Tule Lake National Monument is located in Modoc County, California, approximately 50 miles southeast of Klamath Falls, Oregon. Situated on the site of the former Tule Lake Segregation Center, the monument preserves and commemorates the history of Japanese American internment during World War II.
During World War II, Tule Lake Segregation Center was one of ten War Relocation Authority camps established in the United States to detain Japanese Americans. Tule Lake, originally built as a result of Executive Order 9066, initially served as a temporary facility before being designated as a segregation center to house those deemed disloyal or considered "troublemakers." The camp reached its peak population in 1943, with over 18,000 people imprisoned within its confines.
Today, Tule Lake National Monument offers visitors a chance to learn about this dark chapter in American history. The visitor center provides educational exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal stories that shed light on the internment experience and the struggles faced by Japanese Americans during the war. Visitors can explore the remnants of the camp, including reconstructed guard towers, barracks, and an original latrine.
In addition to the historical significance of the site, there are also opportunities for recreational activities nearby. Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge, situated about 30 miles south of the monument, provides excellent birdwatching opportunities, with hundreds of bird species making the refuge their home. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife observation, and fishing in the refuge's lakes and ponds.
Lava Beds National Monument, located approximately 40 miles northwest of Tule Lake, offers visitors the chance to explore a rugged volcanic landscape. With over 700 caves, visitors can embark on ranger-led tours or self-guided explorations to witness the unique geology and delve into the region's past.
Overall, Tule Lake National Monument serves as an important reminder of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Visitors have the opportunity not only to gain a deeper understanding of this history but also to engage in outdoor activities in the nearby wildlife refuge and volcanic landscapes.
Tule Lake National Monument is located in northern California, specifically within the state's Modoc County. Positioned near the California-Oregon border, it sits within the vast expanse of the Great Basin region. The monument encompasses the ancient Tule Lake, a remnant of a prehistoric lake that once covered the larger part of the area. Surrounded by rugged volcanic landscapes and volcanic plateaus, Tule Lake National Monument benefits from its unique geographical setting. Its picturesque scenery is adorned with lava flows, cinder cones, and lava tube caves, showcasing the area's volcanic history. This location provides visitors with a remarkable opportunity to experience not only the natural beauty of the region but also the significance of its historical events as a former internment camp during World War II.
44340 Hwy 139Tuelake, CA 96134Driving DirectionsPhone: (530) 664 4015Web: Link
The best time to visit Tule Lake National Monument would be during the months of June, July, August, and September. These months have the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities with average maximum temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F and average minimum temperatures ranging from 42°F to 47°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during this period is relatively low, ranging from 0.1 in to 0.3 in.
Some of the activities you can do in Tule Lake National Monument are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Learn about these topics at Tule Lake National Monument: Asian American Heritage Wars and Conflicts Incarceration Japanese-American Internment World War II
Tule Lake National Monument visitor center will be open intermittently starting Friday, May 23. Please check the calendar for dates, times and tour availability. 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.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Tule Lake Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
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| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2025-11-14 | Visitor Center Closed for the Winter Season The visitor center is now closed for the season. Due to limited staffing, we are unable to offer tours till we reopen in the summer. For more information, please call 530-667-8119 or email us at tule_information@nps.gov. More |
| 2023-05-23 | Summer 2023 Schedule for Lava Beds and Tule Lake National Monuments Beginning on Memorial Day weekend, Lava Beds and Tule Lake National Monuments will transition to their summer schedules. More |