Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument
Reviewed Oct. 30, 2020

Nestled in the lava landscape

Prepare to have your mind blown as you roll in to Lava Flow Campground. It is nestled in the uniquely lunar landscape caused by, well, lava flow. The grounds sit at the entrance of the scenic 7-mile loop that provides access to trails that take you over, under, and around various volcanic features.

We went during COVID times, so there was no access to the caves. Still, it was a memorable experience driving the loop and hiking around. In late October, the water was shut off due to frozen pipes, restrooms were closed except for the vault toilets. We found the vaults to be remarkably clean and unstinky. 

The sites varied drastically in quality and size- probably because they were built around existing landscape that begged to be preserved. Because it was a weekday and off-season, we had the grounds to ourselves and took our time selecting the best site, and made sure to mark our favorites for the next trip. Site 27 was our favorite for sweeping views and size, but we ended up staying in 29, which is nestled on its own in some lava rocks that provide wind protection.

Site29
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020
  • Review photo of Lava Flow Campground — Craters of the Moon National Monument by Stephanie V., October 30, 2020