Right next door, the Golden Dome Cave glows with a yellowish translucence from bacteria deposits that coat the cave and ooze water droplets. Further on, the Garden Bridges, Blue Grotto, Paradise Alleys, and Sunshine Caves each offer unique experiences. When and Where Lava Beds National Monument is located in the remote northeast corner of California, just south of Klamath Falls, Oregon. The easiest access is to take Highway 97 north from Weed, State Route 161 east to the Tule Lake NWR, then head south to the Monument. Lava Beds is open year-round, but visit in the spring or fall in order to witness the staggering numbers of migrating ducks and geese on the adjacent wildlife refuges.
Winter is a time of great solitude, astonishing beauty, and surprisingly little snow.
Late spring brings many nesting birds and wildflowers. A highly recommended, beautiful campground in the Monument receives so few users that they don t take reservations. Or there are a few small hotels in nearby towns. This is a desert area, so water is scarce. Trails are exposed and can be quite hot in summer.