… was proclaimed such by President Coolidge 88 years ago today (1925).
Lava Beds National Monument is a land of turmoil, both geological and historical. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. More than 700 caves, Native American rock art sites, historic battlefields and campsites, and a high desert wilderness experience await you!
There is so much to do and see at Lava Beds, both above and below ground! The monument’s two main attractions are the historical sites of the Modoc War and exploring the lava tube caves. Modoc War sites are found primarily at the north end of the park, and most of the caves can be found near the visitor center at the south end of the park.
If you have boots or other gear that has been in caves or mines east of the Rockies (including in Canada) or in Europe, please leave these items at home. This is an effort to prevent the spread of White-nose Syndrome, a deadly fungal bat disease.
