Discover PA’s Largest Stalagmite and More at Woodward Cave

Discover PA’s Largest Stalagmite and More at Woodward Cave

If you’re on the hunt for a unique travel experience that combines natural wonder, a dash of history, and a taste of adventure, look no further than Woodward Cave in Centre County, Pennsylvania. This sprawling limestone cavern is one of the largest in the state and has been welcoming curious visitors since 1926.

Address: 147 Woodward Cave Dr, Woodward, PA 16882

Category: Roadside Attraction

Duration: About 1 hour

Directions and Hours

Woodward Cave is located at 147 Woodward Cave Dr, Woodward, PA 16882. The cave is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with tours running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The guided tours at last about 50 minutes and are perfect for explorers of all ages. 

Tickets can be purchased online with prices ranging from $17 for adults and $9 for children aged 3-12.

One thing to note: the cave stays a constant 48°F  so pack a light jacket, even if it’s blazing hot outside.

Most of the cave is accessible by wheelchair and walker, though there is one area with stairs that are not ADA navigable.

Be sure to check Woodward Cave’s website for the latest ticket prices, hours of operation, and other guidelines. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea, especially during peak seasons.

Exterior of the Woodward Cave

A Geological Wonder

As you enter the cave, you are greeted by a stone wall and slatted metal gate. A gate that is designed to let bats easily fly in and out of the cave. The guides share fascinating tidbits about the cave’s geology and history. The paths are easy to navigate, so it’s an ideal intro to caving if you’re new to the scene.

A rugged cave wall caused by swift moving water

The story of Woodward Cave actually began over 400 million years ago, when the area was submerged beneath a shallow sea. Over eons, the slow but persistent work of water dissolved the limestone bedrock, carving out massive chambers and intricate passageways. A fascinating sight are the shell fossils and even a trilobite fossil within one of the cave ceilings!

A trilobite fossil within the ceiling

The tour features five major rooms, each with its own distinct character and geological features. A notable stop is the Ballroom, where the smooth floor and natural acoustics once made it a popular site for dances and gatherings.

One of the many rooms and corridors within the cave

The stones are lit with lights strung throughout the cave. One of the many dramatically lit stones is this “dead” stalagmite. It is considered “dead” as it is no longer growing. It once grew higher up in the cave and was broken off and washed down from the upper cave. Some guides even let tours touch the smooth stone since it will not cause damage.

A large “dead” stalagmite

Everywhere you look, the cave is adorned with stalactites hanging from the ceiling like stone icicles. Stalagmites rise from the floor like ancient statues. In some areas, they’ve been growing toward each other for so long that they’ve finally met to form impressive columns and pillars.

Stalactites hanging within the cave

Secrets Beneath the Surface

The cave is full of curiosities and captivating geological marvels. Your guide will point out flowstone, soda straws, and other delicate formations slowly crafted by dripping mineral-rich water over thousands of years.

The inner rings of a stalactite

Hidden in the quieter corners are small crystal-clear pools, where water collects and slowly deposits calcite along the edges. These pools sometimes contain delicate crystal formations that sparkle in the light, creating a hidden world of natural wonder that rewards careful observation.

A small calcite pool

The Tower of Babel, Pennsylvania’s largest known stalagmite, towers at an impressive 14 feet. It’s a testament to the slow, patient artistry of dripping water and mineral deposits. Local Seneca Indian legend tells of Red Panther, a Seneca warrior who defied the Storm God by cutting down a sacred Beech Tree. As he lit the fire to burn it, lightning struck from a clear sky, killing him instantly. His body was placed within the cave, where dripping water turned it to stone, forever preserving the warning against defying the sacred tree.

The Tower of Babel Stalagmite

Woodward’s Bat Habitat

Woodward Cave serves as a critical refuge for several bat species. The cave closes for tours in winter to protect hibernating bats drawn to its ideal conditions. White Nose Syndrome, a fungal disease, nearly decimated the bat population in the early 2010s. Since then, Woodward Cave works with the PA Game Commission to treat the cave and protect the bats. Today, the bat population over the winter has grown back to over 1000!

A bat near the entrance of Woodward Cave

Beyond the Cave

What sets Woodward Cave apart from other caverns is its 13-acre campground. It’s the perfect scenic retreat nestled in Pennsylvania’s Appalachian Ridge and Valley region. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or cozying up in a cabin rental, it’s the perfect base for extending your adventure into the surrounding area. The campground is open from April to October and offers modern perks like hot showers, dumping station, and a camping store.

Final Thoughts

Woodward Cave delivers stunning natural beauty and a welcoming vibe that makes it accessible to everyone. It has recently become under new ownership and there are big, exciting plans for the future of the site as it gears up to celebrate 100 years in 2026. This is a place that you definitely don’t want to sleep on in the years ahead!

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