(last updated May 10, 2008)
"WHITE NOSE SYNDROME" CAVE CLOSURES
 
Something is killing bats in the Northeast.  The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service have issued a list of West Virginia caves that are closed or should be avoided to reduce the possibility of spreading this problem to West Virginia's significant bat caves.  

This problem has been given the name "White Nose  Syndrome."  Much more information about it is available at these links:
   http://www.fws.gov/northeast/white_nose.html
   http://www.white-nose.info

It is not known how long the West Virginia caves will be closed.  Please check this list before you plan a trip to see if the caves you plan to visit are open.  Your cooperation is appreciated.

If a cave you want to visit is marked with "WNS Closure" please do not go to it.

Maryland
Allegany County, MD
DEVILS HOLE CE** (May87) Owner fears litigation.
MURLEY CZZZ (Apr84) Water supply.

Garrett County, MD
CRABTREE CDGR (Nov99) Owned by Nature Conservancy. Call Donnelle Keech (301-656-8673) for access info.  Closed Labor Day - May 15.
JOHN FRIEND CDGR (Nov99) Same status as Crabtree.  Closed Labor Day - May 15.

Washington County, MD
HOGMAW CE** (Sep93) Closed by new owner.
RUHRERVILLE COL. CE** (Sep93) Same status as Hogmaw.

North Carolina
Henderson County, NC
BAT CAVE SYS. CW*R (Mar89) Controlled by Nature Conservancy, some science trips may be allowed

Tennessee
Carter County, TN
BLUE SPRING CDGZ (Apr84) Gated, Holston Valley has key.
CARTER COUNTY CRYSTAL ZZZZ (Apr08) access status unknown.
ROCK HOUSE ZZZZ (Apr84) Water supply (is it closed???).

Claiborne County, TN
COONSIES CREEK CE** (Feb99) owner concerned about liability.
ENGLISH CT** (Aug97) known Indiana bat population.
JOHN LAIRD CE** (Nov98) water supply.
WHITE BUIS CE** (Feb 99) known bat population.

Johnson County, TN
JOSH HOLE LNZZ (Apr84) Closed in winter for bats.

Sullivan County, TN
APPALACHIAN CAVERNS OAG* (Aug97) commercial cave.
MORRELS (WORLEYS) LAGV (Aug01) gated, see on-site owner to sign waiver & pay parking fee.

Virginia
Alleghany County, VA
 CARTERS CE** (Apr08) Owner worried about liability.
LOCOMOTIVE BREATH CE** (Apr08) Trespassers may be arrested.
LOWMOOR CE** (Apr08) Closed, posted, & enforced.
PAXTON OOGR (Apr08) Sign in at log book on front porch.  Absolutely no “cave for pay” groups.
WARM RIVER CE** (Apr08) Strict closure by new owner.

Augusta County, VA
BARTERBROOK SPR CE** (Sep83) Closed and gated; water supply.
BLUE HOLE CEF- (Sep94) Cave is a water supply.
FOUNTAIN LUG* (Apr08) Owner is Upper Valley Park Auth. at Grand Caverns. Access for educational groups only.
GRAND CAVERNS LAG* (Apr08) Also known as Weyer's.
MADISON SALTPETER CWGR (Apr08) Gated. Endangered species all year, not bats. Contact CCV for access info.
NEFFS LXZZ (Sep83) Status update needed!
STAUNTON QUARRY CZZZ (Sep83) Status update needed!

Bath County, VA
BLOWING LX*R (Jan01) Open to NSS members who ask permission for each trip.  Park across the road from the cave, not on the same side.
BOBCAT LDGG (Jul88) Owned by BCCS.
BREATHING LE*V (Mar05) Old CCC access rd to cave closed. All entering cave must sign in at owner's house. CLOSED 2 weeks of rifle deer season! Do not drive on property or block gate.
BUTLER-SINKING CREEK LDGV (Sep90) BCCS control.
CLARKS LS*V (Oct05)  Contact owner for permission, parking info.  Must sign in at owner’s house. You cannot walk down road to cave entrances anymore; you must rappel in.
CROSSROADS OD** (Apr08)  Cave is owned by VSS, open to cavers.  Park in the parking lot near the cave entrance.
PORTERS LXGR (Apr08) Ask entry permission from owner.
STARR CHAPEL CEG* (Jul99) gated, Closed 1 Sep - 15 May (bats).
WILLIAMS CXGR (Mar85) U Va Grotto manages cave, trips limited to friends of owner & UVa trips.
WITHEROS CN*R (May05) Closed 1 Sep - 15 May.  Owners permission required for summer access.

