Cherney Maribel Caves County Park

Cherney Maribel Caves County Park is a cave system spanning 75 acres along the West Twin River, with eleven separate caves situated along a dolomite cliff formation. The largest cave, Maribel New Hope Cave, features lighted pathways and natural limestone formations that visitors can walk through.

The caves formed before the last ice age when glaciers exposed the Niagara Dolomite layer beneath the surface. The first documented discovery was recorded in 1892, though the largest cave system was not found until 1984.

Visitors come to experience the underground passages and learn about the rock formations that shape this landscape. Guided tours help people understand how water and stone interact over time.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset year-round, with parking options that vary by season for visitor convenience. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven, damp terrain, as the cave passages follow natural ground conditions.

Maribel New Hope Cave remained unknown until 1984, even though the surrounding area had been explored for nearly a century beforehand. This late discovery of the largest cave at the site makes it one of the park's more recent major features.

GPS coordinates: 44.28668,-87.77510

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:01