lava lands visitor center

Went here while spending some time in Bend. The visitor's center is open May-October, but that doesn't mean you can park and hike around Lava Butte.This place is a startling and eye-opening view to the awesome things Mother Nature is capable of. The hike can get a little rough but the views are well worth it.This was a fun time to get out and see nature, even if the center is closed. The trek out there is well worth it.

We came here an hour before they opened. We walked around for less than a half hour and when we got back to our car, we got a ticket. We were very upset. The park officer said not to worry that you could just pay the entrance fee and they would negate the ticket which they promptly did but it was very disconcerning. They may want to think of a different way to handle that situation.Behind the visitor center, there are trails through lava flows which reminded us of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. It is a very interesting trail especially for those who are unfamiliar with the look of lava. We then lined up for Lava Butte. They only let so many cars up at a time since parking is limited. There is a nice view up there but you may have to wait a while before being let up there.I think this was an interesting park.

The Lava Lands Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the history and geology of the Central Oregon Basin. Located just south of Bend, OR it is conveniently located right next to US Route 97. From the Visitor Center you can branch out to visit all the other volcanic features in the area. If you are interested in volcanoes and how they shape the landscape, stop here and learn about them right in their midst.

The visitor center was closed, but, that didn't detour from hiking Lava Butte and the self-guided nature trail. It was a short steep climb to the top of the Butte, and the fire lookout on top. The fire lookout is powered by solar panels! It is very interesting and intriguing seeing the lava and learning about the natural history of this area. The self - guided trail had appropriate signs just where you could see and appreciate the natural features that were discussed on the signs. We had about a 5 mile walk, which was shorter than we normally do. It was fascinating, enjoyable and I learned some things about this area.

There's not much to see in this visitor center, except of the movie, which was very boring...Don't bother.

We were driving to Crater Lake from the Seattle area when we happened along this park. It was quite a unique experience. I recommend stopping to at least drive to the top of the butte to see how far this lava flow goes. It is very interesting to say the least.

This is a great stop when visiting central Oregon. You can spend an hour or half a day, depending on your interests. It is only open on weekends now (October), but refer to website for year round schedule. Visitor center has good short history and geology info. Of special note, there is a new bike trail from Sunriver to Lava Lands. It's a beautiful 5 mile ride through the Lodgepole pine forest. Also be sure to got to the top of Lava Butte to see the sights from the fire lookout cinder cone! Another bonus, a mostly shady parking lot is a great picnic spot.

Again we decided to have a detour, and were not disappointed with this stop. We climbed to the top of Lava Butte and had great views of the surrounding areas and the extinct volcano. Easy walk up to the summit. First time experience of seeing volcanic matter. Worth a visit.

When they say "Lava lands" they aren't kidding. Miles of hardened lava stretch everywhere creating a unique landscape. The ride to the top of the cone circumnavigates the volcanic cone leading to a great view from a different perspective. I'd urge folks not to miss this place!

We spotted Lava Lands Visitor Center and Lava Butte on our way to nearby Lapine State park. Due to the holiday weekend the first time we stopped there were no more passes to Lava Butte available. We stopped back by the next day on our way home and were glad we did. We were able to obtain the time pass to drive up to the top of Lava Butte and walk the trail at the summit. The view is amazing! Seeing the lava and checking out the cinder cone was a neat experience. Walking the trail it is loose pumice type rock that can shift underfoot. The 30 minutes allotted was just the perfect amount of time. We did not have time to check out the visitor center or any other trails, but would recommend based on Lava Butte alone.

From the top of the lava butte, you can hike around the caldera and take in the 360 degree views of the area stretching across the lava lands to the Deschutes River and Mt Bachelor in the distance. In the visitor center we were able to participate in a ranger talk to learn about the entire volcanic area, and then hike out onto the trail of molten land to explore the lava fields up close. It was a fascinating and beautiful hike and one of our favorite activities in the Bend area. You can easily spend 2+ hours here exploring.

I saw this place on our way to Bend! Literally a huge, ancient lava flow that dead ends at the highway. I knew I had to go here on the way back home. So we did! And I was not disappointed in the slightest. There are a few, easy, paved pathways through the old lava flows that you think you would only see in Hawaii. I never knew that Oregon was so volcanic. You can drive to the top of the cone but we didn't do that. We are hikers so hike in we did. The views are quite spectacular. You can see Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters from many of the viewpoints. We came as the fog was rolling through the area...breathtaking. There is also a lava tube that you can walk through but we didn't get to it based on time constraints. Next time for sure. Beware the mighty chipmunk and ground squirrels, they are everywhere and add to the charm of this treasure. Don't forget to see Nessie!

for $5 a car you can get in and walk among the lava beds...this is a great family hike and very peaceful and serene. You also will have access to drive your car to the top if you choose so. There are lots of little creatures to see and hunt for...bring a lunch and water and have a great picnic.

Have to be upfront, I LOVE the national parks, monuments, seashores, lake shores and so forth. Lava Lands does not disappoint.+ Very nice visitor center with interpretative displays+ Do make it a point to get a timed pass and drive to the top of the cinder cone. Fantastic vistas.Although we didn't have time for it (plus, we'd just come from Newberry and done hiking there) . . . there are asphalted trails for those who want to walk through lava. Good for those a little unsteady on their feet or families with small children.Driving near Bend, make it a point to stop!

We stopped here mostly for my nephew who absolutely loved this place! Great stop for families and kids but I enjoyed it too. I found the rangers helpful and knowledgeable. It allows a great opportunity to explore.