Most grottos in the Western Region do not have the resources to provide trips to clubs or the casual tourist. For this reason, we have provided links to commercial caves within the region. All of the caves listed below may be considered “open to the public”. Most cave tours feature the classic lighted pathway. Many of the caves also have “spelunking trips” or off trail trips for the more adventurous individual. The Western Region does not endorse any of the companies listed below, but offers these choices for the convienience of those who are curious about this activity.
- Tours differ by vendor, so please make inquiries as to the requirements of the trips before setting out.
- If the tours are done in undeveloped caves, make sure the company is reputable. Ask your guide: Do you have liability insurance?
What is the rescue protocol?
Are the necessary permits in place?
What is the guide to tourist ratio?
What training is offered?
What equipment is provided? - Please make sure that you are properly equipped for each activity, and follow the safety rules.
California Caves
Commercial
Boyden Cavern, King’s Canyon
California Caverns, Mountain Ranch
Moaning Caverns, Angel’s Camp
Black Chasm, Volcano
Lake Shasta Caverns, Dunsmuir
Mercer Caverns, Murphys
Government
Subway Cave, Lassen National Forest, Fall River Mills
Mitchell Caverns, Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, Lancaster
Crystal Cave, Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers
Lava Beds National Monument, Tulelake
Pinnacles National Park, Paicines
Channel Islands National Park, Ventura
Nevada Caves
Commercial
(none)
Government
Lehman Caverns, Great Basin National Park, Baker
Oregon Caves
Commercial
Sea Lion Caves, Florence
Government
Oregon Caves National Monument, Cave Junction
Lava River Cave, Deschutes National Forest, Bend
Other Tourist Resources
The United States Show Caves Directory
National Caves Association
NPS Park Geology Tour of Cave and Karst Parks