Get Underground in Illinois

Interested in caves near you? The NSS is a great way to explore and learn about caves in Illinois. Attend a meeting at one of our local chapters, meet other cavers, get training, and see Illinois caves. No experience necessary! We are a national organization dedicated to exploring, protecting, and studying caves.

Getting Started Caving - An Overview of Caving

About the National Speleological Society

The NSS is the largest caving-focused membership organization in the world. We exist to promote fellowship among cavers & protect, explore and study caves. With thousands of members worldwide, being a part of the NSS means being connected to cavers everywhere. There is no better way to get access to trips, training, and fellowship. But the NSS also offers the following benefits:

Join the NSS!

Publications

Get immediate digital access to over 80 years and 1,500+ issues of NSS publications, including the NSS News.  For an additional $10/year, members can receive a printed copy of the News. 

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Events

Every year the NSS holds a week long convention. Members receive a discount. Members also get access or discounts to regional events held all over the country.

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Training

Members get discounts on National Cave Rescue Commission training events held throughout the country.

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Gear

Get 45% or more off outdoor gear from major brands! Additionally, caving-focused vendors like Highline Rope, Inner Mountain Outfitters, and On Rope 1 all offer generous discounts to NSS members.

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Support Caves!

Your membership dollars support NSS cave preserves, scientific programs, and exploration grants! Be a part of protecting the most fragile ecosystems on earth.

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Grants

NSS members can apply for the exploration & scientific grants the organization gives out every year. Learn more here.

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Additional Benefits

NSS Bookstore discounts

Discount on your first Convention

Connect with Cavers through the Membership Directory

Access to NSS Cave Preserves

Free Camping at HQ

Access to the NSS library

Join the NSS!