If you’re looking for an out-of-the-ordinary adventure with Fido, consider visiting a dog-friendly cave or cavern. Though many of these underground tours only permit small dogs that can be carried, a few go the extra mile and welcome pups of any size. Just be sure you’re prepared by keeping your pooch on a leash, bringing along plenty of fresh water and protecting his paws with boots if he’ll be walking.
Caves and Caverns That Welcome Canines
Posted by Lauren Barker
War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake
War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake welcomes leashed dogs of all sizes on one-hour tours from early March through November. You and your pup will begin the tour at the largest cavern entrance in Arkansas and be led by an expert guide along wide paths next to the cave’s flowing stream. The cave stays a constant 58 degrees year-round so Fido will be comfortable even during the hot summer months. After the tour, explore the trails above ground and admire scenic views of the lake.
Plan a vacation on Beaver Lake and book a room at cozy Coppermine Lodge. Your pup will enjoy more hiking opportunities at the nearby Hobbs State Park Conservation Area.
Luray Caverns
While you’re visiting Shenandoah, one of the most pet-friendly National Parks in the country, make a stop at Luray Caverns. Small dogs that can be carried can tag along as you explore the largest cavern in the eastern U.S. Small dog strollers are also permitted since pathways are paved, lit and not too steep. You’ll walk through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high and spot unique rock formations at every turn. You’ll also see Dream Lake, a shallow body of water that mirrors the stalactites hanging from the ceiling to create a cool optical illusion. If your pooch is too large to be carried or ride in a stroller, he can hang out in a crate in the air-conditioned crew lounge while you take the tour.
Once you’re back above ground, grab a craft brew at Hawksbill Brewing Co. and cuddle up for the night at Hotel Laurance.
Lake Shasta Caverns
Friendly pups who can be carried or ride in a canine backpack, are welcome on tours at Lake Shasta Caverns. This national natural landmark is located in the foothills of Mount Shasta and 900 feet above Shasta Lake. Take Fido along for the two-hour tour which includes a catamaran ride across the McCloud arm of the lake, a bus ride through the hills with beautiful lake and mountain views, and a guided tour of the underground caverns. There are over 600 stairs on the cavern tour, but if Fido’s getting heavy, visitors can exit to the gift shop at the halfway point and view a narrated video tour instead.
Enjoy a peaceful getaway at The Inn at Shasta Lake. Pet-friendly rooms include a jetted tub or fireplace for a truly relaxing experience.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
At Maquoketa Caves State Park, hiking hounds can wander along six miles of trails through hardwood forests, prairies, and the park’s many caves which were formed over many millennia by water erosion. Be sure to check out the 1,100-foot Dancehall Cave, where dances were once held, along with Hernado’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, and Wye Cave. Since these aren’t guided tours, you’ll want to bring a flashlight! Then, take time to explore geological features like the Natural Bridge, which stands 50 feet above Raccoon Creek, and the 17-ton Balanced Rock.
Share your sleeping bag with your best friend at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground and snuggle around the campfire, or cuddle by a private fireplace at Moon River Cabins.
Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano
Follow an ancient lava trail through old-growth trees to Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano, located right on the Continental Divide and just off Route 66. A quarter mile down the trail, you’ll arrive at the ice cave, a collapsed lava tube, which features layers of natural ice that glisten blue and green in the sunlight. After the hike there, Fido will appreciate the temperature change, as the cave never gets above 31 degrees year-round. The cave’s walls are made of a 20-foot-thick ice mass which has been accumulating in a cave of porous lava for over 3,400 years. After visiting the cave, experience one of the finest examples of an erupted cinder cone and lava field in North America at the Bandera Volcano which erupted about 10,000 years ago. Take the half-mile trail to the lookout point and your pooch can peer down inside the crater.
After a day of temperature extremes, you’ll be happy to set your own thermostat at Quality Inn & Suites Grants. While you’re there, swing by Junkyard on 66 Brewery for a delicious barbecue sandwich and craft brew.
Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum
Located directly beneath the city of Horse Cave, Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum is one of Kentucky’s largest cave entrances. Fido is welcome to join you on tours but make sure your pooch is up for the adventure before you begin. Hidden River Cave is home to the longest underground swinging bridge which leads to the majestic Sunset Dome, and fearful pups may not be keen on crossing. After exploring the cave, stop in the pet-friendly museum and take a self-guided tour through two floors of educational and informative exhibits on America’s natural caverns and visit the cave’s observation overlook.
Make it a cave-filled weekend and spend the night at the Historic Wigwam Village No. 2 in Cave City, then rent a kayak from Caveland Kayak and Canoe and paddle the Green River into Mammoth Cave National Park.
Fantastic Caverns
Discovered by a farmer’s dog in 1862, it’s only fitting that Fantastic Caverns is a welcoming spot for four-legged visitors today. During Prohibition, the massive cave was used by bootleggers as a speakeasy and casino. In the 1950s, it was transformed into an underground auditorium where people came to see country music greats like Buck Owens. Today, your dog can "mark his territory" on America’s only Jeep-drawn cave tour. During the one-hour ride, you’ll hear more fascinating tales about this Springfield landmark and see stunning stalactites and stalagmites at every turn. With a natural temperature of 60 degrees year-round, Fantastic Caverns is a perfect spot to visit with your pooch in any season.
After your tour, swing by Black Lab Coffee Co. so Fido can get a pup cup while you enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up. Then walk down the street to Hotel Vandivort where he’ll receive more treats from the front desk.
Russell Cave National Monument
Witness over 10,000 years of history at Russell Cave National Monument. The 314-acre archaeological site is one of the most complete records of prehistoric cultures in the Southeast. Fido can join you on a guided tour of the cave, where you'll learn about primitive tools and weapons, and get a glimpse into the daily life of the area's prehistoric inhabitants. Stop for a photo at the wildflower meadow, hike along a portion of the North Alabama Birding Trail, and be sure to get your pup certified as a B.A.R.K. Ranger, complete with an official tag, at the park bookstore.
Travel just across state lines into Tennessee and spend the night at Hampton Inn Kimball. Be sure to grab dinner at Top of the Rock Restaurant and Brewery where Fido is welcome on the outdoor patio featuring breathtaking views.
Have you visited a cave or cavern with your dog? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!
Banner photo by Getty Images.