How to begin

[kuster500]

I have been cave diving for some time, and wanted to try some of the dry caves out. What do I need to do training/equipment wise to try it? Are there any dry caves around the Valdosta, GA area that I could "get my feet wet" with? I know there are places that have the marked tour route, but that doesn't sound as appealing to me as get off the beaten path. I'll take whatever advice/info you have. Thank you for the help!

[Adam Byrd]

Hi Kuster,

The standard response to this question is to join your local grotto. Keeping with that theme, you might want to get in touch with someone from the Flint River Grotto down in Tallahassee.

Their website is http://www.tfn.net/~frgrotto/index.html
The site has a section called "Your First Cave Trip," which should give you an idea of the physical requirements and basic gear involved with caving.

[kuster500]

Thank you for your help, I sent the grotto an email. Have a great day.

[wendy]

Also the same distance away is the Middle Georgia Grotto http://www.caves.org/grotto/mgg/

And the Florida Speleological Society in Gainesville, FL
http://www.caves.com/fss