Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cherney Maribel Caves County Park is located in northeastern Wisconsin in Manitowoc County. It is a significant natural area featuring several well-preserved limestone caves formed thousands of years ago by the action of water on Niagara Escarpment rock. The park’s caves, including Maribel and Cherney Caves, offer an educational and adventurous experience for visitors interested in geology and natural history. Aside from spelunking opportunities in guided tours or self-guided visits to accessible caves, the park contains miles of walking trails weaving through wooded uplands and rolling glacial terrain. The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of native wildlife, including songbirds and small mammals. The park's origins date back to early 20th-century efforts to preserve the caves and surrounding lands, today managed by Manitowoc County. Visitors are drawn to the park for its rugged natural beauty, cave exploration, picnic areas, and peaceful hiking experiences. The site also serves as an outdoor classroom for geology and ecology studies, highlighting the significance of karst landscapes in the region. Its family-friendly atmosphere and natural attractions make it a unique destination within Wisconsin's network of county parks.
