National Monument · California
Lava Beds National Monument
The most lava-tube caves in North America
TypeNational Monument
StateCalifornia
Best seasonLate spring through fall
Don’t missLava-tube caves
A volcanic tableland in far Northern California riddled with hundreds of lava-tube caves you can explore by headlamp, plus Modoc War history and superb dark skies. Bring a light and go underground.
What to see
- Mushpot & Valentine caves
- Skull Cave ice
- Schonchin Butte lookout
- Petroglyph Point
- Captain Jack’s Stronghold
On public wild lands, services are sparse and conditions change fast — check the managing agency (Forest Service / BLM / Park Service) for road and seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any permits before you go, and pack out what you pack in.
Build a trip around wild places like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: