Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, offers a one-of-a-kind adventure featuring America’s only all-water cave tour and a wildlife park home to native North American animals. Visitors can glide through ancient limestone caverns by boat, embark on guided wildlife tours, pan for gemstones, and enjoy scenic trails — all in one unforgettable destination. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and geology enthusiasts, this attraction blends education, entertainment, and natural beauty in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds.
Penn’s Cave stands out as America’s only all-water cavern that can be toured exclusively by boat. Located in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, the cave offers a truly distinctive underground experience where visitors glide through a subterranean world carved by nature. Unlike traditional walking cave tours, Penn’s Cave immerses guests in a guided boat ride that follows a natural limestone passageway, allowing for a serene and immersive exploration of the cave’s interior.
The 45- to 50-minute guided boat tour is the centerpiece of the Penn’s Cave experience. Guests board flat-bottom boats that navigate the underground stream, winding through cathedral-like chambers illuminated to showcase the stunning natural features. Skilled guides provide informative narration, explaining the cave’s geology, history, and local legends—including the tale of Princess Nita-nee, whose story is said to be linked to the region’s folklore.
The boat exits the cave briefly through a manmade opening at the far end, offering a glimpse of the surrounding countryside before turning back to complete the return journey underground. This element adds a unique dual perspective of both the subterranean and surface landscapes.
Penn’s Cave is a classic example of a solutional cave, formed over millions of years by the dissolving action of slightly acidic groundwater on the region’s limestone bedrock. Inside, visitors encounter an array of awe-inspiring geological formations. Stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and draperies adorn the cavern walls and ceilings, their shapes and textures sculpted by centuries of mineral deposits.
One of the most photographed features is the “Statue of Liberty” formation, a naturally occurring limestone column that bears an uncanny resemblance to the iconic American symbol. Other formations are named for their likenesses to animals, objects, and mythical figures, sparking the imagination of guests of all ages.
Navigating Penn’s Cave by boat offers a rare opportunity to experience cave exploration in a tranquil, accessible manner. The underground stream that powers the boat tour flows from the cave’s natural spring, which has been a source of fresh water since the 19th century. The constant flow of water has helped preserve the cave’s formations and maintain a cool, consistent temperature of around 52°F (11°C) year-round.
The cave’s lighting system is strategically placed to enhance visibility while preserving the natural environment. Guides often pause at key formations and chambers to provide detailed explanations, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate beauty and complexity of the cave system.
This combination of natural wonder, serene boat travel, and educational storytelling makes the cave experience at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park a standout attraction for geology enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park offers a dynamic outdoor experience that complements its underground wonders with a scenic, educational, and interactive wildlife park. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Pennsylvania's central countryside, the wildlife park is home to a wide range of native North American animals and provides a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a naturalistic setting.
The wildlife park at Penn's Cave showcases a variety of animals native to the region, allowing visitors to encounter species rarely seen up close in the wild. Among the animals typically featured are:
The animals reside in spacious enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats, promoting both animal welfare and an authentic viewing experience.
A signature feature of the park is the fully guided, 90-minute Farm-Nature-Wildlife Tour. Conducted via a specially designed bus or open-air vehicle, this narrated tour takes visitors across 1,600 acres of Penn’s Cave farmland, offering panoramic views of the central Pennsylvania landscape while stopping at various points to observe animals and learn about their behaviors, habitats, and role in the ecosystem.
The tour not only provides photo-worthy moments but also offers insights into animal conservation, environmental stewardship, and the importance of protecting native species.
Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park is committed to conservation and education. The park participates in breeding programs for certain species and works to raise awareness about the challenges faced by native wildlife. Educational signage, interactive displays, and knowledgeable guides offer visitors of all ages a chance to deepen their understanding of animal biology, conservation practices, and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
School field trips, scout programs, and educational workshops are regularly held, making the park a valuable resource for experiential learning.
Depending on the time of year, visitors may also be able to witness seasonal animal behaviors such as mating displays, antler shedding, or the birth of young animals. Spring and early summer are particularly active times in the wildlife park, offering a vibrant and lively experience for guests.
These seasonal changes make the park a repeat-worthy destination, as no two visits are exactly the same.
The wildlife tours are designed to accommodate guests of varying mobility levels. The park offers accessible vehicles and ensures that walkways and observation points are easy to navigate. Shaded viewing areas and rest stops are also available along the tour route, providing comfort during warmer months.
With its blend of education, conservation, and adventure, the wildlife park at Penn’s Cave offers a memorable and enriching experience that appeals to families, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.
Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park is located in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, nestled in the scenic heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds region. The park is easily accessible by car and is approximately 18 miles from State College, home to Penn State University. Visitors arriving from farther afield can fly into University Park Airport (SCE), which is about a 30-minute drive from the park.
Onsite parking is ample and free of charge. Visitors should follow GPS directions to 222 Penn's Cave Road, Centre Hall, PA 16828, and look for signage upon arrival.
Penn's Cave operates seasonally, with varying hours depending on the time of year. In general, the park is open from mid-March through late November. Standard hours during peak season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day) are:
During spring and fall, hours may be reduced, and the park may close earlier. It's recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule, especially during off-peak months or inclement weather.