Bland County, VA
BANES SPRINGCT*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct.1 – Apr. 30.  Owner’s permission required for summer access.
BUDDY PENLEY CT*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct.1 – April 30.  Owner’s permission required for summer access.
COONCT*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct.1 – Apr. 30.  Owner’s permission required for summer access.
MATACHOCK CX*G (Apr08) Very limited access allowed.  Do NOT contact the landowners for access.  Contact Don Anderson for additional info.
NEWBERRY-BANES CT*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct.1 – Apr. 30.  Owner’s permission required for summer access.
PAUL PENLEYS LT*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct.1 – April 30.  Owner’s permission required for summer access.
REPASS SALTPETERCE*R  (Apr08)  Cave closed Oct. 1 - Apr. 30.  Requires contact in advance and special arrangements for summer trip.
SPRING HOLLOW CXZR (Apr08) Skydusky Hollow area. Owner tired of vandalis.

Botetourt County, VA
CATAWBA MURDER HOLE LX*R  (Apr08)   Trespassers will be prosecuted. Lower levels of cave (hibernaculum) are closed to protect bats from WNS. Owner must inspect, approve caving/vertical gear before trip. Owner must be present on all cave trips.
EAGLE ROCK QUARRY CAVES CE** (Apr08) Access no longer allowed, owner concerned about liability.
PERRY SALTPETER CE*Z (Apr08) Trepassers prosecuted; bat hibernaculum in winter.

Craig County, VA
NEWCASTLE MURDER HOLE LS*R (Apr08) MUST sign owner's log book.
PANTHER CAVE LW*R (Jan83) Status update needed!
RUFE CALDWELL CN*G (Apr08) Closed 1 Sep - 15 May for bats. Contact Blue Ridge Grotto for access info. 504-989-7693.
SHIRES SALTPETER CUGZ (Apr08) gated in 1995.  On NF land.  Winter bats, some access May - Aug.

Frederick County, VA
BEANS CEF* (Apr83) Violators will, and have been, prosecuted. Status update needed!
OGDENSLUGV*  (Apr08) VA-DCR now owns cave.  Contact Wil Orndorff 540-394-2552 for access info.

Giles County, VA
CANOE CE** (Sep89) Gate destroyed, owner sensitive.
CLOVER HOLLOW LO*G (Apr08) Access through the Bat Ranch.  Contact Mike Newsome 540-626-3386.
NEW RIVER LO*V (Apr08) Posted, for access info contact Tim Kilby, owner, 703-273-4513.
PIG HOLE LE** (Apr08) Owner allows experienced vertical cavers only, no novices.  Cavers must sign in and out (via logbook).
SALAMANDER CX*G (Oct02) Very limited access allowed.  Do NOT contact the landowners for access.  Contact Don Anderson for additional info.
SALTPETER LE** (Oct05) access allowed, but ask new owner for access permission.
SMOKEHOLE LS*R  (Apr08) Owner is upset that his fences have been damaged.  Contact landowner for access permission.
STAY HIGH O*** (Apr08) Cave owned by VA-DCR.  Contact Wil Orndorff 540-394-2552 for access info.
TAWNEYS LEGG (Apr08) road entr now gated. See www.vpicaveclub.org/Tawneys for info.  Key contact is Mike Newsome 540-626-3386.  Sinkhole entr only open by permission.

Highland County, VA
ARBEGAST SALTPETER CE** (Sep02) Owner's insurance company requested cave closure.
BLUEGRASS CE** (Sep02)
CAVE RUN #1 & #2 CE** (Sep02)
CRUMMETT & LITTLE CRUMMETT CE** (Sep02)
CRYSTAL PIT CE** (Sep02) Entr. covered by rocks.
DEAD SHEEP HOLE C*P* (Aug97) closed by rock.
FIVE SPRINGS LWGG (Sep02)
HEVENERS #1 C*P* (Sep02) closed by rock.
HUPMANS SALTPETER CUZ* (Sep02) Bat cave, closed all year by VA Game & Fishery Dept.
ICE WATER CEP* (Sep02)closed by concrete dam.
LANTZ MTN HILLSIDE CE** (Sep02) owner worried about liability.
LANTZ MTN QUARRY CE** (Sep02) owner worried about liability.
MCDOWELL FILL C*P* (Aug97) closed by rock & earth fill.
MUSTOE ULCER CE** (Mar93) Status update needed!
MOSQUITO CE** (Sep02) Status update needed!
PARSONAGE CE** (Sep02) Status update needed!
REXRODES FISSURE C*P* (Sep02) closed by a rock.
RUCKMAN CE** (Sep02)
SAWMILL C*P* (Sep02) closed by rock & earth fill.
STRAIGHT CREEK ROCK SHELTERS #1 & #2 CE** (Sep02)
VANDEVANDER CEG* (Mar08) owner tired of being bothered by cavers.

