Discover Lava Flow Campground

227 reviews

Lava Flow Campground Introduce

Lava Flow Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the rugged landscape of Arco, Idaho, offering a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience for campers and nature enthusiasts. Located near the Craters of the Moon National Monument, this campground provides a perfect blend of civilization and wild terrain, making it a popular destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

At Lava Flow Campground, you'll find a unique camping environment that surrounds you with lava rocks, creating a fascinating and memorable setting. The campground offers both RV sites and tent camping options, complete with basic amenities like restrooms and drinking water. While there are no showers available on-site, the convenience of paved walking paths and nearby attractions makes up for this minor inconvenience.

One of the standout features of Lava Flow Campground is its proximity to an array of hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. From short strolls along paved paths to challenging day hikes over rugged terrain, there's something for everyone. The north crater trail is particularly recommended for its breathtaking views and relative ease of navigation. Visitors have praised the solitude and stunning natural beauty of the area, describing it as a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For those who enjoy stargazing, Lava Flow Campground offers unparalleled opportunities due to its remote location and low light pollution. The vast, open sky provides an excellent backdrop for observing stars, making it a favorite spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Additionally, the campground's elevated lava mounds offer incredible sunset views, adding to the charm of this unique destination.

Lava Flow Campground is also known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming environment. Many visitors appreciate the sense of community that arises from sharing the experience with fellow campers. The availability of picnic tables, fire pits, and trash collection areas ensures that guests can enjoy their stay comfortably while respecting nature.

Customer Feedback

"This is an all-round great campground. Only thing it lacks is showers but I wouldn’t complain especially since it’s only a national monument. The campground itself is very cool and unique and molds around the lava rocks."

"Plenty of sights, information, hiking, etc. One day we hiked WAY southward, over 5 miles each direction out and back. It was semi-level, no real climbing, but awesomely rugged, lonely, beautiful."

"Great sunset views from the lava mounds. Was even able to snag free wifi from the visitor centre overnight from my tent which is a treat."

Lava Flow Campground is more than just a place to pitch your tent; it's an opportunity to connect with nature and explore Idaho's unique geological wonders. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a family with kids, or part of a group, Lava Flow Campground offers something for everyone. So why not pack up your RV or tent and head to Arco, Idaho, to experience the magic of Lava Flow Campground?

Location

Idaho Butte County Arco

Customer Reviews

4.0

227 reviews

Greg Illes

Feb 12, 2025

Great spot to visit, we stayed several days. "Civilized" campground and some paved walking paths, but lots of natural, unmodified terrain as well. Plenty of sights, information, hiking, etc. One day we hiked WAY southward, over 5 miles each direction out and back. It was semi-level, no real climbing, but awesomely rugged, lonely, beautiful.

Scott T

Aug 17, 2024

This is an all round great campground. Only thing it lacks is showers but I wouldn’t complain especially since it’s only a national monument. The campground itself is very cool and unique and molds around the lava rocks. There are many nice trails in walking distance from the sites, I’d recommend the north crater trail for sure. Great sunset views from the lava mounds. Was even able to snag free wifi from the visitor centre overnight from my tent which is a treat. Also if you like star gazing, this whole region is really really great for that

Kurt Guenther

Sep 02, 2024

This is a great national monument with wonderful trails with plenty to see even for people reluctant to leave their cars. The campground is well designed with running water for sinks and toilets (with a few pit toilets thrown in. Why 3 stars? RVers run their generators non-stop from dusk to dawn. I wouldn't grudge some battery top up, pot of coffee, or waffles, but 12+ hours? Such people belong in an rv park and not a family campground, but the campground rules permit it and people definitely take advantage of the leniency.

Joel T.

Dec 31, 2024

We had a blast at this location. Campground is very clean, beautiful view, and great selection of spots. Price was extremely reasonable. Decent bathrooms and places to fill water as well. The only downside is no fires allowed. Only coal for cooking.

Shauna Baird

Oct 03, 2024

After exploring the park, we decided to see if there was any open sites and there were plenty. For first come first serve, just choose a site, register and pay ($15) at kiosk, and put receipt in site post. We stayed in the farthest section (area not recommended for 5th wheels and long trailers) and it was so quiet and dark. If the wind is blowing, it usually dies off by 8-9 pm. Beautiful night skies! No electricity, water available at spigots located all over, and huge trash bins.

Ron Dohmer

May 14, 2024

With our National Parks pass and senior discount this park only cost us $4. The campground is very unique nestled in between all the lava rock. Very clean bathrooms but no water or electricity while we were there in Mid May.