David Hays

A red fox passes near the Visitor Center

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.

IMPORTANT NEWS: If you plan to go caving at Lava Beds and have been caving in the Eastern United States anytime recently, please read this important information to protect Lava Beds' bats from a deadly disease: White-Nose Syndrome in Bats

More information on all Lava Beds animals>>>
Bats brochure
Butterfly checklist (updated in 2008)

David Hays

Wyoming paintbrush blooms in early summer

Plants

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 high buttes, open plains, lava flows both old and new, and cave entrances all provide unique conditions for plants to grow.

More information on all Lava Beds plants>>>
Plants checklist

David Hays

Snow blankets the monument's weather station

Climate & Environmental Factors

The lava beds are an amazing natural laboratory. Here one can study the starry night skies, the impact of climate change or wildland fires, invasions of exotic weeds, even the effects of international industrial pollution.

More information>>>
Lava Beds Fire Management brochure
Climate Change in National Parks brochure

David Hays

Unique geology in a lava tube cave

Natural Features & Ecosystems

Extensive lava tube caves and volcanic geologic features are one of the main reasons the monument was created. These unique places provide exciting recreation for visitors and critical habitat for unique plants and animals.

Lava Beds Geology brochure
Lava Beds Caves brochure

More info coming soon>>>