Lee County, VA
(Numerous caves in the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park have status OW*R (Sep83): CLIFF, CUMBERLAND GAP QUARRY, CUMBERLAND GAP SALTPETER, GRASSY SPRING, INDIAN, LEWIS BRANCH BRIDGE, LEWIS HOLLOW, LITTLE SALTPETER, SKYLIGHT, TURTLE, and WHITE ROCKS).
FISHERS CE** (Sep00) closure enforced by owner.
GALLOHAN #1 CX*R (Jan90)
GAP (formerly CUDJOS) LWG* (Apr08) owned by CGNHP, check with them about access.
GIBSON-FRAZIER CXGR (Apr08) Closed, gated.
GILLEY OO** (Aug97) open, ask permission.
INDIAN BURIAL CEG* (Feb98) gated in 1998 to preserve indian remains & prevent vandalism.
JONES SALTPETER CE** (Aug97)
LUCY BEATTY CE** (Sep83) cave is a water supply.
UNTHANKS CDGR  (Apr08) Owned by VA-DCR.  Contact Wil Orndorff 540-394-2552 for access info.

Montgomery County, VA
JAMES CX**  (Apr08)  Open to cavers.  Closed to Scouts, church, school, “adventure”, etc. groups.
SLUSSERS CHAPEL CE** (Apr08) Biological preserve, no access allowed.

Page County, VA
LURAY CAVERNS LWG* (Jan88) Commercial cave, very limited access.
RUFFNER #1 CZZZ (Jan88) On Luray property, contact Luray Caverns.

Pulaski County, VA
BONEMOUTH/COVEYS CE** (Mar95)
COPENHAVERS CE** (Mar95)
MAZE CE** (Mar95) Contact New River Valley Grotto for access info.

Roanoke County, VA
BLANKENSHIP CS*Z (Apr08) Owner won't permit entry.
DIXIE CAVERNS LAG* (Apr08) Commercial cave.
GOODWINS LDGG (Apr08) Gated, violators prosecuted, contact David Socky at 540-989-7693 for access info.
LAYMANS CE** (Apr08) Owner does not permit entry.
MILLERS COVE LU*R (Apr08) Owned by Jeff. Nat Forest. Get landowner permission to cross to NF land.
NEW DIXIE CXGR (Apr08) Dixie's insurance co won't permit entry. Gated ca. 1992.

Rockbridge County, VA
BELL C*P* (Apr08) entr filled in 1990's, area being developed.
BUCK HILL LAG* (Apr08) Commercial cave (Natural Bridge Caverns).
CASH CXZ* (Apr08) owners may allow access to cavers they know.
CAVE SPRING CXGR (Apr08) Gated; sensitive owner relations.
DOLL HOUSE CE** (Apr08) Closed by Natural Bridge.
GRAHAMS CE** (Apr08) owner died recently, relatives no longer allow access.
SHOWALTERS C*P* (Apr08) Cave filled with dirt & rocks.
SWINKS COZR (Apr08) Owner allows access for science & mapping only.
TOLLEYS CE** (Apr08) Owner worried about liability.
TURKEY HILL CEG* (Apr08) Cave is a water supply.  Bad air has been encountered.
WINDMILL DEEP LO*P (Apr08) Contact owner prior to entry.

Rockingham County, VA
3-D MAZE LO*R (Feb97) Ask owner Calvin Sheets for permission & approach cave from the north, not south across fields.
CEDAR HILL CE** (Oct02) owner tired of access requests, please don't bother him.
DEVILS HOLE CS** (Feb93) Owner tired of people sneaking in cave & being bothered.
ENDLESS CAVERNS CAG* (Jul96) Commercial cave, closed to wild trips.
HOLSINGERS CE** (Oct02) owner tired of access requests, please don't bother him.
LINVILLE QUARRY L**V (Oct90)
LYLES PIT LO*R (Feb97) Ask owner Calvin Sheets for permission & approach cave from the north, not south across fields.
MAD STEER CE** (Oct91) New owner, cave now closed.
MASSANUTTEN CAVERNS LAG* (Dec83) Check with SVG or CCV for info.
MELROSE CAVERNS C*P* (Apr08) Owner fed up with vandals.
ROUND HILL     LXZZ (Apr08)  Access only for science, mapping .
SUGAR NUT CE** (Sep02) sensitive owner relations, cave is "essentially closed".

Russell County, VA
INDIAN C*P* (Feb93) Entr. bulldozed shut.
JESSIE CE** (Dec91) New owner threatening to bulldoze both entrances shut.

Scott County, VA
BLAIR-COLLINS LOZZ (Apr84) Open only if you get owner's permission.
BOLLING LU*R (Aug97) state park runs wild tours.
DANIEL BOONE CAVERN LXGR (Aug97)
LANE CAVE (RED HILL) LX*R (Aug97)
NATURAL TUNNEL LU*R (Aug97) in State Park.
NATURAL TUNNEL SHELTERS LU*R (Aug97) in State Park.
NATURAL TUNNEL CAVE LU*R (Aug97) in State Park.

