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Love that I have kids that like to explore the depths of the earth! Visited the Beds twice this year. May and October. Weather was as good as it gets. Slightly overcast but perfect temp.
Go here. Bring the kids but leave the dog at home. Camping was 10$ per night per spot! What a deal! We went on a free weekend! Beautiful caves, bring a warm jacket even if it’s hot out. Visited September 2022! There will be deer and quail around your campsite, pretty neat!
I really loved this place. So much to explore in ways that aren't usual for a national park. And the sudden change from farmland to lava beds is startlingly fast. The rangers at the visitor center are especially helpful for both advice on what to explore and what to bring with you.
It's a really good idea to bring your own bike helmet and what lights you can, you'll need two on each of you and remember that your cell phone can count as a backup. But it's also good to have a backpack and a head lamp to leave your hands free for the difficult parts of the paths.
But if you forget everything the Visitor Center can supply you. And the darkness in the stone is pretty breathtaking.
We also managed to lock our keys on the car, and the law enforcement rangers were good enough and kind enough to break gently into it car and get us back on our way. I'm really grateful they could help.
Lava Beds National Monument has very interesting history, geology, and natural wonders. The Modoc War represents the unfortunate loss of lives with the relocation of the indigenous people and the draining (65 %) of the Tulelake to create farmland. If you enjoy spelunking, this area has volcanic lava caves (tubes). Please register at the National Park visitor center for a permit. Petroglyph Point is a remarkable place with over a thousand ancient symbols etched into sandstone to mark the many individuals who came to the lake for trade. 2500 to 4500 years ago. This area has hiking trails and senic beauty with Mt Shasta in the distance.
