Laurel Caverns Becomes Pennsylvania’s 125th State Park — and Its First Underground One
Governor Josh Shapiro has officially designated Laurel Caverns as Pennsylvania's 125th State Park — the first underground state park in the Commonwealth. Gifted by David and Lillian Cale, the park opens April 22, 2026.
It’s official. Laurel Caverns is now Pennsylvania’s 125th State Park — and the first underground park in the Commonwealth’s history.
Governor Josh Shapiro made the announcement on Monday, April 6, 2026, marking a truly special moment for the Laurel Highlands. The remarkable property was generously gifted by David and Lillian Cale, a contribution as meaningful as the place itself.
Visitors entering the park will be welcomed by stunning photography from GO Laurel Highlands photographer Alex Byers — a beautiful first glimpse of what lives beneath the surface.
Laurel Caverns State Park opens April 22, 2026. If you haven’t been, now is the time. This is a rare and historic place, right in our own backyard — where wonder, it turns out, lives just below the surface.