Warsaw Caves, Cave system in Peterborough County, Canada

Warsaw Caves is a group of caverns in the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area near Warsaw, Ontario, set in limestone bedrock. The caves have long passages and mostly small open areas accessible to spelunkers. The Indian River flows through the area and disappears underground into channels formed by collapsed limestone layers around the caves.

The caves formed at the end of the last Ice Age roughly 12,000 years ago when glacial meltwater carved channels through limestone bedrock. Flowing water gradually created the passages and chambers visible to visitors today.

The caves lie in the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area, opened to the public in 1964 after the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority bought the land in 1962. Visitors also see a limestone plain and rockmills, and many smaller caves shelter hibernating bats in winter.

The caves lie in the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area near Warsaw, Ontario, operated by the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority. Above ground, more than 15 km of hiking trails cross the area, and the caves sit on cycling routes. The conservation area also holds a 52-site campground, three group campsites, a beach and swimming area, and canoeing on the Indian River.

The Indian River disappears underground in this area and flows through the limestone system creating hidden water channels. These subterranean currents continue to shape the cave passages over time.