History & Culture

"Everything seemed to be leading me to the cave," Elijah Davidson, 1922 (written about his experience in 1874) *.

Caves honor our past and are among the last areas we can explore with the same rugged individualism, technology, and communal sharing of pioneers.

The cultural history of Oregon Caves National Monument revolves around the cave's discovery, exploration, stewardship, and the resulting national historic structures that surround the caves.

Examining this heritage provides levels of experience so that each of us can have our expectations and limits challenged and our curiosity, respect, and compassion increased. As a result, our estrangement from nature is reduced and a special place is made from a space.

Among the best ideas ever, our National Parks and Monuments define us as individuals, a species, a community, and a nation.

 
  • Historic tour group outside the 110 Exit in the year 1913.
    People

    Learn about the people who shaped Oregon Caves into the park it is today.

  • Photo of the Chateau in the year 1946.
    Places

    Learn about the Historic District of Oregon Caves.

  • Morrison family members in Miller's Chapel room of the cave.
    Stories

    Read our stories, and while you are at the monument, create some to take with you.

Last updated: May 8, 2018

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

19000 Caves Hwy
Cave Junction, OR 97523

Phone:

541 592-2100

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