Ticket prices vary depending on the attractions you choose to experience. Visitors can purchase individual tickets or combo passes to include both the cave tour and wildlife park. As of the 2025 season, general admission prices are as follows:
Children under 2 are typically admitted free for most tours. Group rates are available for 20 or more guests with advance reservations.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the visitor center upon arrival. However, booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, and summer months, as tours often fill quickly.
The best time to visit Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park is during the late spring through early fall when all attractions are fully operational and the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploration. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience.
Autumn is a particularly scenic time to visit, with the surrounding landscape bursting into vibrant fall colors. Wildlife activity also increases during this season, enhancing the experience of the wildlife park tour.
Penn's Cave is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. The visitor center, gift shop, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible. The boat tour through the cave is also accessible to those with limited mobility, though guests should note that boarding the boat may require minimal assistance.
The wildlife tour is conducted via a guided bus that accommodates most guests; however, those with specific needs should contact the park in advance to ensure accommodations are available.
Service animals are permitted in the visitor center and other designated areas, but they are not allowed on the boat tour or wildlife bus due to safety and animal welfare concerns.
The park offers a variety of amenities to enhance your visit, including:
For families with young children, strollers are permitted in most areas, and baby-changing stations are available within restrooms.
While Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park is best known for its unique all-water cavern tour and native wildlife exhibits, visitors can enjoy a variety of additional activities that enhance the overall experience. These offerings are designed to appeal to families, school groups, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
A family favorite, Prospector Pete’s Gemstone Panning offers a hands-on activity where visitors can try their luck at uncovering semi-precious stones. Guests receive a bag of mining rough and sift it through a running water sluice, just like early prospectors. This fun and educational experience teaches participants about different minerals and geology, making it a popular stop for kids and adults.
After a day of exploring, guests can unwind at the Cave Café, which offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. The café provides both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a pleasant spot to relax. Adjacent to the café is the Penn’s Cave Gift Shop, where visitors can browse a wide range of souvenirs, including educational toys, local crafts, branded apparel, and unique rock and mineral specimens.
Throughout the wildlife park, designated feeding stations allow visitors to observe native animals up close during feeding times. Park staff provide informative talks about the animals’ diets, behaviors, and habitats. These sessions offer a deeper understanding of the wildlife and promote awareness about conservation efforts.
For those who enjoy being outdoors, Penn’s Cave features well-maintained nature trails that wind through picturesque areas of the property. These trails provide opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful walks amid Central Pennsylvania’s natural beauty. Some paths lead to scenic overlooks that provide panoramic views of the surrounding ridgelines and forests.
This 90-minute guided tour aboard a specially designed bus takes visitors through Penn’s Cave’s sprawling grounds, including the working farm and wildlife habitats. Along the way, guests may encounter bison, elk, wolves, bears, and longhorn cattle. The tour emphasizes the interconnectedness of agriculture and wildlife conservation, making it both entertaining and informative.
Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park is a popular destination for school field trips, scout groups, and educational tours. The park offers customized workshops aligned with science and environmental education standards. These programs cover topics such as geology, biodiversity, and conservation. Group events can also be arranged with advance notice, including behind-the-scenes tours and private presentations.
With its dramatic underground formations, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes, Penn’s Cave offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras for a chance to capture everything from cave reflections to majestic elk in natural settings. The park’s tranquil surroundings make it a great spot for nature photography and family portraits.
Throughout the year, Penn’s Cave hosts a number of seasonal events, such as Halloween-themed cave tours, wildlife festivals, and springtime nature weekends. These events offer themed experiences that bring new life to the park and engage the community. Seasonal decorations, interactive exhibits, and live demonstrations make these events especially enjoyable for returning visitors.
For those looking to expand their outing, Penn’s Cave is conveniently located near several other attractions in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. Nearby state parks offer hiking, kayaking, and camping, while local towns feature antique shops, farmers markets, and historical landmarks. This makes Penn’s Cave a perfect starting point for a full day or weekend of exploration.
Whether you're planning a short visit or a full-day adventure, the additional activities at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park offer plenty of ways to engage, learn, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park is typically open from mid-March through late November, with hours that vary by season. During peak summer months (June through August), the park generally operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In spring and fall, hours are more limited, often closing earlier in the afternoon. It’s strongly recommended to check the official Penn’s Cave website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date operating hours, especially during holidays or inclement weather.
Admission is segmented by attraction, and combo tickets are available for visitors wishing to experience both the cave and wildlife park:
Online reservations are recommended during peak seasons, as tours can sell out quickly.
The best times to visit Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park are during the late spring and early fall months when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are more manageable. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, providing a more relaxed touring experience. Early morning tours are also ideal for avoiding peak visitor traffic and for a better chance of seeing active wildlife.
Fall is especially popular due to the colorful foliage across the Pennsylvania Wilds, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities and tours.
Penn’s Cave strives to be accessible to all guests, though certain limitations are inherent to the natural environment:
Planning ahead and contacting guest services before your visit is the best way to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all members of your group.
Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park offers a rich blend of underground exploration, wildlife encounters, and educational fun in a naturally stunning environment. Whether you're seeking a weekend family adventure or a unique stop in Pennsylvania’s countryside, this destination promises something for everyone. Plan ahead, book your tours early, and get ready to experience one of the region’s most captivating attractions. Ready to discover it all? Start planning your visit today!
