Caving, also known as spelunking, is the recreational exploration of caves and is a popular activity in many national and state parks in the United States. Parks offer a wide range of caving opportunities, from easy, well-traveled caves to challenging, remote caves.
Many national and state parks have designated caves that are open to the public for exploration. Some parks also offer guided tours, which provide visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience while learning about the geology, hydrology, and biology of the cave.
However, not all caves in national and state parks are open to the public, as some may be closed to protect the park’s natural and cultural resources, or because they are too dangerous for visitors.
Caving in national and state parks requires visitors to follow the rules and regulations of the park to ensure the safety of themselves and other visitors, as well as to protect the park’s resources. Some parks may require visitors to obtain a permit, and to wear hard hats and other safety gear.
It’s worth noting that caving can be a physically demanding and dangerous activity, and it requires proper planning, equipment, and experience. Park staff or tour guides can provide visitors with information on the level of difficulty and the level of skill required for each cave, and can recommend the appropriate caves for visitors based on their skill level and experience.