohio Caverns are among the largest caves in the state.
Discover stalactites, stalagmites, and vibrant cavern formations, including Crystal King’s Cave, home to one of the world’s largest stalactites, weighing 400 pounds (181.3 kg) and over 200,000 years old.
Open year-round, guided tours ensure a temperature-controlled experience, with the caves maintaining a cool 54 degrees Fahrenheit.
Old Man’s Cave
Located on State Route 664, Old Man’s Cave is a prominent cavern in the Hocking region.
Named after Richard Rowe, a recluse residing in the recess cave, it consists of five main portions within the Old Man’s Creek Valley. It is rumored that Rowe is buried beneath a ledge in the primary recess cave.
The spectacular gorge, carved by natural forces, spans 150 feet (45.7 meters) of Black Hand sandstone and offers a unique view into the earth’s interior.
Explore the Grandma Gatewood Trail, a six-mile circuit passing through Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, to extend your cave exploration.
Olentangy Caverns
Olentangy Caverns offer a family-friendly adventure in Delaware County with twisting corridors and spacious underground chambers.
Formed millions of years ago through an underground river cutting through limestone rock, these caverns were utilized by the Wyandot tribe for refuge.
Visitors can explore the labyrinth through concrete stairs descending 55 feet (16.7 meters), unveiling the geological phenomenon hidden beneath the museum.
Perry’s Cave
Another gem in Put-In-Bay, Perry’s Cave is ideal for families, with a rich history dating back to its discovery in 1813 by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry.
Found 52 feet (15.8 m) underground, Perry’s Cave holds a unique freshwater lake, mysteriously connected to Lake Erie tides.
Used for water needs during the War of 1812, this mystical cave played a role in history and continues to captivate visitors with its intriguing underground lake.
Embark on a journey beneath Ohio’s surface and discover the charm, history, and natural wonders hidden within these captivating caves. Ohio’s caverns have something extraordinary to offer, whether seeking exclusivity, family fun, or a touch of mysticism.
Rock House at Hocking Hills State Park
Rock House is the sole authentic cave in Hocking Hills State Park and holds a special place in the region’s allure.
This 150-foot-high (45.7 m) sandstone cliff features a tunnel-like passage, with the main pathway stretching 200 (60.9 m) feet and a ceiling soaring 25 feet (7.6 m) high.
Water’s artistry, seeping through a horizontal seam parallel to the rock face, carved the unique passageway, while engravings on the rock provide a glimpse into the past.
Adding historical significance, Colonel F.F. Rempel of Logan erected a 16-room hotel, horse stable, and post office in 1835.
Saltpetre Cave State Nature Park
Located in Hocking County, the Saltpetre Cave State Nature Park boasts four recess caves on its 14-acre expanse. Some caves feature expansive mouths over 100 feet (30.5 m) wide, with corridors delving over 120 feet (36.6 m) into the bedrock.
Surrounded by a lush landscape of hemlock, birch, and tulip trees, the park offers breathtaking views of the meadow below. Exploration requires a permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), adding a touch of exclusivity to the adventure.
Seneca Caverns
Located in Bellevue, Seneca Caverns is one of the largest underground caverns.
Established in 1872 and opened for public excursions in 1933, Seneca Caverns earned the designation of a Registered Natural Landmark in 1997.
The hour-long guided tour includes:
- Scaling and walking up natural stone staircases.
- Taking visitors to the underground river at the water table’s deepest point.
- Ole Mist’ry River.
- Reaching a depth of 110 feet (33.5 m).
Conclusion
Ohio has some interesting caves, with lots of great hiking trails around some of them. When you’re done here, be sure to check out some of the neighboring states for even more caving adventures.
Michigan Caves
Pennsylvania Caves