Shenandoah County, VA
CRYSTAL CAVERNS AT HUPPS HILL CEG* (Apr08) Commercial cave, open 10-4 daily. (Formerly named Battlefield Crystal Caverns).
CLICKS CE*R (Jun99) closed Oct 1 - Apr 15 for bats, open to NSS members (only) with permission at other times.
FLEMMINGS CE** (May91)
HELSLEY CE** (May87) Owner building new house, wants no cavers.
HENSLEYS CE** (May87) House on cave, cave sealed shut.
SHENANDOAH CAVERN LAGR (Jan88) access for science and mapping only.
SHENANDOAH WILD CXGR (Oct87) trespassers have been arrested.

Smyth County, VA
BUCHANNAN SALTPETER LO** (Apr05) Can be visited only with permission of owner.
GRINSTEAD CE** (Apr92) owner's house next to entr, see Dave Hubbard for more info.
HANCOCK OO*R  (Apr08) New, friendly owner, often on property.  Owner’s permission required for access.
INTERSTATE 81 CUGV  (Apr08)  Owned by VDOT.  Cave is closed, scientific access only. Rumors of entrance bulldozed untrue.
TILSONS SALTPETER CE** (Apr05) Owner won't allow access.

Tazewell County, VA
BLOWING CE*R (Dec91) Owner is Fla church group, written permission req for entry.
CASSEL FARM CN** (Jan90) Closed all year by VAR (bats).
CORKSCREWLW*R  (Apr08)   Access for science and mapping only.
FALLEN ROCK CD*R (Jan90) Requires letter from J. Holsinger.
HIGGENBOTHAMS #1 (DEVILS SLIDE) LE*R (Aug02) New Owners are Arvil B. Coxton Sr. or Angela M. Coxton.  Written permission must be obtained from owner to enter.
HIGGENBOTHAMS #2 LE*R (Aug02) same status as #1 above.
HUGH YOUNG CW*R (Jan90) Letter from J. Holsinger needed.
STONLEYS (DIVIDES) CE** (Nov83) Status update needed!
WARD COVE CAVES (and caves in the immediate vicinity) CE** (Sep83) Property lessee won't permit trespassers. Status update needed!

Warren County, VA
CURL CRAWL CAVE CE** (Dec05) On National Park property, sometimes has bad air, blasting in the area due to nearby school construction.
FRONT ROYAL CAVERNS CEG* (Dec05) gated to protect Madison Cave isopod.  Blasting in the area due to nearby school construction.
SKYLINE CAVERNS LW*R (Apr08) Commercial cave.

Washington County, VA
PERKINS LDGV (Apr05) managed by Appalachian Cave Conservancy.  Some restrictions for entry.  E-mail john@acave.us for info.
VICKERS CE** (Apr05) Owner concerned about caver safety.

Wise County, VA
KELLY LU*R (Jan90) Owned by Jefferson NF, Request landowner permission to cross to NF land.
OMEGALD*G  (Apr08)  Part of Powell Mt. Karst Preserve.  Owned by CCV.
ROCKY HOLLOW CW*G (Aug97) winter closure for bats.

West Virginia
Berkeley County, WV
ANDERSON CE** (Mar07) Owned by nearby auto salvage yard. Does not allow entry to cave.
APPLEJACK C*P* (Sep83) Status update needed!
BENDERS LEZ* (Mar07) Owned by nearby trucking firm. Obtain permission from trucking firm.
CRICKET MAZE LEGR (Dec95) Managed by Cricket Maze Cave Assoc.
DONALDSON LDGG (Apr08) Owned by WVCC.  Gated in Sept. 2003.  Tri-State Grotto controls access.
DUPONT A & B C*PZ (Apr84) Status update needed!
HEITTS C*PZ (Apr84) Status update needed!
INDIAN RIVER O*** (Apr96) Same status & rules as Whitings Neck.
INWOOD C*P* (May87) Cave physically closed.
JONES QUARRY LEG* (Mar07) Contact owner ahead of time for permission before visiting cave - Tri-State Grotto no longer has info. All "old" keys will not work - Owner & caretaker have only keys.
NESTLE QUARRY LEG*  (Apr08)  New owner allows entry with permission. Possible bad air (CO2) reported in Dec. 2006.
PIG C*P* (Mar07) Cave is physically closed.
SILERS CEG* (Apr08) cave is gated and closed to all visitors by new owner.
STANDARD QUARRY CE*Z (Apr84) Status update needed!
WHITINGS NECK O*** (Jul06) cave open. Park & walk from Yankauer Nature Preserve, 1/2 mile S of cave on Newton School Rd. Do NOT park on any property near the cave.  Be quiet near entr due to new house nearby.  Do NOT park buses or other large vehicles in the Nature Preserve parking lot.  Take them elsewhere (like Martinsburg) until your group is scheduled to leave the cave.

Grant County, WV
ELKHORN MOUNTAIN (MONGOLD) [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LE*R (Feb08) Closed June 15 - Oct 15 for bats.  Permission REQUIRED  for entry.  Contact Linda Devine or Tim McDougle (mccave@citlink.net) for access permission.
PEACOCK [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CE** (Feb08) Closed all year for bats, cave is on USFS land.

