Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
As a key part of the National Park Service in California, Tule Lake National Monument offers a rich combination of natural wonders and cultural history. It is a fantastic destination for families, hikers, and photographers looking to capture the authentic spirit of the region.
About Tule Lake National Monument
Tule Lake National Monument is a national monument located in California. Summer daytime highs average 75° to 80°F; lows average 50°F. Occasional thunderstorms occur in summer. Winter daytime highs average 40°F; lows average 20°F. Morning fog is frequent from autumn through spring.
The visitor center is located 8 miles south of Tulelake CA along Hwy 139 at 44340 Hwy 139. Tulelake, CA 96134. We are the only driveway off the hwy between County Rd 113 & 176. We are currently working on getting our address updated on Google, but as of now Google will put you about and 1/8 mile north of our location. Click the link below for more detailed information on directions.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Tule Lake is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Tule Lake National Monument offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Self-Guided Tours - Auto, Museum Exhibits, and 2 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Tule Lake
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Tule Lake
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Tule Lake before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Verify Conditions: Weather and trail accessibility inside Tule Lake can change rapidly. Always verify the latest road conditions and local weather advisories before starting your trek.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Tule Lake. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Tule Lake National Monument includes both Tule Lake Segregation Center, the largest and most controversial of the sites where Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II, and Camp Tulelake, which was first a Civilian Conservation Corps camp, then an additional facility to detain Japanese Americans, and finally a prisoner of war camp.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Tule Lake
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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