Catacombs Cave — Attraction in California

Our second stop in the cave loop drive. It was AMAZING!! Some caves were closed, but this one wasn't. There are steep steps to go down into the cave, so watch your head. Of course it's dark, so flashlights/headlamps are a MUST! We did not bring or purchase helmets or knee pads, because we did not plan on going all the way through. It was only a day visit, and we wanted to go into as many caves as could before dark, so we didn't have time. And we were extra careful. It is easy to hit your head or scrape your knees. The ground is uneven, so you really have to watch your step. There wasn't many people here for a holiday weekend. I think it's one of the parks that doesn't get a lot of attention. But it is so worth the trip out here! There is a fee to get in. But we had a national parks pass, so we were able to...

I recommend downloading the digital PDF map of the catacombs off of the Lava Bed NP website! It’s much more accurate than the paper copy provided in the visitor center.

Certainly not simple walking, beginner cave exploration after you get to the boxing glove since the passages get narrow and it’s a lot of belly crawls. Definitely intermediate level and certainly doable! Almost 7000ft Maps are a must as well as multiple flashlights. Kneepads and bump hat ($8 at the Visitor Center) are recommended if going further and doing the belly crawls sections - hit my head several times during some belly crawls and my helmet had deep scratches. $25 entrance fee for 7 days of entry...

A 4-6 hr long multi-track underground lava tube. It's very confusing and challenging requiring crawling at various points. Can easily get lost without a detailed map and injured if unprepared. We only went through about one third of one track but the tube was getting lower and lower to about 3 feet high. With only a cellphone flashlight for myself, and no helmet or other equipment, I decided to head back. Make sure to stop by the Visitor's center first and talk to the rangers if you want to take on this...