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Fire Closure:
Captain Jack's Stronghold has been closed due to the recent Jack Fire. Hiking in the northern part of the monument is limited to maintained trails. All park roads are open. more...
Welcome to Lava Beds
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!
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The Modoc War
During the Modoc War of 1872-1873, a small band of Modoc Indians used an intimate knowledge of their homeland's terrain to their tactical advantage. Under the leadership of Kintpuash (Captain Jack), the Modocs took refuge in "Captain Jacks Stronghold," a natural lava fortress. From here the Modocs held off US Army forces numbering up to ten times their strength for five months. At sites throughout the monument, you can contemplate this clash of cultures.
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Lava Tube Caves
One of the most exciting things to do at the Lava Beds is to visit lava tube caves. Though many are hidden in the wilderness, some caves have ladders and trails, and vary from easy walks to strenuous excursions. Temperate and moist year round, caves are often very different from the outside world, forming “micro-climates” full of fascinating life such as bats, ferns, and sparkling bacteria.
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Nature & Science
From bats to birds, caves to cinder cones, the Lava Beds are a natural wonder full of amazing wildlife and unique geology. These textbook examples of volcanic formations will amaze even the most experienced rock-hound. This incredible landscape is also home to a great diversity of life, including plants and animals that thrive only in caves or nearby cave collapse trenches.
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Wilderness Experience
Imagine wildflowers bursting from stark black lava flows, hawks soaring overhead, crisp dry air, and nobody in sight. Whether you choose a short hike or overnight experience, Lava Beds provides an opportunity to escape the sights and sounds of everyday life and encounter untamed wildlife in rugged landscapes.
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Write to
1 Indian Well Headquarters
Tulelake, CA 96134
E-mail Us
Phone
General Information
(530) 667-8100
Administrative Issues & Staff
(530) 667-8104
Fax
(530) 667-2737
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Climate
The weather in northeastern California is particularly unpredictable and visitors should be ready for all conditions throughout the year. However, summers are generally sunny and warm while winters are cold with below-freezing nights and occasional snow. Visitors should always have warm clothing, sturdy boots, gloves, and protective headgear available if they plan to visit the lava tube caves.
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Did You Know?
Blue flax (linum lewisii) is a tall baby-blue flower that only opens its blooms during cool mornings in late spring. As the day warms, they fold closed and virtually disappear.
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Last Updated: August 29, 2008 at 13:21 EST |
