Caving club ยท Bend, Oregon
Oregon High Desert Grotto
Discover The Wonders of Central Oregon’s Caves
We are a Central Oregon caving club and a grotto, or local chapter, of the National Speleological Society. Members explore, survey and help protect the lava tubes and caves of the high desert, and cavers of all levels are welcome.
What we do
Photo credit: contact Jeff Taylor
Explore the Caves of Central Oregon
Unearth the hidden beauty of Central Oregon’s diverse cave systems, from vast lava tubes to stunning ice formations. The Oregon High Desert Grotto offers members unique opportunities for safe and responsible exploration of these geological wonders. Discover breathtaking formations and the secrets held within our region’s underground world. Join us to experience the adventure!
Photo credit: contact Jeff Taylor
Dedicated to Cave Preservation
The Oregon High Desert Grotto is committed to the study and long-term preservation of Central Oregon’s fragile cave ecosystems. We actively participate in cave cleanups, detailed surveying, and promote responsible caving practices. By becoming a member, you’ll contribute to the vital work of protecting these invaluable natural resources for future generations. Join our conservation efforts.
Photo credit: contact Jeff Taylor
Join Our Caving Community
Connect with a welcoming community of cave enthusiasts of all levels in the Oregon High Desert Grotto. Enjoy guided cave trips, learn essential caving skills, and share your passion for the underground world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced caver, find camaraderie and adventure with fellow members. Become part of our vibrant caving community today!
About Us
Welcome to the Oregon High Desert Grotto, a dedicated group of cavers in Central Oregon!
We’re passionate about the study and preservation of our region’s unique caves, and we believe in having fun while doing so. Our activities range from exciting cave trips and detailed surveying to vital cleanups and photo documentation.
We invite anyone who respects the fragility of these resources to join our community. For just $15 a year, members get access to our members-only Google Group and invitations to incredible caving adventures.
$15
a year. Members-only Google Group and trip invitations.
As an internal organization of the National Speleological Society (NSS), we uphold the highest standards of cave exploration and conservation.
Our members’ discoveries, cleanups and glacier cave expeditions have been covered by OPB, The Oregonian and BBC Travel. Read the press coverage.
Members on a grotto trip to Malheur Cave. Photo credit: contact Jeff Taylor.
Learn about Central Oregon’s caves
Field guides written by our members on the animals, bats and lava tubes of the high desert.
Cave Inhabitants
A quick reference guide to the cave fauna of Central Oregon, from trogloxenes to troglobites.
Bats of Central Oregon
Which bats live in our caves, why they matter, and how cavers can avoid disturbing them.
Caves of Central Oregon
How lava tubes, fissures and ice caves form, and the fragile features found inside them.
Questions about joining
Answers to what new members ask most.
Contact OHDG
Have any questions? Reach out to us here or on our Facebook page.