Louisiana is full of surprises, you just need to know where to look. Many of these natural wonders can be found in the Kisatchie National Forest, like this incredible cave in Louisiana. Few people know about Wolf Rock Cave’s existence, especially since it’s tucked away in a forested area, but the hike to see it is quick and easy, so easy that the entire family can get in on this unique outdoor adventure.

The cave is located in Vernon Parish, in the tiny town of Leesville.

googlemaps.com You can easily punch it into your preferred digital map app to get you there.

There’s a parking area and signage once you arrive.

Brian Verdin/Google The trail to the cave is only about 100-200 yards. The area is both kid and dog-friendly, so feel free to bring the whole squad along for the adventure.

The cave dates back 30 million years and was first occupied by people from the Late Archaic era, around 2500 BC.

Parker Tarleton/Google It’s the only known cave system in Louisiana that was used as shelter by early people. Situated along a stream that very well could have been a much deeper, bountiful water source hundreds of years ago, it’s easy to see why early inhibitors would have set up shelter here.

Wolf Rock Cave received another breath of fresh air during the Civil War.

Ken’s Alternate Universe/Google The cave was actually very large, with multiple chambers. It was so large that it served as a garrison and barracks for Union troops to stash horses and supplies during the war.

Fast forward to the 1950s and 60s, and it became a campsite for hunters and fishers in the area.

Tyler Hill/Google Of course, it also became a spot for teens to hang out on the weekends. By the 1970s, the United States Forest Service took control of it and decided it was too dangerous for the general public, and triggered off explosives that sealed off the two large back chambers.

Probably for the best.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can crawl inside the narrow entrance.

Robert Robertson/Google Be sure to bring a flashlight, and the proper footwear. The inside is usually fairly damp and wet.

Although, just remember that you’re in the middle of the forest, and other creatures may be calling the cave home now.

Becca Norman/Google Bats, coyotes, and maybe even black bears have all been known to frequent the area, so… be smart.

Even if you just peek your head inside, it’s a pretty cool sight to see!

Adam Dick/Google And you’ll have bragging rights to say that you explored a cave in Louisiana, not something your average Louisianian can claim!

Learn more about the cave on the U.S. Forest Service website.

googlemaps.com

You can easily punch it into your preferred digital map app to get you there.

Brian Verdin/Google

The trail to the cave is only about 100-200 yards. The area is both kid and dog-friendly, so feel free to bring the whole squad along for the adventure.

Parker Tarleton/Google

It’s the only known cave system in Louisiana that was used as shelter by early people. Situated along a stream that very well could have been a much deeper, bountiful water source hundreds of years ago, it’s easy to see why early inhibitors would have set up shelter here.

Ken’s Alternate Universe/Google

The cave was actually very large, with multiple chambers. It was so large that it served as a garrison and barracks for Union troops to stash horses and supplies during the war.

Tyler Hill/Google

Of course, it also became a spot for teens to hang out on the weekends. By the 1970s, the United States Forest Service took control of it and decided it was too dangerous for the general public, and triggered off explosives that sealed off the two large back chambers.

Probably for the best.

Robert Robertson/Google

Be sure to bring a flashlight, and the proper footwear. The inside is usually fairly damp and wet.

Becca Norman/Google

Bats, coyotes, and maybe even black bears have all been known to frequent the area, so… be smart.

Adam Dick/Google

And you’ll have bragging rights to say that you explored a cave in Louisiana, not something your average Louisianian can claim!

After you’ve explored Louisiana’s caves, how about trekking up Louisiana’s mountains? Ok, it’s just one mountain, but you’ll have a beautiful view at the summit, and you’ll even get to see Driskill Mountain’s little brother, Mount Jordan.

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Address: Wolf Rock Cave and historical marker, 961-975 Johnsonville Rd, Leesville, LA 71446, USA