california cavern, state historic landmark

Though this cavern may not be massive like the Oregon Caves, it is large enough to have quite a bit of different formations. But what I found interesting is the stories behind the cave, how it was found, how it was used and such (thus a State Historical Landmark). Certainly a great place to bring the kids. I took the 90min tour, and there is a 5-6hour tour that goes into more of the harder to get to parts of the cavern (I am ok not doing those). The tour guide is funny and entertaining. The facilities are modern and clean. The 90min tour is $15, and there are a few tight areas, think a good size football player can get thru though.

Looking for a little light adventure? Caving is a great way to educate, exercise and fuel the imagination. There is something for everyone's level, easy to difficult. Short and long. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful and witty. This is my second trip, took my grandkids, 5 yrs and 9 yrs. They were a little hesitant at first but, got into it right away. Wish Amanda had been our guide, I believe she is better suited to speaking to younger kids. But, by no means was our guide lacking. He was patient with their questions and informative without over-doing and becoming boring for kids. Great picnic area, family, couple or groups. Bring your cooler full of lunch and enjoy the wild turkey wandering around. Gift shop is reasonable, sells drinks and has an informational video to watch. I look forward to a 3rd, 4th or even 5th visit.

We were at California Caverns a couple of days before Thanksgiving and took a picnic lunch along. Since we were the only ones waiting for the next tour, the young tour guide said she would give us a personal tour. There's short walking trail to the cave that was lined with beautiful oak trees and fall foliage along the way. The cave was very interesting and beautiful and particularly more so because it was just the three of us and we could ask questions and take our time. This cave and park with nice picnic benches scattered around the pretty, treed grounds was less commercialized than Moaning Caverns, which is in the same area, and is well worth the entrance fee. They have a nice gift shop with bathrooms and it is a very clean and well kept park.

We've been to several caves in our lives. We went with our 12 and 9 year old boys. The standard cave tour is actually more interesting than our prior ones, simply b/c the walk though provides really narrow paths and low ceilings. There is gem mining (lots of precious and semi-precious stones to be found) and geode cracking. Our guide Derrek, was kind and patient. For the more adventurous types (and those with good laundry detergent), there are adventure trips available.Bottom line: nice cave, things to do, fun; NO FOOD AVAILABLE!