6 Best Caves In Wisconsin You Can Visit In 2024
Wisconsin is home to over 400 known caves. Six of these caves in Wisconsin are currently open to the public and can be toured. For some caves, guided tours are necessary to ensure your presence does not harm the cave’s fragile habitat. Something as simple as a human touch can harm the formations and cause them to stop growing.
In this post, we will explain what a cave is and the kinds of caves you can find in Wisconsin. Most importantly, we will share the six caves in Wisconsin you can visit, where they are located, and what to expect when you do visit.
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Types Of Caves In Wisconsin
Most of us have heard of or seen caves in a movie. Did you know there are three characteristics every cave must meet?
1. It needs to be made of rock
2. It needs to be large enough for a human to fit in
3. It needs to have been formed by natural forces
Caves can be found worldwide, and in almost every state in the U.S. There are many types of caves, and the type is defined by how the cave was formed. So, what types of caves can be found in Wisconsin?
Solution Caves are the most common and mainly what you will find in Wisconsin. Solution Caves are formed in rock that can be dissolved, like limestone. They begin with a crack. Over time, a combination of changing weather and rain and melting snow seeping into the cracks and then combining with just the right chemicals, such as carbon dioxide, creates the perfect environment for a cave to form.
Sea Caves are found around large bodies of water, such as oceans or lakes. They are formed by water beating against exposed rock and slowly eroding it. Over time, what may start as a small hole could become a cave or archway you can kayak through. Sea Caves are always changing, and you can see the changes over the years.
Ice Caves may be among the least popular caves. They are not caves made of ice but rather caves decorated with ice, including stalactite icicles and piles of flowstone ice. The Ice Caves at Apostle Island in northern Wisconsin are the most famous.
Caves In Wisconsin To Explore
Each cave open to the Wisconsin public offers something unique to its area. The stories behind each cave’s discovery are amazing. We have enjoyed all of our cave tours, and each time, the tour guides were very knowledgeable and informed about Wisconsin and it’s history. Our favorite cave we have toured has been The Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mound, Wisconsin.
Something is exciting about knowing you are traveling down underground. We also loved how much thought was put into making the caves as visitor-friendly as possible and how knowledgeable the tour guides were.
Cave Of The Mounds, Blue Mound
Getting There: Google Link to Cave of the Mounds
Cave of the Mounds is located in Blue Mound, Wisconsin. It was discovered in 1939 when workers accidentally blasted into it. Word spread fast about the cave, and the area had to be closed off to protect it.
In 1988, Cave of the Mounds earned the National Natural Landmark recognition. Although Cave of the Mounds is privately owned, a public-private partnership with the National Park Service ensures that the cave will be managed & protected for future generations.
Guided-timed tours are available year-round. This tour will not disappoint. The variety of minerals in Wisconsin gives Cave of the Mounds unique colors.
Things To Do At Cave Of The Mounds
During a visit to the Cave of the Mounds, adults and children of all ages can enjoy several hands-on activities.
- Sluicing For Gemstones – opportunities to purchase and crack open ‘geodes’ or dig for fossils and gems, allow you to touch and discover.
- Butterfly Gardens & Rock Gardens – much detail has been put into making the outdoors of Cave of the Mounds beautiful. There are butterfly and rock gardens in several locations for you to enjoy and learn about nature and your Wisconsin surroundings.
- Hiking And Biking Trails – There are several different hiking and bike trails for you to explore.
- A Picnic Area – Did you pack a lunch to enjoy after exploring the cave? A picnic area is available for you to sit and enjoy your lunch while sharing your experience in the cave. If you forget to pack a lunch, don’t worry there is a snack shack on site.
Crystal Cave, Spring Valley
Getting There: Google Maps Link To Crystal Cave
Wisconsin’s longest cave, Crystal Cave, is near Eau Claire in Spring Valley, Wisconsin.
At Crystal Cave, you will enjoy a one-hour guided walking tour. You will learn about Wisconsin’s longest cave history while you descend more than seven stories below ground.
