CuteCamper
Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve
Craters of the Moon is a vast ocean of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush. We invite you to explore this "weird and scenic landscape" where yesterday's volcanic events are likely to continue tomorrow.
RecAreaDirections
Visitor Center and Loop Drive are located 18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho on U.S. Highway 20/26/93, 24 miles northeast of Carey, Idaho on U.S. Highway 20/26/93, 84 miles from Idaho Falls, and 90 miles from Twin Falls. Physical address is 1266 Craters Loop Road(Lat/Long: 43° 27.711'N/113° 33.7) Access to the main visitor use area is via a paved highway. Unpaved roads provide additional access to the BLM monument and NPS Preserve but should only be utilized by four wheel drive and high clearance vehicles.
Open with Google MapMisc
| Stay Limit | |
| Reservable | false |
| Keywords | |
| Map Link | |
| Contact Phone | |
| Contact Email |
Permits info
Facilities
Lava Flow Campground Campground
List of CampsitesThe Lava Flow Campground is a 42-site campground accessible by automobile from May through November. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some sites will accommodate large RVs, but no hookups are available.
Craters of the Moon Group Campground Campground
List of CampsitesOverview
This secluded camping area at Craters of the Moon National Monument is the perfect spot for organized groups. It is available by reservation only for groups of up to 30 people (May-September) for tent camping only.Recreation
The Visitor Center and scenic 7-mile Loop Drive are located 1.5 miles from the group campground on the south side of U.S. Highway 20/26/93. Climbing Sunset Cone is a strenuous activity but the views from the top are outstanding. Obtain an additional day-use permit for venturing north of the campground on Goodale's Cutoff. This historic trail was an alternative route used by pioneers travelling to the Oregon Territory. This dirt and gravel double-track road is a great place for riding a mountain bike. Obtain a map at the Visitor Center.Facilities
The group campground accommodates up to 30 people for tent camping only. The site has picnic tables, one large campfire ring, drinking water and a vault restroom. A large barbecue is also onsite for grilling with briquettes. The parking area will accommodate eight vehicles maximum (no RVs or trailers).Please be aware the campground has an accessible picnic table and vault toilet, but paths to these are not accessible.
Natural Features
Craters of the Moon is known for its extensive lava flows and well-preserved volcanic features. The group campground is located on the north side of U.S. Highway 20/26/93 at the base of Sunset Cone, a 12,000 year old cinder cone. A grove of Douglas fir trees grows on the shady north side of the volcano surrounding the group campground.Nearby Attractions
The Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway links the high peaks of the Lost River Range to the volcanic craters of Craters of the Moon. Restaurants, groceries and supplies are available in nearby Arco, Idaho (18 miles east).Robert Limbert Visitor Center Facility
When open, stop by the visitor center for maps and the Craters of the Moon Natural History Association bookstore, and of course: your passport stamp!
