Nature & Science

Please help us protect the bats at Lava Beds. If you plan to go caving at Lava Beds and have been in a cave or mine East of the Rocky Mountains in the United States or Canada or anywhere in Europe or China, please read this important information about the deadly disease known as White-nose Syndrome.

 

A herd of mule deer.

Photo: N Charlton

Animals

You might be surprised by the variety of wildlife that overcomes dry summers, cold winters, and scarce water to thrive here. Learn more about the park's wildlife

 

Manzanita blooms along the Big Nasty Trail.

Photo: Alison Bender

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.

• Learn more about the park's plants
• View a plant species checklist

 

Unique geology in a lava tube cave.

Photo: David Hays

Natural Features & Ecosystems

Extensive lava tube caves and volcanic geologic features provide an exciting and unique recreation for visitors and a critical habitat for special plants and animals. Learn more about caves

 

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

Photo: David Hays

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, and even the effects of international industrial pollution. Learn more about the park's environment

 

Medicine Lake Volcano is a shield volcano built almost entirely of fluid lava flows. Shield volcanos are named for their large size and low profile, resembling a warrior's shield.  Also visible are many cinder cones.

Nico Ramirez

Geology of the Medicine Lake Volcano

Medicine Lake Volcano has been active for 500,000 years. The eruptions were gentle, rather than explosive like Mount St. Helens, and coated the volcano's sides with flow after flow of basaltic lava.

• Download a geology brochure
• View a geologic map of the volcano
• Read a hazards assessment for Medicine Lake Volcano

 

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  Tracking Nature's Vital Signs: Caves

  Does nature have vital signs? Just as you and I visit the doctor regularly to track our blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall health, scientists monitor the long-term health of parks. Go behind the scenes to learn about Lava Beds’ unique caves and experience a park checkup.

  Duration:

  8 minutes, 5 seconds