The cavern was discovered in 1849. Many signatures dating back to the 1850's are visible. John Muir, the founder of the Sierra Club, was reputed to have left his signature but it has not been found. Chambers and passageways in the caverns contain glittering formations ranging from fragile soda straws on the ceiling to colossal stalagmites rising from the floor.
California Cavern is open for all trips weather permitting, spring through fall. California Cavern offers family walking tours, wild cavern expedition trips, gemstone mining, a free nature trail and picnic tables set in beautiful countryside. They also offer an unusual venue for your wedding! Marriages have been performed inside the cave, and receptions held in the pavilion. A four-hour Wild Downstream Circuit Tour is available by reservation.