National parks get a lot of love on Outdoors Wire. These destinations aren’t the only National Park Service (NPS) sites that deserve a visit, though. Some areas, like Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, even have landscapes that rival those found in national parks.
Historic lava flows formed Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. Described by the NPS as “weird and scenic,” the area is full of martian-esque features. Adventurers will find craters, of course, but they’ll also discover wildflowers blooming out of ancient black lava. Even night owls can enjoy the region for its clear, starry skies. Explore these sights and more in the gallery below.