Looking for things to do in Redding? Try Lake Shasta Caverns Spelunking

We’ve got yet another blastastic, fundelicious, totally worthy stop along the HWY 5. This place is a definite must visit spot while hanging out at the Lake Shasta. Past weekend we went Spelunking ! What ? Yes ! Spelunking = Lake Shasta Caverns Spelunking exploring the caverns at Lake Shasta Caverns off of highway 5 in Redding!

We came for the last boat ride for the day on Saturday and apparently it was completely book. The courteous staff suggested that we come first thing in the morning the next day. We were in one of the first cohorts the next morning and just to point it out more than half of the parking lot was full once we set out on our tour. It seems that lake Shasta caverns spelunking is a pretty popular thing around these parts. Check out the official site for tickets and times. 

Well it really is a perfect thing to do with kids while on vacation in Northern California. This little trip reminded me of the time my parents took us to the caverns (one of the most memorable trips from childhood). The caves are grand, intriguing and most definitely impressive! I think every other group of tourists were families with kids, surprisingly a lot of kids.

If your kids are old enough they can lurk around the twists and turns of the cave’s well built pathway and listen to mini-lectures courteously provided by the staff every 30-40 yards or so. The staff is knowledgeable and are happy to answer your questions regarding the history, how the cave was discovered or other geological related questions: like how the stalagmites and stalactites are formed.   ​

This place probably not the ideal place for a toddler simply because our little guy constantly was trying to get away from me and attempted to touch the mineral/rock formations which is highly restricted. He also would stop everywhere and create traffic jams to eyeball the caves. Clearly it was his first experience at Spelunking lake Shasta caverns and he had to explore every little corner.

Luckily we had our Ergobaby strap carrier and once he was tired I simply tucked him into the roo pouch. All in all this was a pleasant cooling walk-through the cave on a warm day.

Hold up! I didn’t even mention a smooth and pleasant boat ride to the peninsula where the Lake Shasta Caverns are located! Followed by a short drive uphill (you don’t even need to hike to the caves – they will deliver you right to the entrance!) This is Spelunking done right!

The military precision run operations at the Lake Shasta Cavers are amazing – I’ve never seen a better run business. It’s a fun 1 -2 hour venture. Note: Come early if you don’t want to stay in line for too long, but even in that case. There’s a fun outdoor kids playground next to the entrance. ​

If you are planning a perfect family vacation and looking for things to do on the weekend or just things to do in California with kids in general. Please enjoy CaliforniaPerspective.com as a resource to get ideas for explorations.