National Monument & Preserve
Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve is a National Monument & Preserve in Idaho. The NPS currently lists 2 active alerts (1 closure), 1 campground and 1 visitor center; entrance fees start at $10.
Idaho National Monument & Preserve America the Beautiful pass accepted
Updated · NPS Data API
“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.”
Active alerts
2
Closures
1
Campgrounds
1
Visitor centers
1
2 active NPS alerts as of Oct 28, 2026: 1 closure, 0 danger, 1 caution and 0 information.
Closure
The park bookstore is currently transitioning to a new partner. The park is working to identify and establish a new bookstore provider, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available. Due to this transition, a bookstore with items for purchase will not be in service until a new partner is established. Thank you for your patience during this transition.
Posted or updated Sep 29, 2026 ·Park conditions on nps.gov
Caution
Please do not rely upon GPS digital navigation systems to find your way to Craters of the Moon. Please note that the Robert Limbert Visitor Center at 1266 Craters Loop Road is located just off U.S. Highway 20/26/93 and is not accessed via any unpaved roads.
Posted or updated May 20, 2026 ·Details on nps.gov
Credit cards are the only form of payment accepted at the automated fee machine and the entrance booth. If you would prefer to pay with cash, please first stop by the visitor center to obtain an entrance voucher for cash payment.
| Fee | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance - Private Vehicle | $20 | This per-vehicle fee applies to private, non-commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. |
| Entrance - Motorcycle | $15 | Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. |
| Commercial Entrance - Sedan | $25 | This per-vehicle fee applies to commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. |
| Entrance - Per Person | $10 | This per-person fee provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. Youth age 15 and under are free. |
| Entrance - Education/Academic Groups | Free | Classes or groups from accredited academic institutions may apply for a fee waiver ahead of their visit by contacting the park. |
| Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach | $100 | This per-vehicle fee applies to commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. |
| Commercial Entrance - Van | $40 | This per-vehicle fee applies to commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. |
| Pass | Cost | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Entrance - Park | $35 | At the park |
The interagency America the Beautiful pass is accepted here.
Earn your Junior Ranger badge for Craters of the Moon while learning about the park by completing this fun activity book.
15-30 Minutes
Explore Craters' dynamic underground world of lava tubes.
60-90 Minutes Summer, Fall
Caving
Enjoy an easy, 0.5 mile walk through an open limber pine woodland.
30-45 Minutes Spring, Summer, Fall
See all 11 things to do in Craters Of The Moon →
Activities the NPS lists for Craters Of The Moon.
Auto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyStargazingBikingRoad BikingCampingBackcountry CampingCavingHikingBackcountry HikingJunior Ranger ProgramSkiingCross-Country SkiingSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park StoreGift Shop and Souvenirs
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The Loop Road is typically open from mid April through late November as conditions allow.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | All Day |
| Tuesday | All Day |
| Wednesday | All Day |
| Thursday | All Day |
| Friday | All Day |
| Saturday | All Day |
| Sunday | All Day |
Weather: Weather at Craters of the Moon is characterized by hot summers and cold winters. In February, average snow depth ranges from 26 inches at the north end of the monument to just 2 inches at the south end.
| Visitor center | Standard hours | Phone | Passport stamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Limbert Visitor Center | Daily: 9:00AM - 4:30PM | 2085271335 | Yes |
| Campground | Total sites | Reservable | First-come | RVs | Fee | Reserve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lava Flow Campground | 42 | 0 | 42 | Yes | $15 | — |
Site counts and fees are from the NPS campground data. Fees show the first listed rate; availability is not shown here — check the reservation site.
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