Safety & Conservation

We film, document, and share caves to inspire others—but we never do it at the expense of the cave. We believe that showing the beauty of these places should lead to education and protection, not exploitation.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned caver, we invite you to join us in exploring responsibly.

Because caves deserve more than just our curiosity.

At Cantrell Caving, our mission goes beyond the thrill of exploration—we’re here to protect, educate, and lead by example. Every trip underground is a responsibility. Here’s how we stay safe, and how we help preserve these fragile ecosystems for generations to come.

Cave Safety Essentials

Never cave alone.

Caving is a team activity. Always bring at least one experienced partner—and let someone above ground know your plan.

Use the right gear.

Helmets, lights (always carry three), harnesses, gloves, and proper footwear aren’t optional—they’re survival tools. Check out our Gear Guide for recommendations.

Know your cave.

Research your trip. Understand vertical drops, water risks, tight passages, and any permit requirements beforehand.

Train your body, not just your curiosity.

Caving is physically demanding. Prepare with cardio, strength, and vertical rope skills. If you’re new, consider joining a local grotto or taking a training course.

Respect your limits.

Pushing too far without the skills to back it up puts you and your team at risk. There’s no shame in turning back—there’s only danger in not knowing when to.

Leave No Trace underground.

What you pack in, you pack out—including food wrappers, batteries, and human waste. Caves don’t have ecosystems that bounce back quickly.

Don’t touch formations.

Oils from your skin can stop stalactites and crystals from growing. Keep your hands (and gear) off anything delicate.

Stay on established paths.

Avoid damaging cave floors, formations, and fragile fauna. If you’re in a virgin cave, use flagging tape and extreme care when navigating new passage.

Respect wildlife.

Bats, salamanders, crickets, and microbes all play roles in the cave ecosystem. Don’t disturb or photograph them with flash unless you’re sure it’s safe.

Share—but don’t overexpose.

Not every cave should be publicized. We believe in showcasing the underground world—but we also believe in protecting locations that can’t handle increased foot traffic.