Idaho / Butte County / Craters of the Moon National Monument

Lava Flow Campground

Open — Currently in winter walk-in mode with no vehicle access to the campground. Free winter camping is available December through March, but visitors must walk, bike, snowshoe, or ski their gear in. No water is available. Vehicle access typically resumes in May depending on snow conditions.

About

Located a quarter mile past the visitor center on Loop Road, Lava Flow Campground provides 42 first-come, first-served campsites amid the striking volcanic terrain of Craters of the Moon National Monument. The campground operates on a seasonal schedule, with vehicle access typically available from May through November depending on snow conditions. During the regular season (May through October when water is available), sites cost $15 per night, with discounts available for Senior and Access Pass holders. Shoulder season rates of $8 per night apply in April and November when water is unavailable. Winter camping from December through March is free but walk-in only, with no vehicle access to the campground. The campground features sites of various sizes, including large pull-through spaces up to 100 feet that can accommodate big rigs, though hookups are not available and it is not recommended to take RVs and trailers beyond site 15 due to size limitations. Site 34 is designated as accessible and includes an electrical outlet for medical use. Amenities during the regular season include flush toilets, potable water, and food storage lockers, while vault toilets remain available year-round. No wood fires are permitted, but charcoal fires are allowed in the provided grills. All sites include picnic tables and fire grills. Quiet hours run from 10 pm to 6 am.

Directions

Located on the Loop Road 1/4 mile past the visitor center at 1266 Craters Loop Road. Access from U.S. Highway 20/26/93. Do not rely on GPS navigation systems; the visitor center is accessed via paved roads, not unpaved routes.

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