Lava Tubes in California

• What is Lava Beds National Monument?
  • Lava Beds National Monument is the number one spot for lava tubes in California, attracting tens of thousands of visitors per year.
• Where is Lava Beds National Monument located?
  • The monument is located in northern California, near the border with Oregon.
• How many lava tubes are at Lava Beds National Monument?
  • There are more than 700 lava tubes at this location, making it a premier site for cave exploration.
• Can visitors explore all the lava tubes?
  • While visitors cannot explore every single tube, at least 20 of the most-developed lava tubes are usually open for exploration throughout the year.
• Are guided tours available?
  • Yes, guided tours can be reserved to help visitors learn more about the cave systems.
• What are the easiest lava tubes to explore?
  • The easiest lava tubes to explore include:
    • Big Painted
    • Mushpot
    • Sentinel
    • Heppe
• Which lava tubes are more challenging?
  • More challenging caves, such as Labyrinth and Lava Brook, may require crawling and a certain level of physical fitness.
• Where can visitors learn more about the lava tubes?
  • All guests are encouraged to visit the visitor center and speak with staff to learn more about the monument's unique features.
• Where is Lava Beds National Monument located?
  • 1 Indian Well Hqts, Tulelake, CA 96134, Phone: 530-667-8100

• Where are the Pisgah Lava Tubes located?
  • The Pisgah Lava Tubes are found at the Pisgah Crater in Southern California.
• How many lava tubes are in the Pisgah Crater area?
  • There are multiple lava tubes in this area, offering unique cave exploration opportunities.
• What is the largest lava tube in this area?
  • The largest and best-known lava tube in the Pisgah Crater area is SPJ Cave, which runs for approximately 1,300 feet.
• Are there staff or guides available on-site?
  • No, there are no staff or guided tours available at this location, so visitors must explore on their own.
• Is Pisgah Crater a heavily visited site?
  • Unlike Lava Beds National Monument, this site is less frequently visited, meaning visitors may have the area largely to themselves on quieter days.

Map:

• Where is Subway Cave located?
  • Subway Cave is located in Lassen National Forest in northern California, not far from Lava Beds National Monument.
• How long is Subway Cave?
  • Subway Cave is a large, open lava tube that runs for approximately 1/3 of a mile.
• What makes Subway Cave a popular attraction?
  • The cave features a bumpy floor and unique rock formations, making it a must-visit for lava tube enthusiasts in California.
• Are guided tours available at Subway Cave?
  • Yes, guided tours are available at this location during the summer months.
• Where is Subway Cave located?
  • Old Station, CA 96071, Phone: 530-336-5521

• What is The Lava Tube at Mojave National Preserve?
  • The Lava Tube at Mojave National Preserve is one of the smallest and easiest-to-miss lava tubes in California, but it is a must-visit for caving enthusiasts.
• Why is this lava tube unique?
  • The tube is known for its stunning ray of light that shines down into the cave, creating a breathtaking visual effect.
• Is The Lava Tube at Mojave National Preserve easy to access?
  • Yes, the tube has a full stairway installed and a nice flat floor, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
• What makes the lighting effect inside the lava tube special?
  • Due to the way the cave was formed, sunlight enters through an opening, casting a dramatic and ethereal glow inside the tube.

• What should I keep in mind when exploring lava tubes in California?
  • When planning a lava tube expedition in California, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• What is the temperature like inside lava tubes?
  • Even on sunny days with 90-degree weather, the air inside the caves remains cold. Temperatures rarely exceed 40°F, so packing coats and layered clothing is essential to stay warm.
• What type of footwear should I wear?
  • Strong footwear is crucial, as the caves often have slippery surfaces.
• Is protective clothing recommended?
  • Yes, visitors may need to bend down or even crawl in certain areas, so wearing jeans and jackets can help prevent scrapes or cuts on the rocky walls and floors.
• Should I bring a flashlight?
  • Absolutely! It can get very dark inside a lava tube, so bringing a flashlight is essential for visibility and safety.