Hi all. New guy here with a lot of new guy questions.
I live in Southern Illinois, and am wanting to get into caving. I fancy myself as a sort of explorer and photographer, and I have stomped around all the trails and little-known nooks and crannies in my area and am looking to explore more subterranean places. I know Illinois DNR has a sort of moratorium on exploring caves in places due to White Nose Syndrome being present in local bat populations, but where are some good beginner spelunking areas? As I said, I'm a beginner, the only caves I have been in have been guided tours on paved walkways with guard rails, but I feel I've grown past that and want to really experience caving. Is there anywhere that is open to the public in Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, or even Ohio that is a good place I can cut my teeth on this?
Also, what is a good 'Beginner's Kit'? What items should I always have with me? I appreciate any and all responses, and thank you!