The Lava Flow Campground offers a unique camping experience and is conveniently located near the park visitor center and popular trails.
Open

The campground is open for the season. From May through October when water is available, the fee is $15 per night. Shoulder season rates of $8 per night apply in April and November when water is unavailable. Winter camping is free but walk-in only when the Loop Road is closed. All 42 sites are first-come, first-served with no advance reservations.

Frost Advisory issued May 21 at 5:50AM MDT until May 22 at 9:00AM MDT by NWS Pocatello ID

5:50 AM — 3:00 PM

* WHAT...Temperatures of 32 to 36 will result in frost formation. Isolated rural areas could briefly drop to 30 degrees. * WHERE...Arco/Mud Lake Desert and Upper Snake River Plain. * WHEN...From 3 AM to 9 AM MDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered.

About

Lava Flow Campground sits a quarter mile past the visitor center along the Loop Road, carved into the volcanic terrain of Craters of the Moon National Monument. The 42 sites are arranged among existing lava rock formations that create natural windbreaks and privacy barriers. Each site includes a picnic table and charcoal grill, though wood fires are prohibited throughout the monument. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Facilities include seasonal flush toilets and potable water (typically May through October), with vault toilets available year-round near the entrance. Some sites feature large pull-through parking spaces up to 100 feet, though taking RVs and trailers beyond site 15 is not recommended due to size limitations. No hookups are available. Site 34 is designated accessible and includes an electrical outlet for medical equipment use. The monument's 2017 designation as an International Dark Sky Park makes this an exceptional location for night sky observation. Payment is by credit card only at the automated fee machine. During winter months when the Loop Road closes, visitors may snow camp by walking into the campground with a free permit.

Directions

Located on the Loop Road 1/4 mile past the visitor center at Craters of the Moon National Monument.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed No
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $8 - $15

Vehicle

Max RV Length 100ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly Yes
Pull Through Sites Yes

Contact

Email crmo_information@nps.gov
Phone +1 (208) 527-1335

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Photos

The Lava Flow Campground offers a unique camping experience and is conveniently located near the park visitor center and popular trails.
The Lava Flow Campground offers 42 sites nestled among the black lava rocks between the visitor center and North Crater.
Some sites offer pull-through parking for trailers and RVs.
This campground offers the experience of camping on one of the youngest lava flows in the park.
Campsites vary in size and may be back-in or pull-through.
Campsites offer stark views of the unique volcanic landscape.
In the summer, evening programs may be offered at the amphitheater.
Camp on the moon...

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