Greenbrier County, WV
ACME QUARRY CEZZ (Jan00) new owners, land posted, owners say cave is closed.
BENEDICTS (Persinger Entrance) OD** (Apr04) Cave open, but contact WVCC for driving and parking directions at www.wvcc.net.
BOAR HOLE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.  The cave is open, except that the passage heading toward The Portal is closed due to the WNS situation.
BONE-NORMAN O***  (Apr08)  Open to cavers. Parking space is limited, be sure that all wheels of vehicles are completely off the road surface.
BUCKEYE CREEK LE*R (Aug05) WVACS members (only) can enter without permission.  Others must check in at house across the street.
COFFMAN CX*Z (Sep83) Status update needed!
CRICKET CZZZ (Dec94) Entr. rumored(?) to be filled in.
CROOKSHANK (Entr to Friars Hole System) LT*R (Oct98) same status as Friars Hole System (Pocahontas County).
CULVERSON CREEK O*** (Apr08) Contact Bill Balfour 304-497-0859 bal4karst@hotmail.com for access info.
DEEMS (ORGAN) OD*G (Apr08).  Contact Ed Swepston 304-645-6984 for permission and trip arrangements.
ERWINS (ORGAN) ZZZZ (Jun98) access info needed.
FOX CAVE LS*R (Sep95) Max group size of 3 people.
FOXHOLE #1 CE** (Oct99) Very unfriendly landowner.
GENERAL DAVIS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CDGR (Feb08) Gated to protect very rare salamander & small bat colony. Contact WV Chapter of Nature Conservancy, 304-345-4350.
GREAT ESCAPE (ORGAN) CE** (Oct98) very unfriendly landowner.
HEDRICKS (ORGAN) CE** (Oct98) very unfriendly landowner.
HIGGINBOTHAMS O**R (Apr01) Get permission from owner on property & sign owner's log book.
HUMPHREYS LW*R (Jan00) Very limited access to experienced vertical caves.  Ask first.
LIPPS (ORGAN) ODFG   (Apr08).  Open, very limited parking, don't block
the road.  Be considerate of the new fence.  Contact Ed Swepston
304-645-6984 or eswepston@hotmail.com for permission and trip arrangements.
LOST WORLD CAG* (Jun98) Commercial cave.
LUDINGTON CE** (Apr05) Bell entr now definitely closed by owner, don't even ask for access.  Ludington entr now considered closed because owner recently died.
MASTERS (ORGAN) ZZZZ (Jun98) access info needed.
MCCLUNGS (Freeman Entrance) CE**    (Aug07) Closed. Contact WVCC for latest info, but consider using Lightner Entrance for access instead.  Do NOT contact the current owner (he does not want to be bothered by anyone, especially cavers).
MCCLUNGS (Lightner Entrance) O*** (Jan08) Lightners entr (vertical) owned by WVCC and open to qualified vertical cavers.  Park near the WVCC kiosk and don't drive to the cave.
MAXWELTON SINK C*P* (Apr08) new entr leased by WVCC.  Open for survey & scientific work only.  Permission needed in advance.  See www.maxweltongeosolutions.com/cave/resourcesSinkCave.html for info and contact Jeff Bray for project info.  All other entrances physically closed.
ORGAN CAVE (main entrance) LEGR (Aug05) Access for experienced cavers is usually allowed.  Ask the owners ahead of time.  No carbide allowed.
PIERCYS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CD** (Feb 08) Owned by Nature Conservancy, closed 1 Sep - 1 May (bats), contact Monroe County Cavers for access info.
PIERCYS MILL OO** (Oct07) Speak with resident, Mr. Steve Cole, upon arrival at cave.  If not home, leave a note with the number of people on trip.
THE PORTAL [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
RAPPS CAVE CEGG (Mar06) Entrance leased by WVCC.  Contact WVCC for access info.
RUBBER CHICKEN (entrance to Friars Hole) CEP* (Oct98) entrance sealed with flood debris & owner allows no access.
SINKS OF THE RUNZZZZ (Apr08) Status unknown.
SIVELYS #2 & #3 (ORGAN) ZZZZ (Jun98) new owner in 1997, access info needed.
WADES CE** (Apr05)cave is currently closed.
WALTONS CE** (Dec88) Owned by Vanderpool water supply.

Hardy County, WV
DYERS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
HINKLE SCHOOL PIT C*P* (Oct98) Entrance filled with trash.

