40th Anniversary Events
Field Day at Ogdens Cave
Ogdens Cave Natural Area Preserve is in Middletown, Virginia, in Frederick County. This is a "rain or shine" event, so dress accordingly. There is a limit of 75 people for the tours throughout the event, so sign up early!
Come join cavers and speleologists from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Natural Heritage Karst Program on a visit to this natural area complete with a short cave tour. Learn about the importance of caves and karst and then actually go INTO a cave! The cave tour will last up to 1 hour.
There will be surface displays and staff to talk with for those not capable of or interested in going into the cave.
Other Details
Registration required: To register, email Meredith Weberg at merecaver@yahoo.com no later than
May 26, 2026.
Date: June 2, 2026. 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., 4 hours
Location: Ogdens Cave Natural Area Preserve, Corner of Ogden Lane and Rectors Lane, Middletown, VA: 39.047968, -78.313157
Maximum capacity: 75
Age: Children under 12 years of age wishing to visit the cave should bring a helmet - e.g. climbing helmet or bicycle helmet - for safety. All participants under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
Pets: No
Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes/boots with treads, long pants, a light jacket or rugged shirt with long sleeves—cave temp will be about 54 degrees—and gloves (garden gloves are fine). Children under 12 years of age wishing to visit the cave should bring a helmet - e.g. climbing helmet or bicycle helmet - for safety.
Supplies: Bring water and snacks plus suncreen and bug spray for any time spent outside of the cave.
Amenities: None onsite, but convenience stores, gas stations, and restaurants can be found in the nearby community of Middletown, Exit 302.
Participants should be able to:
- Understand and follow directions to avoid/manage risks.
- Tolerate the elements including temperature for the duration.
- Ability to climb, crawl, and go through narrow passages.
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Department of Conservation and Recreation
