Picnic area at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

There are two picnic areas at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, one at the Visitor Center and one at the parking lot for the Lava Flow Trail. There are no grills at either, and all tables are taken on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are four picnic tables at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot. Three are on the north side under some shade trees. One is on a concrete pad and is handicap accessible. A fourth table located on the gravel median in the middle of the parking lot is also shaded.

Picnic area at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

The Visitor Center has a small picnic area with five tables. Two are situated on a concrete pad and are handicap accessible. Three other tables are located behind them under some shade trees.

Visitor Center Picnic Area at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Trash and recycling bins are located at both picnic areas. Modern restrooms are available at the Visitor Center when it is open. A fancy outhouse—what Jed Clampett would call a portable toilet in a permanent building—is available year-round at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot.

Restrooms at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

After grabbing a bite to eat, you can burn some calories by hiking one of the trails at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The Lava’s Edge Trail begins across the street from the Visitor Center. Trailheads for the Lenox Crater, Bonito Vista, and Lava Flow trails are located at the Lava Flow Trail parking lot.

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