Jefferson County, WV
BYRD ORCHARD SINK C*P* (Mar07) Cave is physically closed.
CHARLES TOWN (LAKELAND) CWGR (Mar07) Cave owned by city of Charles Town - Does not usually give permission for entry - Around 2002 water in the cave contained traces of petroleum.
DEAD DOG L*GR (Mar07) Cave probably open with permission.  Mr. Brown, the owner, has the gate key.
DITMER SQUEEZE CE*Z (May87) Owner not interested in cavers.
GEORGE WASHINGTON CE** (Mar06) land posted "no trespassing at any time."
HARPERS FERRY CAVERNS CE** (Aug97) Former commercial cave, VERY closed by owner.  Property for sale.
JOHN BROWNS CUG* (May95) Harper's Ferry Park has effectively closed the cave.
MOLERS CEG* (Jul96) Cave closed & gated 7/94, mgmt plan being developed. No entry allowed.

Mercer County, WV
CALDWELL [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
HONACKER [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.

Monroe County, WV
ARGOBRITES CE** (Nov84) Fish stocked in entr. stream.
CHAMBERS CE** (Sep88).
CHRISTIE PIT LX*R (Apr05) Contact Mr. Blakeslee in Union.
CROWDER LS*R (Nov83) Landowner permission required for access.
GREENVILLE SALTPETER [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LDGV (Feb08) All entrances except stream entr gated in 2003. Access possible, but permission & waiver required.  Contact IEE at 304-832-6404 for access info.   Area near Millpond Entr closed 1 Sep - 15 May for bats.
HUNT (CONNELL) CXPR (Apr05) Landowner permission required.  Contact Jeff Bray at 304-645-5359 for info on contacting landowner.
HURRICANE RIDGE LWGG (Apr05) contact Jeff Bray 304-645-5359 for access info.
LAUREL CREEK CE** (Dec94) ALL 4 entrances now closed. Owner mad about inappropriate activities in the cave.
LEMON HOLE CE** (Nov83) Status update needed!
PATTON [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CE*R (Feb08) Sensitive landowner relations. Cave closed in winter due to bats, contact owner for possible access at other times.
SCOTT HOLLOW LEGV (Aug 04) limited access allowed if over 18 yrs old and 1yr+ NSS member.  Contact Mike@WildCaving.com for access info.  You must see owner & sign waiver before trip.
UNION LE*V (Apr05) limited access for survey and scientific work only, all other access denied by landowner.  Waiver required.  contact Jeff Bray for info at 304-645-5359.

Morgan County, WV
ROCK GAP CE** (Sep92) very closed, flood prone.

