13 Stunning Ohio Caves You Can and Should Explore

Deer Lick Cave

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Deer Lick Cave Loop, Brecksville, 216-635-3200
While Deer Lick Cave is not a true cave, it’s actually just a sandstone rock overhang, it’s close enough in our eyes. As the name gives away, deer do like to come here and lick the salty rocks, and you’ll probably see other animals, too. About 20 minutes out of Cleveland, all you have to do is then is hike the Deer Lick Cave Loop Trail and you’re there.

Deer Lick Cave

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Deer Lick Cave Loop, Brecksville, 216-635-3200
While Deer Lick Cave is not a true cave, it’s actually just a sandstone rock overhang, it’s close enough in our eyes. As the name gives away, deer do like to come here and lick the salty rocks, and you’ll probably see other animals, too. About 20 minutes out of Cleveland, all you have to do is then is hike the Deer Lick Cave Loop Trail and you’re there.

Indian Trail Caverns and Sheriden Cave

722 State Hwy 568, Vanlue, 419-387-7773
Located on the corner of Wyandot, Seneca and Hancock counties, the spot was once home to prehistoric animals like giant beavers and moose. But now you and the whole family can explore the tunnels and passageways underneath the Earth’s surface. The drive from Cleveland is about two hours.

Photo via /Facebook

Indian Trail Caverns and Sheriden Cave

722 State Hwy 568, Vanlue, 419-387-7773
Located on the corner of Wyandot, Seneca and Hancock counties, the spot was once home to prehistoric animals like giant beavers and moose. But now you and the whole family can explore the tunnels and passageways underneath the Earth’s surface. The drive from Cleveland is about two hours.

Photo via /Facebook

Perry’s Cave

979 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, 419-285-2283
One of the coolest aspects of Perry’s Cave, which stays at a cool 50 degrees all year, is the underground lake that actually rises and falls with the tides of Lake Erie. The ride from Cleveland takes about two hours and includes a ferry to South Bass Island.

Olentangy Indian Caverns

1779 Home Rd., Delaware, 740-548-7917
These damp limestone caverns were millions of years in the making, and are believed to have been a meeting place for ancient Native Americans. Now, from April through October, you can explore its echo chambers and cathedrals. The cave is 54 degrees daily, so bring a coat. The drive is about two hours away from Cleveland,

Olentangy Indian Caverns

1779 Home Rd., Delaware, 740-548-7917
These damp limestone caverns were millions of years in the making, and are believed to have been a meeting place for ancient Native Americans. Now, from April through October, you can explore its echo chambers and cathedrals. The cave is 54 degrees daily, so bring a coat. The drive is about two hours away from Cleveland,

Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve

Laurel Township, 614-265-6561
Yes, you have to have a permit to explore this area, but that’s easily accessed through the Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve’s website. The 14-acre space is home to a large crop of recess caves, perfect for those looking to commune with nature. Expect the drive from Cleveland to take about three hours.

Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve

Laurel Township, 614-265-6561
Yes, you have to have a permit to explore this area, but that’s easily accessed through the Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve’s website. The 14-acre space is home to a large crop of recess caves, perfect for those looking to commune with nature. Expect the drive from Cleveland to take about three hours.

Zane Shawnee Caverns

7092 OH-540, Bellefontaine, 937-592-9592
Owned by the United Remnant Band of the Shawnee Nation, the Zane Shawnee Caverns space includes not only the show cave, but also a museum and campground. Expect concerts and powwows during the warmer months. The drive from Cleveland is a little less than three hours.

Photo via sterlingcreativedesign/Instagram