Redmond Caves (Oregon): 10 Insider Tips To Make The Best Of Your Trip

The Redmond Caves are located in Central Oregon and offer a great day-trip destination for those interested in spelunking and caving.

Native Americans have been using the caves for the last 6,000 years, and this magnificent park is open year-round for tourists to enjoy.

It is believed to have formed by lava flow from Newberry Crater approximately 80,000 years ago.

Here are ten insider tips to help you make the most of your Redmond Caves experience.

Tip 1: Dress Appropriately To Visit Redmond Caves

How you dress is essential to having a comfortable and safe experience inside the beautiful Redmond Caves.

The Redmond Caves are located in a high desert climate, so make sure to dress accordingly.

The average temperature inside the caves is a cool 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so you’ll want to wear layers that you can easily remove if you start to feel too warm.

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are also a must, as the cave floor can be uneven and slippery in places.

Tip 2: Bring a Flashlight

The Redmond Caves are only partially lit, so you’ll need to bring your own flashlight (or headlamp) to enjoy the experience fully.

Extra batteries are also a good idea in case your flashlight starts to dim, and always carry extra flashlights in case someone in your group drops theirs.

While exploring the caves, keep an eye out for bats, spiders, and other small creatures that call the cave home.

Tip 3: Don’t Forget Your Camera

The Redmond Caves are full of fascinating rock formations that are perfect for photography.

Be sure to bring along your camera (and tripod if you have one) to capture some amazing shots.

Just be careful not to touch anything as the natural oils on your skin can damage the delicate cave formations.

You’re sure to get some great shots on your journey through this high desert gem with multiple caves to explore.

Tip 4: Explore All the Caves

There are five caves to explore at Redmond Caves, including Airport Cave, Lions Cave, Horse Cave, Cave Next Door, and Redmond Cave, so be sure to visit all of them.

There are also two buried caves named Redmond Railroad Cave and Bank Cave.

The caves are large enough to accommodate groups, so don’t be afraid to explore with friends.

Be sure to bring a map so you can keep track of where you’ve been and where you still need to go.

The caves feature a variety of rock formations, including lava tubes and columnar basalt, so there’s plenty to see while exploring each cave.

Tip 6: Take a Break

After exploring all the caves, take some time to relax and enjoy the views.

There are picnic tables located near the entrance of the park, so you can enjoy a snack or lunch while taking in the majestic views of Central Oregon.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife while you’re relaxing.

The area is filled with wildlife, including birds, deer, rattlesnakes, and lizards, which all thrive in the high desert climate.

Exploring Redmond Caves can be very tiring, so make sure you take some time to rest and refuel before embarking on more of your journey.

Tip 7: Be Prepared for a Long Hike

Depending on how much exploring you want to do, be prepared for a long hike.

The Redmond Caves are located in the high desert, and the terrain can be challenging in places.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

The caves are also located at a high elevation, so if you’re not used to hiking at altitude, take it easy and take your time.

There are no bathrooms located inside the park, so make sure you go before you start your hike.

Pets are not allowed in the caves, so you’ll have to leave them at home if you want to make the most of your Redmond Caves experience.

Tip 8: Bring a First-Aid Kit

Even if you’re an experienced hiker, bringing a first-aid kit with you is always a good idea when venturing into the wilderness.

The Redmond Caves are no exception.

The caves are magnificent but can be dangerous if you’re not prepared and looking out for potential hazards.

Make sure your first-aid kit is well stocked with supplies like bandages, gauze, and antiseptic cream.

You should also include items like a flashlight, whistle, and matches in case of an emergency.

Tip 9: Do Not Touch the Cave Formations

The Redmond Caves are home to some delicate and amazing rock formations.

It’s tempting to want to touch them, but it’s important to resist the urge.

The caves are a fragile environment, and the natural oils on your skin can damage the cave formations.

If you want to touch something, make sure you use a gloved hand.

And always be careful not to knock anything over as it could break and injure someone.

Leaving the cave as you found it, it is important for future visitors to enjoy the same experience you did.

Tip 10: Visit the Park in the Winter

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Redmond Caves in the winter.

The caves are open year-round and can be especially beautiful when blanketed in snow.

Be sure to dress warm and bring plenty of layers as it can get frigid inside the caves.

Be careful when walking, as the terrain can be slippery and dangerous when ice builds up inside the caves.

The beauty of Redmond Caves in the snow is definitely worth it for a unique and beautiful experience.

Just a short drive from Bend, Oregon, the Redmond Caves offer an excellent adventure for all ages.

With a bit of planning, you’re sure to have a great time exploring all that Redmond Caves has to offer.

Always remember to have fun and stay safe in your cave hunting endeavors!

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