Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
Adventure awaits underground at the Warsaw Caves. Curious cavers can spend hours exploring the seven limestone caverns, some interconnected through underground tunnels. The circular caves are beginner-friendly and make for unique photos.
But that’s not all the area offers. The Warsaw Caves Conservation Area consists of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and limestone plains, with scenic lookout points to stop at along the way. The calm waters of the Indian River are perfect for canoeing or kayaking.
Warsaw Caves Conservation Area | Kawarthas Northumberland
How to get to Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
Location: 289 Caves Road, Warsaw
By car: The main entrance of the conservation area is located off County Road 4 out of Warsaw, about 30 minutes outside Peterborough. A paid parking lot on-site is a short five-minute walk from the caves.
Purchase a day-use permit or an annual pass to enter and park at the conservation area.
Know before you go
The conservation area is open between May and October.
Upon arrival, each visitor is given a Spelunking Guide that leads through each cave. Bring a headlamp or rent one at the site, as the caves have no artificial lights.
Camping is available. Book sites in advance and review the reservation rules. The park office must be notified of late arrivals.
Things to do at Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
Discover more activities and experiences.
Book a woodland retreat
Choose from over 50 camp sites in a beautiful, wooded setting. The campground features a comfort station with washrooms, showers, laundry and dishwashing sinks.
Plan a caving adventure
Embark on a self-guided tour of the caves to witness amazing limestone formations and hear the sounds of the Indian River as it flows along the limestone layers surrounding the caves.
Try your hand at fishing
Fish the Indian River between the canoe launch and the dam in the village of Warsaw for perch, sunfish or smallmouth bass. A fishing licence is required in Ontario.
Visit the beach
Head to the beach and go for a swim in the calm waters of the Indian River. While the swimming area is kid-friendly due to the lack of current, the area is not supervised.
Picnic with a view
Pack a tasty meal, breathe in the fresh air and admire the scenic nature views while enjoying a picnic near the beach. Book your spot in advance as space is limited.
Go paddling
Embark on a four-hour round trip paddling adventure from the conservation area to the town of Warsaw. The gentle current of the Indian River makes an easy kayaking route for beginners.
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Interesting facts about Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
The Warsaw Caves were formed when a glacier melted at the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 12,000 years ago. The unique geography of the caves is made up of cavities in limestone, and the round caves are known as “kettles.” These spiral depressions were created when pieces of stone were swirled around into the limestone by the ancient river that used to cover the entire area.
Once the ice was gone, the river began to recede. Free from the burden of heavy ice, the ground gently rose, unveiling the breathtaking limestone caves that are now open for exploration.
Last updated: May 23, 2024