Lava Beds National Monument

As the Sierra Nevadas turn into the Cascades and the mountains move from the eastern edge of California to the middle of the state, a high desert is formed in Northeastern California. The area resembles parts of Oregon, Nevada and Idaho more than what people think California should look like. With Potatoes and horseradish grown in the area there are many sites to see in this part of California that not many will see.

Besides the scene of the Modoc Indian wars against the U.S. Calvary, a stand off in a hideout of lava beds and a varied cave system there is much to see here. You can also see an old Japanese interment camp and bighorn sheep on the steep slopes to the west.

While the park system used to loan out Coleman lanterns to cave visitors they now rent out flashlights. Bring your own Coleman for a much better view of the cave system. At the main park you can even watch a movie about the site in a well lit cave that has been turned into a theater. Some of the best caves in the system are the ice caves. Savvy cavers will carry a sweater into the cave despite the surface temperature being in the 80’s to 100’s in the summer it will drop to freezing in as you get deeper.

The massive lava flows and cinder cones around the area are another site not to miss. See part of California the few people get to.

Don’t miss this place it is great. Bring water, and plenty of lights. If you really want a good experience, plan on crawling, wear knee pads, sweater or old coat, gloves (for protection), and a map.

Lava Beds is a spectacular area. Tons of caves to explore, Learn about how the area was made by the volcanic activity that happened pretty recent according to geology. I love it! And how can you get tired of a place that has neverending places to explore!