Pendleton County, WV
BIG EYE PIT CE** (Jul95) Landowner denies access.
BLOOD [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
BLOWHHOLE CEZZ (Mar94) Hostile owner for main entr.
CAVE MOUNTAIN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LUGZ (Feb08) Closed 1 Apr to 15 Sep (nursery cave for rare bats) (cave is on USFS land). Please stay on the trail to avoid damage to rare plants in the area.
CAVE RAT LE*R (Sep05) permission must be obtained from owner at 301-937-0394 or aa3of@arrl.net before each trip.  Do not block the jeep road or driveway.
CON L*GG (Mar01) gated, see Rick Lambert for access info.
COWHOLE WELL CE** (Sep99) Owner strongly dislikes trespassers.
EYE PIT C*P* (Jul 95) Entr. filled with trash.
FIELDHOUSE see LAWRENCE DOME PIT for status.
FLOOD LWPG (Nov06) Very tight entr, cave floods, some access for scientific study.
FLOYD WAGGYS CX*V (Jun00) Owner permits only Syracuse Univ Outing Club trips.
FLUTE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) WV DNR now owns cave, access policy being developed, closed until further notice.
GALE WARNER (LITTLE SENECA) CEF* (Mar99) cave fenced & closed until at least 2004 for bat recovery project.
GRAVEYARD CE** (Jul92) Adjacent caves also closed.
GYPSUM LE*R (Mar01) owner's permission required before each trip.
HAMILTON [WNS Closure - click here for more info] OD** (Feb08) Owned by NSS. Open for non-commercial use by properly equipped cavers (helmets and 3 light sources).
HELLHOLE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CEF* (Feb08) Closed 1 Sep - 15 May (bats), quarry has leased entr. NO ACCESS AT ANY TIME!!!!
HOFFMAN PIT [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CE** (Feb08) closed for bats by DNR.
HOFFMAN SCHOOL [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUGZ (Feb08) Owned by WV DNR.  Closed 1 Sep - 15 May for bats.  Summer access unknown, but doubtful. Gated by USFWS.
HOURGLASS LE*R (Apr03) written permission needed for access.  Contact owner, Ms. Bowers, at Macksville Mart S of Seneca Rocks for acess permission.
KENNY SIMMONS CE*R (Feb89) Water source, rare access allowed to cavers owner knows.
LAMBERT #1 [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CEGR (Feb08) Closed 1 Apr - 15 Sep (bats) get permission, don't block mailbox or driveway. Gated in 1994.
LAWRENCE DOME PIT (FIELDHOUSE) LE*R (Apr05) Ask permission from owner and DO NOT park along paved road.  Parking info available at http://www.psc-cavers.org/articles/FieldhouseCaveAccess.html.
LITTLE EYE PIT CE** (Jul95) Lanowner denies access.
MEMORIAL DAY CDGV (Apr06) Quarry has leased entrance.  Access controlled by Germany Valley Karst Survey.  Permission and waiver required for any access.
MILL RUN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LU** (Feb08) Closed Apr 1 - Sep 15 for bats.
MINOR REXRODE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CNF* (Feb08) Closed all year by owner for Va. Long Ear bats.
MOYERS TWIN WELLS CE** (Jul95) Landowner denies access.
MYSTIC [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CX*V (Feb08) Closed 1 Apr - 15 Sep for bats, see owner & sign waiver rest of year.
NEW QUARRY C*P* (Nov05) entrance plugged with dirt in September 1999, area posted by State.
NEW TROUT [WNS Closure - click here for more info] OD** (Feb08) same status as HAMILTON.
NUTT LUGR (Nov96) Access for serious studies with permission. Enforced by owner. Gated.
ONEGO MILL CE** (Oct89) Closed by owner, entr usually underwater, may be silted shut.
PROPST CE** (APR02) owner concerned about vandalism.
QUARRY C*** (Nov05) entire quarry now posted as "State property, no trespassing."
ROARING CREEK CE** (Mar84) Closed by very mad owner.
SALTPETRE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] C*** (Feb08) Closed all year due to bats.  Contact George Dasher for info.
SCHOOLHOUSE [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUF* (Feb08) Closed all year for bats, USFWS fence.
SHORT CX** (Nov97) Owner won't allow any access.
SINNETT [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LUGG (Feb08) Closed 1 Apr - 15 Sep (bats).  Check the Sinnett-Thorn Cave Conservancy Web site at www.psc-cavers.org/stcc/ for access info.  Waiver is mandatory.  DO NOT CONTACT THE OWNER!
SITES LE*R (Nov05) Qualified vertical cavers may enter cave, but permission must be obtained from owner at 301-937-0394 or aa3of@arrl.net before each trip.  Caution: deep pit. Do not block the jeep road or driveway.
SITES ATTIC LE*R (Nov04) same status as SITES Cave.
SMOKEHOLE (cave, not caverns) [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
STRATOSPHERE BALLOON OA*V (Aug06) former commercial cave that now allows easy wild trips (for a fee).  Located on the Seneca Caverns property
THORN MOUNTAIN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LUGG (Feb08) Same ownership and status as SINNETT Cave.
TROUT [WNS Closure - click here for more info] OD** (Feb08) Same status as HAMILTON Cave.
VANCE LPTZ (Mar84) May be open during drought. Sensitive cave owner relations. Tenant denies access to everyone.
VANDER VANDER LU*R (Nov96) same access status & rules as Nutt.
WARNERS BROKEN DOME C*P* (Jan92) Entrance filled in.
WILDCAT HOLLOW PIT C*P* (Apr05) property posted, quarry operating in immediate vacinity.

Pocahontas County, WV
BILLY CLAY PIT & CLAY PIT #2 LD*R (Dec07) Owned by MAKC.  Permit required.  Further info available at www.karst.org .
BILLY CLAY PIT #3 CE*R (Dec07) Mr. Curtis, owner, 304-572-3900, may allow some access to cavers he knows.
BUCK RUN CAVE & BUCK RUN PIT CZ** (Dec07) gate on Buck Run Rd locked, land leased by a hunt club.
CANADIAN HOLE CS** (Aug97) very closed, no exceptions, owner upset about unauthorized dig & vandalism.
CARPENTER-SWAGO L**R (Feb01) New owner may allow access.  Contact him, Oak Hall, at 304-799-0579 or oak@neumedia.net for permission.
CANIS MAJORIS CW*R (Sep93) Same access as PIDDLING PIT.
CAVE CREEK CE** (Dec07) Closed by owner.
CASS CE** (Jun 03) land now posted "No Trespassing" & farm gate is locked.
CASSELL [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LE*R (Feb08) ask permission for access.  May 03 collapse in pit entr makes it unsafe for time being.
FALLING SPRING [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
FOX DEN PITS CZZZ (Dec94) Structure built over cave.
FRIARS ENTRANCE TO FRIARS HOLE SYSTEM O*** (Oct98) (this is the "south entrance" to the Friars Hole System).  1998 sale fell through, but cave still open.  Park off the road, don't litter the area (as always with any cave).
FRIARS HOLE SYSTEM LT*R (Mar08) Permission must be arranged with landowner in advance for ALL trips to ANY entrance.  Group size limited to 20 people, no beginners. Normally closed Jan - May due to poor access road conditions.  Plase walk, don't drive, to cave entrances.
GRIMES CE** (Oct91) Closure enforced by owner.
HANNA PIT CZ** (Dec07) same access at Buck Run Cave.
LINWOOD CE** (Dec07) owner is selling land tracts & denies access to everyone.  Cave is a water supply.
MARTHAS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUF* (Feb08) Closed Sep 1 - May 15 (bats). Summer entry with owner permission.
MARTENS CE** (Jul03) owner of new house near cave denies cave access.
OVERHOLT BLOWING CS*R (Dec07) no access allowed at all, contact Gary Storrick for info.
OVERHOLT SALTPETER CE** (Dec07) Closed by owner.  Ten other nearby small caves & dead-bottom pits owned by same family are also closed.
PIDDLING PIT CW*R (Sep93) Owned by Nature Conservancy, call Greg Springer for info. Contains endangered non-bat critters.
POOR FARM LEG* (Apr98) some access allowed. Ask.
REDLICK PIT C*Z* (Oct91) Entr. plugged with many trees by owner.
ROSA PIT #1, #2 CEFR (Sep96) caves on residential lots.
SHARPS O*** (Nov05) do NOT ask permission or bother owner. Please clean carbide dumps & other trash in cave. Cave may be gated if carbide dumps & graffiti continue.
SHINABERRY C*P* (Oct91) Entr. silted very shut.
SNEDEGARS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LT*R (Mar08) This is an entrance to the Friars Hole system. Permission must be arranged with landowner in advance for ALL trips to ANY entrance.  Group size limited to 20 people, no beginners. Normally closed Jan - May due to poor access road conditions.  Please walk, don't drive, to cave entrances.
TUB [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
UPPER MARTHAS [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
US-219 CE*R (Dec07) Mr. Curtis, owner, 304-572-3900, may allow some access to cavers he knows.
WALT ALLEN (BAXTERS) CEGR (Oct91) Owner still mad about caver incident in 1982.

