The California Cave Survey

documents, archives, protects and manages information about the caves and karst landscapes of California to promote the understanding, appreciation and protection of these amazing underground worlds.

California caves contain incredible natural and cultural resources

Rare animals found nowhere else on Earth, ancient bones of long extinct animals, karst aquifers that provide water via springs year around, cultural and ceremonial sites for Native American people, stunning crystals and colorful minerals, special spaces that promote wonder, adventure and fun area all part of the caves of California.

Calcite crystals formed in a pool that is now dry in a Shasta County cave. The crystals are beautiful and delicate, but are not valuable because calcite is a soft mineral unsuited for jewelry or other uses. Despite that, this cave has been vandalized and crystals have been stolen from it by unscrupulous people. This photo shows a remarkable four different calcite crystal habits or shapes in this one former pool. This cave is on public land. Dave Bunnell