The arrival of European Man signaled the end of their civilization as they knew it. It is a wonder world of Mother Nature created by volcanoes and lava flows. It has miles of lava tube caves formed when lava flows ceased suddenly and the molten rock drained from hardened flow.
Many miles are open for public exploring including a lighted cave at park headquarters.
Special features such as Fern Cave and several ice caves make for an interesting adventure. During the winter months wintering mule deer herds abound to entertain the wildlife watcher. The lava beds area has a very rich history including the last battleground of the Indian Wars. It is the sight of the only Indian war fought in California, the Modoc Indian War of 1873. The tribes of the Klamath Basin only used one name.