What is Caving?

Caving is the art of safely moving through a natural cave to a destination and returning to the surface without hurting yourself or the cave. In order to explore safely, you will need the right equipment and the right skills. The following sections will provide you basic information and links to help you get started exploring caves.

What Equipment Do I Need?

The equipment you need will most depend on what types of caves you plan on exploring. The cave environment such as amount of water and temperature will vary from cave to cave. The following table will give you the basics. I have much more detailed information in the guide to caving (follow pictured link below, left to learn more).  >>Equipment Guides

What Skills Do I Need?

Different caves have different technical demands.  There are different skills needed for horizontal caves, vertical caves, ice caves, and underwater caves. The following checklists will give you some basic guidance, but there is no substitute for learning from experienced cavers. >>Skills Checklist

What are the Hazards of Caving?

Caving, like many other outdoor activities, are not inherently dangerous. The danger comes when you are unprepared either without the right skills or without the right equipment. Follow this link to learn about the most common caving hazards. >>More

Where Can I Go Caving?

Every state has at least one caving club or grotto in their area. Grottos are local chapters of the National Speleological Society. Many National Parks also have caves and some offer guided caving tours. Some private caves and state parks also offer guided wild caving trips. To find out about potential caving opportunities in your area follow the link. >>Caving Opportunities