Hi Dreadnock, I guess I'll be the Grotto-bot today. If you want to go caving, the people to hook up with are the local grottos of the National Speleogical Society. I believe Dixie Caverns are in Virginia, so here's a link to some Virginia grottos:
http://www.caves.org/io/iolookup.php?state=VA
Virginia is one of the better caving states along with West Virginia, Kentucky, and TAG(Tennessee Alabama Georgia) which are in your region. My state (PA) has lower grade ore(smaller and fewer caves) so I tend to try to get on trips to the good stuff like where you live when I get the chance.
Hope you have a great time underground!