While you explore the passages more than 70 feet below ground, you will see stalactites, stalagmites, and small, unique druzy crystals, which gave Crystal Cave its name.
Unlike Cave of the Mounds, Crystal Cave has something unique. Three species of bats “hang out” in Crystal Cave during the summer. With an additional four common species that remain in the caves year round. You will learn about them on your visit.
Things To Do At Crystal Cave
If you are looking for something to do at Crystal Cave that does not include traveling down seven flights of stairs, you will find these extra things above ground a wonderful addition to your visit.
- Gem Panning – At Prospector’s Creek, you can uncover real fossils, gems, and crystals from around the world.
- Nature Trail – Enjoy a walk on two different nature trails and see how much wildlife you can spot. Signs along the way introduce you to your surroundings.
- Picnic Area – Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a nice, shady spot in the picnic area.
- Tee-Rex Mini Golf – You’ll learn about different dinosaurs as you test your mini golfing skills in 18 holes of fun.
- Gold Minor’s Saloon – Grab an adult beverage at Gold Minor’s Saloon while you cool off on the patio overlooking the mini golf.
Eagle Cave, Blue River
Getting There: Google Maps Link To Eagle Cave
Eagle Cave opened to the public in 1938. Wisconsin’s largest Onyx cave has over 3000 feet of passages. Onyx is a translucent mineral related to the agate.
The cave is open for summer tours on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day and for youth group tours year-round.
As you explore the sights underground, your tour guides will share information about Eagle Cave’s history and interesting geological facts. Unlike many caves in the U.S., you can explore and touch almost every part of Eagle Cave.
Things To Do At Eagle Cave
There are numerous things to do at Eagle Cave. You won’t be lacking outdoor activities to keep you busy.
- Canoeing – Canoe rentals are available for those who like to spend time on the water.
- Camping—Weekend camping and seasonal full-time rental sites are available. Youth groups can reserve overnight camping in the cave as a special treat for those wanting a true caving experience.
- Hiking Trails – Enjoy a relaxing hike on the area’s nature trails.
- Fishing – Fishing is a favorite pastime for those visiting Eagle Cave.
Maribel Caves, Coopertown
Getting there: Google Maps Link To Maribel Caves
Maribel Caves is located near Manitowoc, Wisconsin, in Cherney Maribel Caves County Park. It is a series of caves and tunnels partially above ground. The caves in this county park are ever-changing, discovered and excavated to make them safe for the public.
The caves in this county park have rustic outdoor entrances and seem mostly above ground. There are some narrow passageways, and one cave offers a 235-foot strictly cave crawling cave tour. This one may not be for you if you are a bit claustrophobic.
While the park offers many caves open for self-guided exploring during normal park hours, some are only open for special tours. Pancake Cave, Coopers Cave, Staircase Cave and Tunnel Passages are open during official park hours. Spring Cave can be seen from a viewing deck only.
One of the newest caves, New Hope, is still gradually being excavated and having the sediment removed that has filled the caves. Tours to New Hope are given one day a month.
Things To Do At Maribel Caves
This county park is a nature lover’s paradise. If you are looking to spend a day in nature and explore the caves or the surrounding area, this is a great place to go.
- Hiking – Several hiking trails are located in Maribel Caves County Park, making the park an outdoor lover’s paradise.
- Fishing – One of the favorite hiking trails will take you to the local’s favorite fishing place
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Sea Caves
Getting There: Google Maps Link to Sea Caves
Located on Lake Superior near Bayfield, Wisconsin, the Apostle Island National Lakeshore Sea Caves are an amazing example of what the force of nature can do. The force of the waves and ever-changing seasons in Wisconsin have left behind caves, arches, chambers, and passageways through the sandstone cliffs along the shores of the Apostle Island National Lakeshore.
Hundreds of years of weather and wave action have created some of the most spectacular formations known as the Sea caves.
The Apostle Island Sea Caves are always changing because the waves easily erode the sandstone.
You can visit the Sea Caves in the summer and view them from a boat, or, in the right conditions, rent a canoe and explore the cave’s intricate details. This option is only available during calm days.
