Situated in Deua National Park, Wyanbene Cave is an extremely well decorated active stream cave. There are two parts: the old tourist section, open to the public, and a long streamway section behind a locked gate requiring an NPWS permit. The Big Hole, nearby, is exactly that — a big hole in the ground that can be abseiled into for those keen on the 100m prusik back out (also permit-required).
Getting there
Usually via Queanbeyan and Captains Flat along an unsealed road over Tallaganda National Park — the shorter option. For a cleaner car, go via Braidwood on a sealed road instead. The Big Hole is accessed from the Berlang campground, and Wyanbene Cave from the Wyanbene campground, both on short signposted dirt roads. Be warned: you have to cross the Shoalhaven River on a 2WD causeway to reach Wyanbene, so access can be cut in the wet — there are stories of the river turning into an impromptu car wash for cavers who misjudged its depth.
Facilities
A pleasant campground next to Wyanbene Cave has benches, fireplaces and a pit toilet — but it’s a very cold spot, so pack warm clothes in winter. Berlang tends to be a bit warmer with easier road access, so it can get busy.