Wonderful Wednesday Crystal Cave with Gem Panning completed Grades K-6

We will embark on a tour underground through the winding passages of an actual cave. Tours are led by an experienced cave guide who will explain how caves are formed, how they are explored, and the relationship between caves and our drinking water. And what visit would be complete without learning about our special friends, the bats. Students will come away with a new appreciation for Wisconsin’s only flying mammal, one that can eat up to 600 bugs an hour! Finally, the tour guide will show students Crystal Cave’s rare collection of fluorescent and phosphorescent rocks (glows under black light), including the cave walls themselves! After the cave tour, each student will receive a bag of enriched mining rough and instructions on panning. Identification cards are provided, and experienced staff will assist in identifying the rough gemstones found. Whether it’s raining or the sun is shining, the cave is always 50 degrees and dry.

We suggest you bring a sweater or a light jacket to wear in the cave. Everyone must wear closed-toe shoes.

Bring a bag lunch to eat at the park.

Deadline to register July 1, 2026.