Lava Beds National Monument - Nature & Science (U.S. National Park Service)

IMPORTANT NEWS: If you plan to go caving at Lava Beds and have been caving or exploring mines East of the Rocky Mountains recently (within the past 5 years), please read this important information to protect Lava Beds' bats from a deadly disease: White-nose Syndrome in Bats >>>

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A young coyote, seen 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.
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Wyoming paintbrush in early summer

Plants

Even the small changes in elevation, soil, and shade found on our high buttes, open plains, lava flows, and cave entrances provide unique conditions for plants to grow.
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Unique geology in a lava tube cave

Natural Features & Ecosystems

Extensive lava tube caves and volcanic geologic features are provide exciting unique recreation for visitors and critical habitat for special plants and animals.
Geology brochure >>>
Caves brochure >>>

David Hays

Snow blankets the monument's weather station, where temperature, wind speeds, precipitation amounts, and air quality have been tracked for decades

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.
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