Lava Beds National Monument
National Monument · Tulelake, California
Lava Beds National Monument sits on the north-facing slope of the Medicine Lake volcano in far northern California, in Siskiyou and Modoc Counties, close to the town of Tulelake and the Oregon line. It protects hundreds of caves - commonly described as more than 800 - the largest concentration of lava tubes in the lower 48 states, formed when rivers of molten rock drained and left empty tunnels. Rangers lend flashlights and helmets for the caves - confirm - and Mushpot Cave, near the visitor centre, is lit and the easiest start. The monument is also the site of the Modoc War of 1872-73, where Modoc fighters held out in the rough lava terrain around Captain Jack's Stronghold - confirm the details. The caves stay cool, about 50 F, even in summer, and the plateau is high, dry and remote, with snow in winter. Entry fees apply and the nearest fuel is outside the park. Allow a full day, and bring food and water.
1 Indian Well Headquarters, Tulelake, California, 96134, United States
The monument is open every day of the year, but the visitor centre keeps shorter hours than the road, commonly opening in the morning and closing mid-afternoon to early evening, with shorter days in winter - confirm the current schedule with the National Park Service. An entrance fee is charged per vehicle, commonly in the range of USD 20-30 and valid for several days - confirm the amount and which passes are accepted. Flashlight and helmet loans and cave permits are handled at the visitor centre, so go there first. Individual caves can close for bat protection, ice, rockfall or snow. Winter storms can close access roads, and the nearest fuel and food are in Tulelake or farther away.
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