Amboy Crater

Amboy Crater. National Natural Landmark. , Amboy Crater, formed of ash and cinders, is 250 feet high and 15,000 feet in diameter. It is situated in one of the youngest volcanic fields in the United States. It is located in the Barstow-Bristol trough, a conspicuous west-northwest trending physiographic feature which approximately straddles the boundary between the Mojave and Sonoran tectonic blocks. This field was created by at least 4 distinct periods of eruptions, resulting in a coaxially nested group of volcanic cinder cones. The most recent eruption of Amboy Crater was approximately 10,000 years ago. The lava flows consist of basalt rich in minerals of magnesium, iron, and calcium. Upon close examination, you may be able to see minute green-colored olivine crystals. The red color indicates the presence of ferric iron and is a result of steam on heated rocks. Amboy Crater is located on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It's recent origin and its near perfect shape led to its designation as a National Natural Landmark in 1973. Facilities at the crater consist of a day use area with interpretive kiosk, four shaded picnic tables, tow vault toilets and a shaded scenic overlook of the area. Facilities and the overlook are connected by a series of concrete walkways and are all wheel-chair accessible. The closet facilities for food and gas are either in Ludlow, Ca 30 miles west of the crater or Fenner, Ca 42 miles east. Please plan your trip accordingly.