50 State Challenge - IDAHO

Idaho may not come to mind as an ideal spot to spend a vacation there. However, Idaho has some amazing natural oddities that you can't find anywhere else. For example, who knew that Idaho had an ancient lava field?

The Craters of the Moon National Park in Idaho is truly one of a kind. Craters of the Moon is in south-central Idaho, half way between Boise and Yellowstone National Park. Craters of the Moon is one of the largest lava fields in the United States. There are 60 visible lava flows here and the oldest was formed 15,000 years ago.

One of the many lava fields at the park

The park is open all year round, but the winter snow may prevent cars from accessing some of the park. The visitor center is also open year round from 8 am to 4:30 pm.  The entrance fee is only $8 per vehicle and those entering the park by bike, motorcycle or foot only have to pay $4 per person. People under the age of 15 are free to enter and during the winter when the park roads are close there is no fee.

Day trips are very common here, but a lot of people love to stay the night as well. There is a campground that is open from May through November and has 51 sites available. There are no reservations at this campground as it is a first come first served basis. During the summer months its only $10 per site and $6 for non summer months. Water, restrooms, charcoal grills and picnic tables are also available at the campsite.

Besides enjoying the scenery, Craters of the Moon National Park has several outdoor activities to enjoy. Hiking is probably the most popular activity to do. For a list of hiking trail, you can check them out here.  Another popular activity here is exploring the vast cave system and lava tubes. For more information on cave exploration click here 

Craters of the Moon 

P.O. Box 29

Arco, ID 83213

Visitor Info - 208-527-1335