EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Lava Beds National Monument

Lava caves & Modoc history
California
Scenic header: Sunrise at Lava Beds · NPS Photo / Nathan Charlton · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Lava caves & Modoc history

Lava-tube caves, volcanic landscapes and places connected with the Modoc War make a diverse visit. Above-ground history deserves attention alongside underground exploration.

BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Visitor-center cave information
  • 02Selected lava-tube caves
  • 03Captain Jacks Stronghold

Before you go

Check open caves, required screening and suitable equipment. Cave difficulty varies widely; do not assume every cave suits every visitor.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.