Yellow sandstone cliff at sunset with dark lava field in background — Sandstone Bluffs Overlook offers a beautiful view over the vast volcanic landscape of El Malpais. NPS Kristi Rugg

El Malpais National Monument

National Monument · New Mexico · National Park Service

Camping

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais (el-mal-pie-EES) offers solitude, recreation, and adventure. Explore incredible geologic features such as young lava flows, cinder cones, lava tubes, and sandstone bluffs. While some may see a desolate environment, people have been adapting to and living in this extraordinary terrain for generations. Come visit the land of frozen fire!

Plan your visit

Trails & hiking

Hiking

Camping

Camping · Backcountry Camping

Site types & reservations: see the official site.

Know before you go

Phone: 5058762783
Official site: www.nps.gov
Managed by: National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

Things to do

Highlights: Animals · Caves, Caverns and Karst · Fire · Unique Species · Rare · Volcanoes

Activities & features: Arts and Culture · Auto and ATV · Scenic Driving · Astronomy · Caving · Guided Tours · Self-Guided Tours - Walking · Hunting and Gathering · Gathering and Foraging · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching · Park Film · Shopping · Bookstore and Park Store