During the winter, the Sea Caves are known as the Ice Caves. It takes just the right combination of weather and temperature for the Ice Caves to be open for exploration. Ice thickness and air temperatures are monitored very closely, and it may be several years in a row that the Ice Caves are not safe for exploration.
When the Ice Caves open, be prepared for a mile hike on frozen Lake Superior to reach the cave. It is well worth the trip to witness the amazing formations produced from a combination of waves, air temperature, and the ever-changing sandstone caves. There is no cost to visit the caves.
Things To Do At Apostle Island Sea Caves
Visiting Apostle Island National Lakeshore Sea Caves is a weekend adventure with numerous activities waiting for you.
- Hiking – You can enjoy Several hiking trails near the Sea Caves.
- Biking—Biking the trail near the Sea Caves is an enjoyable way to explore the area’s offerings.
- Kayaking – Whether you have your own kayak or rent one, kayaking is a great way to see the Apostle Islands and get an up-close look at the sea caves.
- Boating – Several boat companies offer cruises to the Sea Caves and sightseeing around the Apostle Islands.
- Primitive Camping – Camping is available on 18 of the Apostle Islands with access only by boat. Campsites are available on the mainland and can be reached by a six-mile hike or by water. The campsite can be reached by kayak.
Cave Point, Jacksonport
Getting There: Google Maps Link to Cave Point
Cave Point is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Door County, a premier vacation spot.
Cave Point is the location of partially submerged caves. Unlike most other caves in Wisconsin, Cave Point was formed from thousands of years of pounding waves crashing against the limestone cliffs. You can experience the limestone ledges and see some of the cave formations from above.
At times, the sunlight gives the water an unbelievable blue coloring as the waves crash against the limestone.
The walk to breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the limestone ledges and above views of the caves is just a short distance from parking. There is no cost to visit the park. Cave Point is open year-round.
✨FUN FACT: Cave Point is the only county park located in a state park.
Things To Do At Cave Point
Door County offers many activities. These are just a few things you can enjoy in Cave Point Park. Be sure to explore more of Door County and experience a Door County Fish Fry.
- Fishing – Located on Lake Michigan, whether you are fishing from shore or by boat, the catch of the day is sure to be abundant.
- Hiking – A half-mile of hiking trails that wind through the beautiful landscape of Cave Point connects to several miles of state hiking trails. The trails offer hikers lots of adventure options.
- Photography – Cave Point is ideal for grabbing some amazing nature photos.
- Scuba Diving – For the experienced diver, the caves are a once in a lifetime scuba diving experience.
- Kayaking – Launched from a nearby kayak launch site, kayak tours allow you to explore the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan and the sea caves.
Things To Know Before You Visit A Cave
*Note these are just general rules for caves. Each cave will differ. Please follow all posted rules for the cave you are visiting to preserve the caves.
- Leave your backpacks in your vehicle.
- Caves will be cool; underground caves average 50° year round. Dress appropiately and have a sweater or light jacket with you.
- No food or drinks are allowed in the cave with the exception of water.
- Due to the confined spaces, no strollers or framed carriers are allowed.
- No pets.
- Do not touch. Oils from your hand will stop the growth of the formations.
- Please take pictures and share your memories. But please, no tripods or selfie sticks.
- If you are visiting a sea cave via kayak, please use the buddy system and let someone know where you are going. Tides, wind and weather change quickly, be observant.
- If you are visiting an Ice Cave, dress warm, and that includes extra layers on your feet, as you will be walking on thick layers of ice. If there is any question about the ice thickness, do not attempt it.
Wrap~Up – Caves In Wisconsin
Caves in Wisconsin offer a fascinating journey into the state’s geological and historical wonders. From the underground formations of Cave of the Mounds to the adventures of the Apostle Islands Sea Caves, each cave offers a unique experience.
Exploring the caves is more than just an outdoor adventure it’s a chance to marvel at the forces that formed these wonders.
Whether you are spelunking through narrow passages or admiring intricate formations from above, Wisconsin’s caves offer a memorable experience for all who venture into their depths.
