Laurel Caverns becomes Pennsylvania's first underground state park

Laurel Caverns in Fayette County has been designated Pennsylvania's 125th state park and the commonwealth's first subterranean state park, announced by Gov. Josh Shapiro; the 435‑acre site includes roughly four miles of cave passages that reach about 476 feet deep.

Laurel Caverns has officially opened as Pennsylvania's 125th state park and the commonwealth's first underground state park. The announcement was made by Gov. Josh Shapiro with state and local leaders present. The park covers 435 acres and centers on the largest and deepest limestone cave in Pennsylvania. The caverns have a long local history and draw roughly 50,000 visitors each year. Key facts: - The opening was announced by Gov. Josh Shapiro alongside Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and Fayette leaders. - The park covers 435 acres and features about four miles of wide cave passages that reach as deep as 476 feet. - The cave contains the largest bat shelter in the Northeast, as noted in the announcement. - Laurel Caverns has drawn roughly 50,000 visitors annually and was donated to the state by David and Lilian Cale after generations of local stewardship. - Outdoor activities like hiking, birding, and picnicking will remain free, while fees for guided and self‑guided cave tours will remain in place through the 2026 season. Summary: Local officials say the new designation highlights a unique natural attraction and is described as likely to support tourism and local businesses. Park operations have transitioned to state management and cave tour fees will continue during the 2026 season.