Just over the Southern Oregon border in Northern California is Lava Beds National Monument. Described as “the best park in California you’ve never been to”, Lava Beds features a remarkable volcanic landscape filled with fascinating geological formations and a rich cultural history. Located about a two-hour drive from The Resort at Eagle Point, this unique national park is well worth the trip.
A Journey Through Volcanic Terrain
Lava Beds National Monument is home to over 700 lava tube caves created by ancient volcanic activity from the Medicine Lake shield volcano. This network of caves provides a fascinating glimpse into the forces that shaped this landscape over thousands of years. While some caves are easy to explore with minimal gear, others are more challenging with narrow passages and rocky terrain.
Must-See Features at Lava Beds National Monument
1. The Lava Tube Caves
Without question, the highlight of Lava Beds National Monument is the lava tube caves. Whether you’re an experienced spelunker or looking for a family-friendly adventure, there’s a cave for you. The National Park Service has designated certain caves for easy, moderate, and challenging exploration. Popular ones include:
- Mushpot Cave: A beginner-friendly cave that’s well-lit and includes interpretive signs, making it ideal for first-time visitors or families with kids.
- Skull Cave: Known for its impressive ice floor, even during the warmer months.
- Sentinel Cave: One of the longer and easier caves to explore, perfect for those looking to get a sense of the monument’s lava tubes without too much effort.
Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, headlamps or flashlights, and a jacket—the caves can get chilly inside, even on hot days.
2. The Lava Beds Wilderness
If caving isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy. Lava Beds National Monument has several hiking trails that wind through lava flows, cinder cones, and stunning desert landscapes with views of the surrounding mountains and the Great Basin. Schonchin Butte is a favorite hike that leads to a fire lookout with panoramic views of the monument, the Medicine Lake volcano, and even Mount Shasta on clear days.
3. Petroglyph Point
Lava Beds is also steeped in history. The monument is home to Native American petroglyphs created by the Modoc people, who lived in the area for thousands of years. Near the northern boundary at Petroglyph Point, you’ll find some of North America’s oldest and most extensive rock art. Nearby, you can explore historical sites related to the Modoc War of 1872-73, a significant and tragic conflict between the Modoc people and the U.S. Army.
4. Captain Jack’s Stronghold
One of the most impactful of these historical sites is the naturally fortified lava bed area known as Captain Jack’s Stronghold. This area was a refuge for the Modoc people as a small band of Modoc warriors held off a much larger U.S. Army force for months during the Modoc War. Interpretive signs and walking paths guide visitors through this historic battlefield.
Plan Your Day Trip to Lava Beds National Monument
- What to Pack: If you plan to explore the caves, pack a flashlight or headlamp, sturdy shoes, gloves, and extra layers, as the caves can be quite cool, even on hot days.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration. Summers can get quite hot, but the caves stay cool year-round.
- Visitor Center: Stop by the Lava Beds National Monument Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and cave exploration tips.
- Cave Permits: Before entering the caves, all visitors must obtain a free cave permit from the visitor center to ensure compliance with park regulations and to help protect the caves from human impact.
Discover Lava Beds During Your Golfing Getaway at The Resort at Eagle Point
Lava Beds National Monument is the perfect day trip during your stay at The Resort at Eagle Point. Whether exploring lava tubes, hiking scenic trails, or learning about the Modoc people, this hidden gem offers a memorable experience you won’t want to miss during your stay.
Contact the team at The Resort at Eagle Point to add this unique experience to your personalized itinerary. From geological wonders to special package prices and preferential tee times at the renowned Eagle Point Golf Club, when you book directly with us, we’re ready to help you plan your perfect getaway. Call 541-879-3700 to book today.
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