Nuclear bomb blast.

Organ Cave

Although we've never been there, a classic brochure in our "Caves" file continues to beckon, promising a majestic organ, frozen waterfall, sponge beds and debris left behind by the Confederacy's saltpeter mining operations.

The best is on the back flap:

"Thomas Jefferson visited ORGAN CAVE in 1778 and according to legend discovered and had removed the complete skeleton of a gigantic monster, probably a dinosaur, This specimen is in Baltimore, Maryland. The animal's footprint is clearly visible today.

"Just as General Lee's forces found a refuge in ORGAN CAVE during the strife of the Civil War, we may again, in time of need, seek refuge and safety in the spacious rooms and passageways of ORGAN CAVE. The Civil Defense has designated ORGAN CAVE a Fallout Shelter.

"Today, as in the past, ORGAN CAVE stands ready to add pleasure to our lives or offer us an ark of safety in this Atomic Age."

UPdate - June 2005: The cave is still in operation though reported to be for sale. Asking price is $5 million. Not bad for an atomic refuge, if they won't let you into the old Greenbrier Congressional Bunker down the road.

Organ Cave

Address:: 242 Organ Cave Drive, Ronceverte, WV
Directions:: From US Hwy 219 in the town of Organ Cave turn east onto Hwy 63 and drive about a mile. Look for the sign on the right.
Phone:: 304-645-7600
RA Rates:: Worth a Detour

Nearby Offbeat Places

Lost World Caverns - Home of Bat Boy, Lewisburg, WV - 8 mi.
Culvert Pipe Hot Dog, Alderson, WV - 9 mi.
The Congressional Bunker, White Sulphur Springs, WV - 9 mi.
In the region: Large Frying Pan, Roanoke, VA - 40 mi.

More Quirky Attractions in West Virginia

Stories, reports and tips on tourist attractions and odd sights in West Virginia.

Explore Thousands of Unique Roadside Landmarks!

Strange and amusing destinations in the US and Canada are our specialty. Start here.
Use RoadsideAmerica.com's Attraction Maps to plan your next road trip.

June 19, 2013