Vacation opportunities in Modoc County are rich and varied - you'll find everything from stunning wildlife to more caves then you can shake a stick at! Below we've put together some of our favorite sites for a day that encapsulates the best that Modoc County has to offer.
Lava Beds National Monument
Start your day exploring the varied landscape of Lava Beds National Monument. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. More than 800 caves, Native American rock art sites, historic battlefields, and a high desert wilderness experience await you.
The caves at Lava Beds are the star of the show, and there are certainly plenty to choose from! There are opportunities for everyone, from the first-time cave visitor to the experienced spelunker. Or, you can always join a ranger for a guided tour of Fern Cave or the Crystal Ice Cave, some of the most spectacular caves on property. (Available seasonally.)
After you're done at Lava Beds, stop for lunch in Alturas at the Niles Hotel. The Niles Coffee Company offers sandwiches, burgers, and salads, along with coffee and fresh pastries.
Modoc National Wildlife Refuge
Your next stop is the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is home to bald eagles, peregrine falcons, goshawks, golden eagles, and many other endangered species. On the land, Rocky Mountain Elk and Mule Deer, wild horses, burros, and pronghorn antelope are just a few of Modoc County’s happy inhabitants.
After you've explored the refuge, head in to relax for the night at either Cockrell's High Desert Lodging or Surprise Valley Hotsprings. Cockrells' Ranch & High Desert Lodging is surrounded by beautiful views of mountains, cattle, and wildlife. House the whole family in one of their lodges and experience the peacefulness that only country style living has to offer. Alternatively, if you don't have kids in your party, there's nothing more relaxing then a stay at Surprise Valley Hotsprings. Come get away and soak in your own private hot tub fed by a natural artisan hot spring.