Photo courtesy Tom Rea

The IKC purchased Wayne Cave on July 2, 2003. The property consists of 20 acres overlying the entrance and much of the cave passage. Wayne Cave is currently the 9th-longest cave system in Indiana, and is considered one of the "classic" Indiana caves.

The IKC has leased and managed access to this cave since 1986. The IKC continues to allow appropriate access to various cavers and groups including church, scout, and educational organizations. Proper caving equipment is required, along with an understanding that the cave must be protected -- "leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time." As with the IKC's other cave preserves, foot traffic access by the general public is allowed for hiking, nature watching, mushroom hunting, and other low-impact surface activities. The property has numerous sinkholes and other karst features of interest. Refer to the management plan for more details regarding access policy.

At the annual business meeting of March 27 2004, a few more donations were received such that the initial purchase is now fully funded. The IKC is proud to own this significant cave resource and is grateful to everyone who contributed. We would like to particularly recognize the following people and organizations who donated $5000 or more: the Central Indiana Grotto, the IPALCO Golden Eagle Grant program, Bob Decker, and Richard Blenz.

Although the IKC is no longer actively soliciting donations for this property, there remains the need to fix up the property (see more photos) and rebuild our cave acquisition fund. If you have visited Wayne Cave and enjoyed what it has to offer, your tax-deductible donation would be greatly appreciated. Please send your check to the following address:

Checks should be payable to the "Indiana Karst Conservancy." Credit card donations may also be made using our secure server. The IKC greatly appreciates your support!

Questions or suggestions may be directed to:

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