The El Malpais National Monument was created in to protect a diverse wilderness known for its vast lava fields, but forest and grassland have reclaimed some of that desolate landscape.

The adjacent El Malpais National Conservation Area extends the protected area to include the areas dramatic sandstone cliffs and canyons along with the La Ventana Natural Arch and Chain of Craters Back Country Byway.

Additionally, nearby El Morro National Monument preserves the remains of a large pueblo that was situated along a prehistoric trade route. Sitting atop a prominent mesa, the pueblo was an important landmark and stopping point for travelers into the modern era.