Lava Flow Campground
4.5596 reviews1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, ID, 83213, USA
Lava Flow Campground
$0.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $15 during regular season when water is available (May–October); $8 during shoulder season (April and November) when water is unavailable; $0 in winter for walk-in camping (December–March). Discounts apply for Senior and Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled within the otherworldly landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument, Lava Flow Campground offers 42 intimate sites where adventurers can sleep beneath star-filled skies in one of America's most dramatic volcanic wonderlands. From April through November, this vehicle-accessible sanctuary serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient lava fields and mysterious caves. When winter blankets the monument in snow, the campground transforms into a serene wilderness retreat for hardy souls seeking solitude through walk-in snow camping.
Lava Flow Campground provides a mix of camping options, including sites for tents, RVs, and a designated accessible site. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are no group or walk-in sites.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of Apollo astronauts who once trained among these 2,000-year-old volcanic formations, preparing for their historic lunar missions. The stark, moon-like terrain provided NASA with the perfect earthbound laboratory for understanding extraterrestrial landscapes. Today, you can explore the same otherworldly features that helped humanity reach for the stars, making your camping experience a journey through both geological and space exploration history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's extremes in this land of fire and ice. Summer days blaze with desert intensity, pushing thermometers into the 90s while the dark lava beneath your feet radiates heat up to an astounding 170°F—bringing sunscreen and shade becomes essential. Winter wraps the volcanic landscape in a pristine blanket of snow, with depths varying from a delicate 2-inch dusting to dramatic 26-inch drifts. For the most comfortable camping experience, visit during the golden months of spring and fall, when gentle temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking and stargazing.
ElevationPerched in Idaho's high desert country, the campground's elevation creates a unique microclimate where scorching summer days give way to refreshingly cool nights, and winter's grip brings alpine-like conditions to this volcanic wilderness. This elevated position intensifies both the heat of summer and the cold of winter, creating dramatic temperature swings that add to the area's wild character.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine pitching your tent in nature's sculpture garden, where ancient volcanic forces have crafted a mesmerizing landscape of twisted basaltic lava flows, towering cinder cones, and delicate pumice formations. Your campsite becomes a front-row seat to this geological theater, with many sites naturally framed by weathered lava rocks that create intimate spaces within the vast volcanic expanse. Each sunrise and sunset paints these primordial formations in shifting hues, transforming the seemingly barren landscape into a canvas of shadows and light.
Geological RegionCraters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve showcases one of Earth's most remarkable volcanic provinces, where massive basaltic lava flows have created a 750,000-acre museum of volcanic artistry. This protected wonderland preserves a complete volcanic ecosystem featuring everything from delicate lava tubes to massive cinder cones, offering campers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a landscape that seems more at home on a distant planet than in the heart of Idaho.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved roads. Site 34 is specifically designated as accessible and includes an electrical outlet for medical use. Terrain at individual campsites may vary.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating a range of setups from small tents to RVs as large as 100 feet. Specific sites like #12 and #34 are highlighted for their spaciousness.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some sites are well-sheltered by lava rock formations, while others are more exposed. Sites such as #29 and #38 are noted for privacy.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure desirable sites such as Site 12 or Site 29. Shade is limited, so campsites with trees are preferable in summer.
Best CampsitesHighly recommended sites include Site 12 for its spaciousness, Site 29 for wind protection, and Site 38 for privacy and elevated views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available 24/7.
Check-out
Check-out is before noon each day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not explicitly stated, but system requires daily re-registration.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates a single vehicle and accompanying campers.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a loop and include areas for tents, small RVs, and pull-throughs for larger rigs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 10–November 15 for vehicles; winter walk-in tent camping allowed with free permit from December–March.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; on-site self-pay kiosk only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Early arrival recommended, as campground fills quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations allowed; all sites are first-come, first-served. Cancellation policies do not apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Lava Flow Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a mix of activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. Visitors can easily access trails leading to nearby geological features, and ranger-led programs are available during the warmer months.
Hiking
Several trails, including the North Crater Trail, are accessible directly from the campground. These trails vary in difficulty and offer spectacular views of the volcanic landscape.Wildlife viewing
The unique volcanic terrain of the campground provides opportunities for observing local wildlife. Specific species were not noted in the materials.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal ranger programs are conducted at the amphitheater, including night star talks and geology-focused events.Winter Activities
Tent snow camping is allowed during the winter months with a free permit. The region experiences significant snow and cold temperatures.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Charcoal fires are permitted in grills; wood fires are prohibited year-round.
- Quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high surface temperatures in summer, strong winds, and slippery basalt stones. Fine pumice dust may infiltrate tents during windstorms.
Active alertsSeasonal closures from November to mid-April; access is restricted during winter months.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services: Police and medical facilities are located in Arco, ID, approximately 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is May–October when water is available; shoulder season is April and November.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection facilities are available year-round near the entrance of the campground, and users are encouraged to utilize them to reduce landfill waste.
Proximity to water featuresNo natural water features nearby; potable water available seasonally within the campground.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of RV hookups and a dump station, occasional generator noise, and high temperatures during summer.
HostNo hosts are available on-site.
Campground Map
1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, ID, 83213, USA
Driving directionsLocated on the Loop Road 1/4 mile past the visitor center.
The campground is accessible via paved roads but closes seasonally in winter. The Loop Road to the campground typically reopens mid-April depending on snow conditions.Nearby places
Arco - 18 miles (~20 minutes)
Idaho Falls - ~67 miles (~1.5 hours)
Twin Falls - ~136 miles (~2 hours 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies: Fuel, grocery stores, and camping supplies are available in Arco, ID, approximately 18 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
96 reviews
Lava Flow Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lava Flow Campground is widely appreciated for its unique setting amidst volcanic terrain, clean facilities, and proximity to Craters of the Moon attractions. However, its lack of showers, hookups, and occasional crowding during peak seasons are noted by users.
Review Summaries
Based on 96 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, unique volcanic landscape, reasonable $15/night fee, proximity to trails and visitor center, stargazing, and ranger programs are consistently praised.
Based on 96 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of showers, limited shade, poor cell reception, and absence of dump stations for RVs are common drawbacks. Some users also complain about generator noise and campsite spacing.
Based on 96 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site, especially during peak times. Bring adequate water and supplies as services in nearby towns are limited. Shade is minimal, so plan accordingly with extra protection....
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in summer, with some complaints about heat and crowding. Spring and fall are recommended for milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible but requires a...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is a first-come, first-serve campground inside the national monument. What a crazy place to visit!" (Misty Massey) "The kids loved to scamper on all the rocks around camp. Good tables and such...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 and #2 are suitable for big rigs seeking isolation. Site #12 accommodates a 39' fifth wheel and offers some shade. Site #34 is an accessible site with an outlet. Site #38 is noted for privacy...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Restrooms are wheelchair accessible, and Site 34 is ADA-compliant with an outlet for medical devices. Paved roads offer some accessibility, though terrain varies.
Based on 96 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but volcanic rock can be hard on paws. Keep pets leashed and avoid walking them during peak heat due to hot surfaces.
Based on 96 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025