The cavern was discovered in 1928 by two local farmers who stumbled upon a hole in the ground while walking their property.
The cave contains a 100-foot underground waterfall that cascades into a subterranean pool.
The temperature inside the cavern remains a constant 50 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
The walls contain marine fossils, reflecting the area's geological history as an ancient seabed.
The cavern system is significantly smaller and more rustic than the neighboring, more heavily developed Howe Caverns.
The entrance area retains original 1920s-era signage and a kitschy, vintage roadside attraction aesthetic.
Secret Caverns is a privately owned cave system located in upstate New York, known for its raw, uncommercialized atmosphere and a 100-foot underground waterfall. The cave features a natural entrance and a mile-long guided walking tour that descends roughly 130 feet below ground. Visitors navigate a series of limestone passages that showcase diverse geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient fossils embedded in the cave walls. Unlike more highly developed commercial caves, Secret Caverns retains a rugged character with minimal modern infrastructure. The site has remained in operation under private ownership since its discovery in 1928. It is distinct for being one of the few caves where visitors can view a waterfall within an enclosed cavern setting.
At the base of the cavern where the underground waterfall is illuminated against the limestone rock face.
Wear sturdy, rubber-soled shoes with good traction, as the cave floor is naturally damp and can be slippery.
Bring a light jacket or sweater regardless of the outside temperature, as the cave remains consistently cool.
Prepare for a steep descent and ascent of over 100 stairs to reach the main cavern level.
Do not assume the cave is fully paved or wheelchair accessible; the terrain is rugged, uneven, and requires significant physical exertion.
Operations are seasonal and may close during the winter months; check for current status before arrival as guided tours are the only way to access the cave.
Do not touch the cave walls or formations, as the oils from human skin can disrupt the delicate mineral growth and ecosystem.
