People walking inside a cave with stone walls and dim lighting.

Spend a Weekend Exploring the Caverns in West Virginia

Located within the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia offers more than just lovely vistas and winding rivers; it holds a secret world beneath its surface. The caverns of West Virginia are geological wonders formed over millions of years, filled with limestone formations, subterranean streams, and echoing rooms carved from rock. Whether you're an experienced spelunker or a curious traveler, exploring these underground treasures is one of the best things to do in West Virginia. 

Cave interior with water reflecting stalactites and stalagmites.

West Virginia Geology

West Virginia’s distinctive landscape, made of soluble rocks like limestone and dolomite, has allowed nature to carve out a number of beautiful caves and caverns over time. Slightly acidic rainwater has slowly dissolved the rock, creating large networks of underground chambers and passageways. These formations often include dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and other formations that give each cavern its unique character.

While the state is home to hundreds of caves, a few stand out for their accessibility, historical significance, and visual splendor. Here are some of the most well-known West Virginia caverns:


Seneca Caverns – Riverton, WV


Perhaps the most famous of West Virginia’s caverns, Seneca Caverns, offers a glimpse into both natural history and regional heritage. Located in Pendleton County, this cave system was originally used by the Seneca Natives for shelter and ceremonies. Today, guided tours take visitors along well-lit paths to view impressive formations like “Fairyland,” a room filled with delicate crystals and flowstone draperies.



Seneca Caverns is family-friendly and includes a gemstone mining activity for kids, as well as picnic areas and a country-style restaurant. The cave maintains a comfortable year-round temperature of around 54°F, making it an ideal stop in both summer and winter.


Smoke Hole Caverns – Cabins, WV


Located near the South Branch of the Potomac River, Smoke Hole Caverns offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty and folklore. According to local legend, the caverns were used by moonshiners during Prohibition, and even earlier by Native American tribes for smoking meat—hence the name “Smoke Hole.”


Visitors can take guided tours through beautifully preserved rooms featuring impressive stalactites and the famous "Crystal Cave," known for its abundant calcite deposits. The site also has a gift shop and gemstone mining, making it a great destination for a full-day adventure.


Organ Cave – Greenbrier County, WV


Organ Cave is not just a geological marvel; it’s also a place of deep historical importance. As the second-largest commercial cave in the eastern United States, Organ Cave has over 45 miles of mapped passages. During the Civil War, the Confederate army mined saltpeter here, a crucial ingredient in gunpowder.


Tours include historical narratives, fossils dating back to prehistoric times, and stunning natural features like "The Cathedral Room," whose acoustics gave the cave its name. Organ Cave is a National Natural Landmark and offers multiple tour options, including a lantern-lit experience for a more immersive journey into the past.

Most Notable Caverns

Night sky scene with bats flying from a cave opening, illuminated by a moon and stars.

Wildlife and Conservation

The caverns of West Virginia are more than tourist attractions; they are ecosystems in their own right. Bats, salamanders, and other cave-dwelling species make their homes in these subterranean environments. Because of this, many caves are subject to conservation efforts to protect fragile habitats. Those efforts also help prevent the spread of white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has devastated bat populations across North America.


Visitors are encouraged to follow "Leave No Trace" principles while exploring caves and to respect restricted areas that may be off-limits due to ecological concerns.

One of the most appealing aspects of exploring the caverns in West Virginia is that it's a year-round activity. Unlike many outdoor attractions that are weather-dependent, caves maintain a steady internal climate, providing a cool refuge in the summer and a warm escape in the winter.


In addition, the surrounding areas of most caverns are often home to hiking trails, rivers, and scenic overlooks, allowing for a well-rounded experience in nature both above and below ground.

A Destination for All Seasons

Person in cave with headlamp and red backpack, exploring a rocky passage.

If you’re planning a trip to West Virginia to explore its caverns, here are a few tips:


  • Wear appropriate footwear: Cavern floors can be slippery and uneven, so sturdy shoes are a must.

  • Bring a light jacket: Even in the summer, the cave interiors are cool.

  • Book in advance: Some tours, especially specialty or lantern tours, require reservations.

  • Check for seasonal hours: While many caverns are open year-round, operating hours may vary by season.

For those looking to combine adventure with education, many caverns offer school and scout group programs, special geology tours, and even fossil hunts.

Planning Your Visit

Stay at Momma Tried RV & Campground

Whether you’re marveling at ancient formations, learning about Civil War history in Organ Cave, or simply enjoying the thrill of descending into the earth, West Virginia’s caverns offer a subterranean journey that is as enriching as it is awe-inspiring.


Once you’re done exploring, head back to Momma Tried RV & Campground in Cabins and enjoy a relaxing evening around the campfire. Visit our basketball court for a quick game or take advantage of the easy access to the nearby river. We offer full RV hookups and provide the perfect environment for your West Virginia getaway.


Book your reservation with us today!