Preston County, WV
CORNWALL [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CZGZ (Feb08) Bat closure from Monday after Labor Day until Monday before Memorial Day.  Land being sold, future access unknown.

Randolph County, WV
BOWDEN OL** (Mar08) Entire cave, all entrances, now open except for the immediate area around the 2002 collapse.   Area along road may be posted, but caver parking & access are allowed.
DEVILS KITCHEN CE** (Feb00) New owner denies all access.
DREEN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
ELK RIVER O**Z (Dec88) Caution: cave VERY flood-prone.
FLOWERPOT LO*V (Jul00) sign waiver at Harpers Store in Seneca Rocks before going to the cave.
FORTLICK [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LU** (Feb08) closed Sep 1 - May 15 for bats.
HARMANS WATERFALL CE** (Jan97) closed by owner due to liability concerns.
IZAAK WALTON [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUZR (Feb08) Closed for bats Sep 1 - May 15, entry with owner or caretaker's permission at other times.
MENNONITE YOUTH CAMP CL*Z (Feb00) closed Apr - Sep due to being used as water supply at the youth camp.
SCHMIDLEN CAVES CE** (Oct02) all caves in this area closed, landowner concerned about injuries & liability.
SHREVE-HOWELL PIT CE** (Aug97) dispute between owners, nails on road, stay away.
SIMMONS-MINGO [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
STEWART RUN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CU** (Feb08) Cave added to list at request of WV DNR due to WNS situation.
TWO LICK RUN [WNS Closure - click here for more info] LUZ* (Feb08) Closed Sep 1 - May 15 for bats, Cave is on USFS land.
WILDCAT HOLLOW CE** (Feb00) owner denies all access.

Tucker County, WV
ABROGAST CAVE CUF* (Jun98) USFWS owns or leases all entrs. All entrs closed year-round by USFS.
BENNETT CE** (Mar07) owner enforces closure, cave closed since 1980's.
BLACKWATER PIT OS** (Jul00) located in Blackwater Canyon.  Due to recent logging and environmental concerns cave should be considered closed.
BIG SPRING [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUG* (Feb08) closed  Sep 1 - May 15 (bats), Cave on USFS land.
BOB WHITE LD** (Jul00) Owned by Nature Conserv., managed by Monongahela Grotto. Trips limited to small groups.
CAVE HOLLOW (ARBOGAST SYS) [WNS Closure - click here for more info] CUF* (Feb08) same status as ARBOGAST.
FANCHLER PIT LO*R (Jul00) Cave should be considered closed.  Contact Doug Moore at 304-592-2600 for status.
LIMESTONE MTN C*P* (Jul00) Entr filled by landowner in early 70's.
MILL RUN CE** (May06) Do not ask the landowner to go into the cave.  There are extremely sensitive landowner relations.
MOORE OS** (Jul00) Falling Spring Entrance (Upper) is on private land.  Please avoid this entr and only use the lower entr.
SUICIDE SUMP O*** (Jul00) Cave located on USFS property.  Extremely dangerous cave due to water conditions.  Do not enter if there is any chance of rain.
WATERWORLD LS** (Jul00) located on Private Property.  Extremely dangerous cave due to water conditions. Do not enter if there is any chance of rain.  Contact Doug Moore at 304-592-2600 for status.

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