Lava Beds National Monument

CONTENTS

Lava Beds National Monument

Volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created an incredibly rugged landscape punctuated by cinder cones, lava flows, spatter cones, lava tube caves and pit craters. During the Modoc War of 1872-1873, the Modoc Indians used these tortuous lava flows to their advantage. Under the leadership of Captain Jack, the Modocs took refuge in "Captain Jack's Stronghold," a natural lava fortress. From this base a group of 53 fighting men and their families held off US Army forces numbering up to ten times their strength for five months. Visitors can tour both the geologic and historic wonders of this unusual landscape. For more information about the monument's resources, things to see and do, volunteer and employment opportunities,how to arrange a school field trip, click on the blue "inDEPTH" button.

IN DEPTH

Just For Kids Become a Lava Beds Junior Ranger! Kids between the ages of 5 and 13 can earn a badge while learning about the amazing caves, history, and wildlife of Lava Beds...read more

Frequently Asked Questions 1. Where can I eat / camp / stay in a motel? Restaurants and motel accomodations are available in neighboring towns approximately 30 minutes from the Visitor Center. Places to...read more

History As one of the longest continually occupied areas in North America, the history and cultural legacy of the lava beds stretches back thousands of years. Explore the history early...read more

Park Regulations & Safety Pets Protect Yourself, Your Pet, and Park Resources. Pets make wonderful companions. However, they are not always compatible with the dangers you can encounter in wild areas, or with the...read more

Lodging & Dining Lodging If you don't want to camp in the park, the following lodging facilities are available in the local area. Other facilities are available farther away in Klamath Falls, OR (56 miles north)...read more

Activities & Programs Guided Tours A full schedule of daily ranger-led interpretive programs are offered between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. Contact the park for more information. Programs include guided cave...read more

Things To Do Maybe you love caves, or you've never been in one. Or you're a history buff, love wildflowers, or just need a few hours of solitude in the wilderness away...read more

Plants Overview Even small changes in elevation, soil, and shade can provide just the right conditions for different communities of plants to grow. You'll discover this all over the Lava Beds, where...read more

Animals Animals You might be surprised by the variety of wildlife that overcomes dry summers, cold winters, and scarce water to thrive here; bird watching is especially good year-round. Birds The Klamath and Tulelake Basins...read more

Sights to See Nearby Attractions Lava Beds is surrounded by thousands of acres of public lands and is located near a great variety of other scenic, historic, and recreation destinations! There's something to...read more