Lehman Caves is a window into the past. Information about past surface climates are preserved in the layers of cave formations, while much can be learned about natural history from the "treasures" found in old pack rat middens. Thus the cave has great potential for researchers to study both past climate change and the effects of climate change on plant and animal communities.

Water, geologic forces, and climatic changes combined to form Lehman Caves over a period of thousands to millions of years. Some cave formations are still actively forming today, others may restart in the future. Human activities in the cave and on the surface have the capability to affect Lehman Caves. Some scientists feel that there is an increase in pinyon pine and juniper trees in the South Snake Range due to fire suppression. This increase in trees would mean less moisture would make it down into the cave. Visitors on cave tours shed lint, skin, and hair. These unnatural additions to the cave change the ecosystem of the cave, and can affect the growth of formations. Development in the cave for tours, including two artificial tunnels and electric lights, also affect the cave.

The National Park Service is charged with the task of protecting the cave from these influences, while also sharing the special beauty of Lehman Caves with the visiting public. Tours are offered daily except Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year's Days. Fees range up to $10 per person.